Free WebsitesThere are many "do it yourself" type website services out there, and for those who have the time and experience you can establish a basic website for FREE at sites such as Yola. For example, I purchased my URL from godaddy.com for $9.95 per year. I then built my site on Yola using their free templates, and I receive free hosting. So far, no problems with Yola and they provide many free tools, such as blogs and SEO submissions for basic sites. I also used Yola to build sites for www.campn.org. Wordpress is also another free way to establish on online presence, and they have an extensive community of users who share ideas and tools for ongoing website enhancements. Inexpensive WebsitesI also manage the www.nvfoodforthought.org site using Intuit's Homestead tool. Again, free design templates are included. Hosting is as low as $4.95 per month and you can easily include a link to PayPal. The Homestead SiteBuilder is a downloadable program that allows you to manage your site in more detail. Both Yola and Homestead offer additional features (at a cost, of course!) such as online stores for retail-oriented sites. Plus you can pay a little more for more customized design templates. If you need help building an inexpensive website, feel free to contact me for more information. Professional WebsitesFor websites that require custom designs or extensive functionality, such as database integration, you'll want to hire the pros. Contact me if you need an experienced marketer to lead your next website project. Search Engine Optimization (SEO)A good site to visit for free SEO and other website analysis tools is Sitesubmit. However, a well planned SEO strategy is best developed and managed by someone who understands all of the different elements, tools, and opportunities specific to your business. Contact me if you need a pro to design and manage your search engine optimization. EmarketingEmail blasts and enewsletters are an excellent way to keep your target audience informed and engaged. Many new website packages include easy and integrated emarketing tools. Services such as Constant Contact are also an affordable and effective way to utilize electronic marketing communications. For more information about developing, implementing, and managing your online marketing program, contact me today! Marketing Through Social NetworkingPerhaps one of today's most inexpensive yet misunderstood marketing tools is through free social networking sites, such as LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and many, many others. Are they worth the time and effort. It depends on your business, your audience, and the amount of time you're willing to devote. To learn more about your social media/network marketing, contact me, or read my Social Networking Resources.
© 2011 Kerstin Plemel, Marketing Communications
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