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BUSINESS BUILDING ONLINE - Running a small business selling physical products from home can seem daunting, but with some simple steps, you can build an impressive online presence that looks polished and professional. Follow this guide to get your homemade business looking legit online without breaking the bank.
Choose a Domain Name and Hosting
The first step in establishing your online presence is purchasing a domain name and web hosting. Your domain name is your website address that customers will type in to find your site. Choose something short, easy to remember, and relevant to your business. For example, if you sell homemade soaps, go for something like "janeshandmadesoaps.com".
Hosting is what actually powers your website behind the scenes. There are many affordable and user-friendly options like Bluehost where you can get started with hosting for less than $5/month. Register your new domain name to your hosting service and you've got the basics covered.
Create a Website
Now it's time to make that domain name lead to an actual website. The easiest way for beginners is to use a site builder like Wix or Squarespace that allows you to make a professional-looking site by customizing pre-made templates. Spend time perfecting your design, logo, color scheme and copy to convey your brand. You want a cohesive look and message across all pages.
Set Up Social Media Accounts
A website alone won't cut it these days - you need to be on social media. Set up business accounts on platforms like Facebook, Instagram and X using your new domain name in the handle. Fill out the profiles completely and start posting product images, process videos, sales announcements and other content.
Link all your social accounts back to your website. The goal is to funnel traffic from social platforms back to your site where customers can purchase. Make sure your branding and products look consistent across all your accounts.
Start a Blog
A blog on your website allows you to showcase your products while establishing yourself as an authority in your field. Share tips, behind-the-scenes peeks, and stories related to your niche. This valuable content will help you get found by ideal customers searching for topics you cover.
Make sure to optimize blog posts for SEO with relevant keywords so they rank well in search engines. Link to your product pages or online shop within posts so readers can easily find what to purchase.
Set Up an Online Shop
The most important part of your online presence will be the ecommerce shop where customers can actually buy your homemade products. User-friendly platforms like Shopify make it easy to set up a professional looking online store. Some things to include:
· High quality photos of every product
· Detailed descriptions and specs
· Inventory tracking so customers know what's in stock
· An easy online checkout process
· Order tracking after purchase
· Refund/exchange policies
Consider offering promos like free shipping over a certain amount to incentivize purchases. Make the buying experience smooth from product page to packaged order to encourage returning customers. Use a service like Certified Mail Label tracking so customers can track their package every step of the way.
Market Your Business
With your online presence established, it's time to get the word out there! Run targeted Facebook and Instagram ads to reach potential customers. Team up with influencers in your niche to promote your products to their followers. Reach out to relevant blogs for product features and reviews.
Keep spreading the word and directing people back to your online homebase. Use promotional strategies like limited-time sales, holiday specials and email newsletters to keep customers engaged.
With these steps, you can establish a polished online presence for your homemade business that looks like an expert operation.
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