As the online marketplace grows ever more crowded, it becomes increasingly challenging for businesses to make their mark. A strong web presence is crucial to any company, and when it comes to reaching and connecting with your target audience, utilizing the internet to its full potential is key.
A professional website and a strong social media campaign are just the tip of the iceberg; here are some additional opportunities to explore that will help your business stand out.
1. Work on your image
With so much emphasis on designing a high-impact website, it’s easy to lose sight of the company logo. However, as a crucial step to forging a strong brand identity, a logo should be considered as much a part of your online image as your website.
There are many different aspects to think about when designing a logo, and the look and feel depends largely on your target audience and the brand story you wish to tell – are you seeking to convey a businesslike image, or something a little more fun? Take a look at this article for more useful pointers.
2. Secure your domain
Creating a strong brand identity goes far beyond a great visual image, and many small businesses often miss a trick when it comes to domain names. Your domain name is not only your online address, but also an advertising opportunity, and should therefore be carefully aligned with your brand name.
Top-level domains such as .restaurant or .fitness are a great way to stand out from the dozens of .com addresses already online, and to tailor your web address to your industry. Such a specific domain name also makes it easier to connect with your target audience, and with plenty of extensions available to be viewed and purchased, it is easy to buy a domain name that really sets you apart.
3. Become a knowledge source
The most competitive online businesses do not brand themselves simply as a commodity or service to be purchased. Rather, they establish themselves as a valuable resource which their customers can consult for industry insights and interesting content.
A blog is an extremely powerful tool for engaging with your audience, and can incorporate anything from news features, company updates, reviews and advice. Creating an industry hub of sorts shows that you are ahead of the curve and knowledgeable in your field – ultimately identifying you as a credible business and worthy contender.
4. Personalize your business
With so many websites to contend with, online businesses run the risk of becoming just another face in the crowd. Personal touches to your website, such as a genuine ‘About Us’ page which shares the history and background of your company, invites customers to share in your story whilst instilling a sense of trust.
Incorporating a human element enables you to overcome this anonymity and stand out from the masses as a unique and trustworthy company.
5. Break down language barriers
The beauty of the internet is that it provides a direct pathway to customers, regardless of geographical location. However, the language barrier may be more of an obstacle than many businesses realize, with a Common Sense Advisory study finding that over 70% of consumers are more likely to buy a product from a site which provides information in their own language.
Businesses really seeking to reach a wider audience can do so by catering to a variety of languages, and although website translation requires a little more work, a multilingual site can really give your business the competitive edge in an increasingly global marketplace.