5 Free Internet Advertising Methods
Writen by Amy DurhamWhether you are just starting your online business or you have an established website that needs an increase in page views, internet marketing can help you to spread the word. You can have the best product or service on the World Wide Web, but if you can't get people to your website, you might as well be selling out of the back of your car. Unfortunately, we don't all have an unlimited marketing budget. So for those of you with limited assets or just an overly zealous accountant, here are five tips for free advertising online:
Search Engine Submission -- When you created your website, chances are that your hosting company offered you a deal on search engine submission. If you're hosting your own site, you can do most of this work yourself. Avoid any services online that promise to flood the internet with your site listing for a fee. Most of the sites they contact are too small to help you much. Instead, submit your site to the major search engines and to niche search sites, such as those for geographical areas or specific industries.
Links -- Be sure to include a links page on your website. This is the place to link to sites that will be helpful to your customers. For example, if you sell gardening products, link to relevant sites such as yard services, exterminators, or patio furniture retailers.
Blogs -- You've heard the word and you may have seen a few before, but you may not know that blogs are the new way to spread the word on the internet. You can update your site by keeping an online journal. Tell customers about news, updated products, and tips for success. Post often to increase your ranking in search engine results for the topics you address.
Newsletter -- Whether you turn your blog into a newsletter or use a separate service, keeping in touch with your customers on a regular basis is a great way to keep your brand in their minds. Add a sign-up box on every page of your website, and be sure the newsletter is informative and valuable, not just filled with ads for new products. Include professionally written articles so customers will pass on the newsletter to others.
Viral Marketing -- Viral marketing is simply the sale of products online to promote your website and brand. Ebooks, free samples, and mini-courses are all ways in which you can promote your site by offering quality items to your potential customers. Include links to your site and references to your services in the ebooks and courses, but don't be heavy handed. Hire a professional freelance writer to compile your expertise in an ebook and place strategic links throughout the text.
For more great free marketing ideas, check out the sequel to this article: "5 More Free Internet Advertising Methods."
Moo Juice Media offers a professional copywriter for all your business needs. Amy Durham is an Emmy Award-winning freelance writer specializing in business, IT, home design, and finance. She writes expert articles for websites, magazines, newsletters, blogs, and ebooks. Visit http://www.MooJuiceMedia.com for a free consultation today!
