In today’s world, having an online presence is essential for any business. Going online can help you reach more people, build trust, and connect with customers.
If your small business is not online yet, don’t worry — it’s easier than you think. Here are four simple steps to get started.
Best of all, these steps are free, only costing your time.
1. Create a Google Presence
Getting your business on Google is a crucial first step. Here’s how.
- Set up Google My Business (GMB). Create a free Google My Business account. This helps your business show up in local search results and on Google Maps. Fill out your profile with your business name, address, phone number, website, hours of operation, and photos.
- Optimize your listing. Make sure your information is accurate and up-to-date. Use keywords that describe your business to help people find you. Regularly update your profile with new photos, posts, and offers.
- Engage with customers. Respond to reviews and messages quickly. Positive interactions on GMB can improve your reputation and attract more customers.
Start here to create your Google presence
2. Create a Facebook Business Page
As the world’s most popular social platform, Facebook is a great way to reach potential customers. If you have a personal profile on Facebook, having a separate business page is a good idea.
- Set up your page. Go to Facebook and create a business page. Then, fill in all the necessary details, like your business name, contact information, website, and a brief description of your products or services.
- Add profile and cover photos. Use high-quality images for your profile and cover photos. These should reflect your brand and look professional.
- Complete your profile with a call to action. Add a call-to-action button, like “Call Now” or “Shop Now,” to make it easy for customers to interact with your business.
- Develop your content strategy. Post regularly about your business, including updates, promotions, events, and behind-the-scenes content. Interesting posts can help you build a community around your brand.
Start here to set up your Facebook business page
3. Post on Social Media Consistently
Consistency is key for a strong social media presence. Once you decide which platform(s) to use, you need to post regularly.
- Create a content calendar. Plan your posts in advance to ensure you have a steady stream of content. Mix up your posts with promotional content, informative posts, customer stories, and interactive content like polls or Q&A sessions.
- Engage with your audience. Respond to comments and messages quickly. Interaction helps build a sense of community and makes customers feel valued.
- Use visuals. High-quality photos and videos can boost engagement. Show off your products, share customer stories, or give a glimpse into your business operations.
- Leverage stories and live videos. Use features like Stories and live streaming on platforms like Facebook and Instagram to engage your audience in real-time and share more personal and dynamic content.
4. Utilize Customer Reviews
Customer reviews are very influential and can enhance your online reputation.
- Encourage reviews. Ask happy customers to leave reviews on your Google My Business page, Facebook, and other review sites. Provide clear instructions on how to do so.
- Showcase positive reviews. Share good reviews on your website and social media channels. This builds credibility and encourages others to share their positive experiences.
- Respond to reviews. Always respond to reviews, whether they are positive or negative. Thank customers for positive feedback and address any issues raised in negative reviews professionally and quickly. Showing that you care about customer satisfaction can turn a negative experience into a positive one.
Get tips for responding to customer reviews
Make Sure Customers Find You Online
An online presence is essential to reach more customers and connect with them effectively. By creating a Google presence, setting up a Facebook business page, posting consistently on social media, and using customer reviews, you can establish a strong online foundation.
This will help you attract new customers and keep existing ones happy. Follow these steps and watch your business grow in the digital world.
Having any trouble following these steps? Reach out to the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center, and we would be happy to help get you on the right track as you create your online presence.
