Free speech in the US includes just about anything that isn’t libelous, slanderous, or inciting a crime. That’s a pretty wide field. So when just about anything goes, wouldn’t you like to know what people are saying about you? Wouldn’t you like to influence what is said about you online?
Get There First– Have you heard the expression that the best offense is a great defense? Well, it holds true on the web. I recommend to clients who plan to go “big” online that they post their information and stories online before others do. Taking the lead in launching your online information means that you have first choice in domain names, the ability to launch profiles on top-searched sites like Wikipedia, and choose the phrasing that you want attached to you, your product, or your unique services.
Spread the Good Word– Social Media to the rescue! This is another area where it pays to be first in line if you want to get an account ID that is either your name or business name. By nature Social Media is has an exponential effect – you tell your friends, your friends tell friends, and the word spreads. If you aren’t using Social Media to get out your message, you’re also missing the boat to spread the positive information and message you want people to find about your business.
Build Links to You– It’s a good idea to list your website in directories that reflect the area you service or fit the category of your products or services. This strategy helps web visitors find you in the search engines, but it also means that when searched people are finding additional profiles created and managed by you. Again, visitors find you and the message you want them to associate with you, not your competitors sites or negative comments.
Manage Your Online Profile– We recommend to our clients that they keep an eye on what others are saying about them online. This isn’t paranoia, but a very savvy business strategy. When clients Google themselves they may be surprised to find their text has been lifted and used by other websites without permission. You may find opportunities to list your site in directories that have located your business and are waiting for you to claim your account.
Don’t forget Twitter and Facebook where sometimes your first notices of a bad customer experience is a Tweet or a posting to your Wall—look at it as an opportunity to pull out remarkable customer service and turn around a bad experience.
When you choose Design to Spec as your partner, you’ll hear about the best ways to build brand awareness online and see how to ensure your business gets found online.
