Monarch Mortgage Bill Vourazeris
Are You on the Web or Stuck in the Web?
Why is a website important? Credibility! In greater and greater numbers, consumers are searching the Internet before making their choices. They want to make sure you are legitimate and your business is solid. The Internet allows people to find out about you on their own time and on their own terms, without having any direct communication with you. Although your company may have a website, an individual website is becoming more and more important to create credibility and to differentiate yourself.
What does it need to provide? Value! This is your opportunity to give something of significance to all those who come in contact with you. Consider offering a free report to your website visitors. With a few simple Internet searches, you can find a multitude of worthwhile topics your clients would find interesting and useful. Or you could always check with me for ideas as well. There are plenty of ways we can provide interesting and relevant content.
What should it say about you? Everything possible that is good about you, and why you are their best choice! Hopefully, you already have a great collection of testimonials. If not, start collecting them immediately. With all the choices consumers have today, many look for third-party recommendations. Remember, talking about yourself is considered boasting, but when others talk about you, it's considered a compliment. Have a section dedicated to testimonials, but strategically place them throughout the site as well.
Your website should also confirm your reputation as a successful professional. Mention accomplishments, degrees, continuing education and certifications. If you have been acknowledged through awards or articles, post links to these on your site. You worked hard for these things, so let them work for you by helping to build confidence in your abilities.
Don't forget the importance of appearing personable and approachable. Stating a few things, and even posting pictures, about your personal life can have a positive influence on those browsing your site. People have a strong need to connect before making a business decision and often, common hobbies and interests are a great way to jump-start a relationship.
How do you get people to it? Every way you can! Here are a few ideas: On your e-mail signature, have a link to your website right below your name. Include the website address on your business card. Even if you currently have 1,000 business cards, if your website isn't listed, throw them away and invest in a new set that boldly displays where you can be found on the web.
If you are providing links to other sites, see if they will return the favor. This type of strategic partnership is a great way to build a presence on the Internet. The more often your site is mentioned on the web, the higher your rankings will be on search engines. This is also a great reason to comment on blogs that interest you. Just be sure to include your website address with your comment.
Every marketing piece or correspondence you develop should list your website address. Name recognition is important, so try to have the name of your website be recognizable and easy to remember. If it isn't already taken, your name (.com) is preferable. You may also want to consider using your name with "online" after it. For example, johnsmithonline.com would work well if johnsmith.com wasn't available.
Remember, people want a connection to those helping them with large decisions in their lives. Establishing a presence on the Internet strengthens your reputation and will result in greater referrals. Technology and the Internet are critical parts of almost every business these days, so your ability to utilize these and strengthen your marketing is invaluable!
If you'd like to discuss these concepts in more detail, don't hesitate to call me.
Bill Vourazeris 443-618-2880
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