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Are You a Digital Slowpoke?
All the time I hear laments from folks who barely have a website running, who haven't a clue how to start a blog (or a Facebook page, or a Twitter feed, and so on), and who are grappling with the essential question of whether they should do any of it. What advice would you give someone who is a "digital slowpoke?" Or maybe I'm describing you? Here are six simple things you can do now to catch up.
1. Create a solid Web presence using one of several free website development tools (for non-geeks) like Weebly, Wix, Webs, Yola.com, or Flavors.me. For a stupid-easy solution, use blog software from WordPress to set up your main Web page. 2. Open the door to interaction by including an obvious way for people to get in touch with you. Some companies rely on contact forms, but I much prefer an actual email address that belongs to an actual person because it signals that you are approachable and willing to engage. 3. Start a database. A customer and prospect list is key to any kind of successful engagement. Even a simple spreadsheet will do. 4. Start publishing. Start a newsletter for your customers or your vendors. Launch a blog and commit to refreshing it two or three times per week. Use a simple Flip camera to create customer testimonial videos onsite, at tradeshows and events. Upload them to YouTube. Use Flickr to catalog fun and interesting photos of your business, staff and customers at work, and feature them on your site. Showcase photos and videos on your main site.
5. DIY. While getting outside help to kick-start your efforts may be helpful, don't cede your publishing or social media management completely to consultants or (please!) interns. The best way to learn how to master social channels is to first wade in yourself. 6. Check out MarketingProfs resources, particularly our The Slowpoke's Guide to Digital Marketing , which takes you through four easy steps to help you catch up and this Thursday's Pro seminar Social Media Slowpokes: It's Not too Late to Connect with Your Customers Online. There's plenty more you can do to catch up, of course. But the first step is to do something. Today is as good a day as any to start, right?
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