Five Ways to a Successful Small Business

July 30, 2014

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The key to a successful business is………

Well, if you are like me, I have read numerous articles that tell you how to run a successful business. But what many are leaving out, is that the internet itself holds many potential make or break solutions for businesses. The best part is, is that you can acheive many of these at 50-90% off normal prices, and in some cases, get a better job done. We have compiled a list of 5 great online ideas that can certainly boost any business.

Get Services Done Online
– There are many services you can get done online for a business. Some of them include: Advertising, Audio & Video, Graphic Design, Photography, Virtual Assistant, and more.
The best places to look for some of these include: Craigslist, Google & Yahoo (for advertising), and our favorite, Fiverr®. At Fiverr®, you can find many of the services you need or could use for as little as just $5!
Here are a few live examples of the great things you can find at Fiverr®:
I provide 600 words professional content, one free-use image, and a Copyscape Premium report showing originality for only $5
I will make your perfect logo with icon within 24hrs for $5
Marketing Your Business Online

– There are many ways to market your business online. Although the basic marketing tips I will mention are easy in theory, executing them effectively can be very difficult. I have put together the best places to get started for small to mid-size businesses.
You need a website! – One of the most basic steps for starting an Internet marketing campaign is to create a website. If you don’t have a website or have a poorly designed website, you should consider creating or redesigning a website to adequately market your products or services. Godaddy is a great place to get it done, but only if you have someone that can help you get your website built and operational. Otherwise, small places like Wisconsin Web Services can get it all done for you within your budget.
Email Marketing – You should not dismiss offering an email newsletter list. It is a great way to reach out to interested consumers that sign up for news, as well as possible upcoming deals and specials. Mail Chimp is the best free place to start for a small to mid sized business.
Social Marketing – Utilizing Social Networks can be the easiest way to reach new or mass amounts of people that are always online via computer or a mobile device (phone/tablet. etc.). – *See our Social Marketing is a Must (below)
Search Engine Optimization – Having your website optimized for search engines to find you and keep finding you and making you easily found for you specific keywords or topics can be difficult. Again, websites like Fiverr®, or a company like Wisconsin Web Services would be a great start for any SEO marketing or optimization.
Social Marketing is a Must
– Social media networks is one of the easiest ways a business owner can promote their brand online. Social media websites provide a forum for Internet users who share a common interest to share information related to that subject or just to socialize. The basic ‘GOTO’ social networks are: Facebook, Google+, and Twitter. We also highly recommend: Flicker, Pinterest, and Stumbleupon. Need help? Wisconsin Web Services can help with all your Social Networks.
Coupons, Deals, and Discounts
– Don’t be afraid to offer a coupon, discount or deal online for your business. Many business have increased their sales, as well as their long term customers by offering a deal online. Websites like Groupon, Living Social, and Found in magazine (for the Midwest), are great places to ‘run a deal’ while promoting to the masses.
Your Very Own Website
– Even though we mentioned this under the Marketing Your Business Online section, we needed to mention it again! You need to be found when people look for your products or services online or from their mobile device.
If you do not have experience in web design, there are low cost solutions that can be found online. However, hiring a web designer can be worthwhile because he or she can get your website done while in communication with you to make sure it is done the way you want it. Wisconsin Web Services is a great place to go for small to mid size business to get a website.