Author: Nate Moller

Categories
Website How To's

Do I Really Need a Blog for an Ecommerce Business?

I’ve worked with thousands of clients who are looking to start an online business, particularly ecommerce based, and I’ve heard this very question over and over again.

I have to admit, it is a valid question, one that caused me to reflect on the concept and ask myself, “Why do I really blog for my eCommerce site anyway?”

To help us answer this question, let’s first review what blogging really is.

Wikipedia explains blogs in the following way:

A blog is a user-generated website where entries are made in journal style and displayed in a reverse chronological order. Blogs often provide commentary or news on a particular subject, such as food, politics, or local news; some function as more personal online diaries. A typical blog combines text, images, and links to other blogs, web pages, and other media related to its topic. The ability for readers to leave comments in an interactive format is an important part of most early blogs. Most blogs are primarily textual although some focus on photographs (photo-blog), sketch-blog, videos (vlog), or audio (podcasting), and are part of a wider network of social media. The term “blog” is derived from “Web log.” “Blog” can also be used as a verb, meaning to maintain or add content to a blog. As of November 2006, blog search engine Technorati was tracking nearly 60 million blogs.

Other explanations I’ve heard about blogs include “online journal”, “digital newspaper”, and “web logs”.

bloggingWhy are blogs so important when it comes to eCommerce?

Isn’t a blog just something else you have to work on and spend time doing? You bethya! However, the return on investment of a blog can come in a variety of ways.

4 Reasons Why Blogging is for eCommerce

  1. Free (or very inexpensive) Targeted Advertising: there are many free options out there. My favorites are wordpress.com and blogger.com. I use both of them but lean more and more to wordpress.com because of all the functionality. Having multiple blogs, in relation to your website, can be so helpful: it’s a way to build additional quality links – ways that search engines can find your website.  As you make posts on your blog, you can create anchor links to specific pages of your new website using keyword phrases. This is off-site advertising at its best! If you want even better recognition, purchase a domain name from GoDaddy and get your blog hosted for a low monthly fee.
  2. Build Industry Credibility: the more quality information you post about products, services, and information within your industry, the more your visitors (and potential buyers) can see that you know what you’re talking about; they can trust in the products you are offering. Without content and quality information to back up buying decisions, buyers will probably look elsewhere.
  3. Affiliate Marketing Opportunities: blogs can give you a few different ways to actually make money in addition to selling products online. The first is through Google Adsense, a pay-per-click campaign that makes money as visitors click on the advertising links. Google Adsense is free to set up and can be a great supplemental income to your business plan, at least to start. Other affiliate marketing campaigns on blogs can be product reviews with companies like CJ.com and Amazon.com. Sign up for these free accounts and start applying for affiliates within your industry or that compliment what you are doing. The pay may not be as good as getting products at a wholesale price and reselling at a retail price, but at least you give yourself the opportunity to make money (and there’s no cost).
  4. Your eCommerce Competitors are Blogging: that’s right, your competitors are probably blogging right now so you better take this post serious and start blogging too! Not only does blogging show that you know what you’re talking about in your industry, but it’s also very helpful for search engine optimization purposes too. Some of my biggest masses of traffic to my eCommerce store have come due to blog posts I’ve done about industry news. As potential clients searched for these topics in Google, guess who’s blog post they found at the top of the page? Not only did this help build my brand and reputation online, but these same blog posts had a direct connection with increased sales on my eCommerce site.

If you haven’t been blogging for your eCommerce website yet, don’t worry, there’s still time. Many business just seem to be getting the hang of blogging and doing it on a more consistent basis. The best recommendation I can give you as a new eCommerce blogger is to make sure you remember the key word for effective blogging – Consistency:

  • How often you post – whether it’s once a day, week, or whatever, it’s important that you post new information on a consistent basis if you want readers to come back.
  • What you write about– if you have questions about this see my post about the importance of focus.
  • Anchor links – we don’t want to overdo the anchor links to our website, but it’s important to make keyword links to other pages (deep linking)
  • Product Reviews – if you are selling products on your website, it’s a good idea to do reviews from time to time – tell visitors why your products are better than the competition (use testimonials and feedback from clients)
  • Posting to other people’s blogs – find blogs you like that relate to what you are marketing and make good comments, asked to guest post, and get them involved in what you do too.

I’ve been running multiple eCommerce businesses for almost 5 years now, have taught hundreds of clients about starting an online business, and there’s one thing that’s  certain – an eCommerce business without a blogging strategy is leaving money on the table for a competitor to put in his or her pocket.

How do I turn my blog in to a money-making machine in addition to running my eCommerce website?

A common question with many answers.  Let’s discuss a few.

The main key to eCommerce Blogging Success: CONSISTENCY.

Six Consistent Keys to eCommerce Blogging Success

1. Frequency

You don’t have to be a blogging fanatic if you’re just getting started.  Whether it’s once a day, once a week, or whatever, it’s important that you post new information on a consistent basis if you want readers to come back.  If Sports Center didn’t come on every evening at 10:00 p.m., I’d be pretty upset and would have to watch one of their competitors broadcast (not sure who but you get the point).

2. Topic

One of my biggest pet peeves with blogs, especially well established ones, is when they jump all over the place with different topics, randomness, or just flat out STUPID content.  Always try to tie your blog posts back to one or two specific themes.  Specializing is so important in today’s world of “free information”.

3. Links

For most, this is a no-brainer.  But if you’re new to blogging, you need to remember that a blog post without a link to another post on your website is pointless.  Deep linking (inner linking on your website) is a great benefit, both to readers and also to search engines.  One of my favorite wordpress plugins is the Related Posts.  It creates automatic “deep links” based on the content of your blog posts.  We don’t want to overdo the anchor links on our blog posts, but it’s important to make keyword links to other related pages.  It’s also very beneficial for your reputation to include links to other articles you’ve read that relate (a bit of “link love”).

4. Reviews

If you are selling products on your website, it’s a good idea to do reviews from time to time – tell visitors why your products are better than the competition (use testimonials and feedback from clients).  Side by side comparisons can work wonders for a blog that’s promoting products.  Interviews can also work wonders.

5. Comments

One common question I get from new bloggers: “How do I find blogs in my industry?” or “I don’t think there are any blogs in my industry.”  GOOGLE IT!  Go to http://google.com/blogsearch to find blogs that relate to what you are marketing.  Subscribe to them and make good comments (ie. add value to the post, disagree, share an experience that relates, etc).  Quality comments on a well known blog can greatly build your credibility as a new member in the industry.

6. Networking

Social media is obvious.  Twitter, Facebook, and StumbleUpon are great places to start.  I recently shared the following “break-through” ideas 🙂 with a semi-new online marketer:

A few ways to “network” with bloggers in your industry:

  • Offer to do a “Guest Post” on their blog
  • Write an article that’s informative and share it with them to publish on their site or in their forum
  • Offer them a “Revenue Sharing Opportunity” if they will help you sell your products to their clients
  • Have them send a dedicated email to their database promoting what you do

To many, these concepts may seem second nature, nothing we haven’t heard before.  However, what I’ve found is that even the most “basic concepts” often get overlooked.

Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out. – Robert Collier

Best of luck at you blog your way to the bank with your eCommerce Business!

Like Ralph Waldo Emerson once said:

That which we persist in doing becomes easier, not that the nature of the task itself has becomes easier, but that our ability to perform it has increased.

What are your thoughts about blogging for an eCommerce business?

Nate Moller has been teaching clients about how to start an online business for almost five years. He consults small to medium sized business, helping them establish and implement a blogging & social media marketing strategy to grow their business. Read more about Nate at MollerMarketing.com and follow him on Twitter (@mollermarketing).

Categories
Digital Presence & Marketing Strategy

Digital Marketing in Utah: The Comprehensive Guide

Welcome to WEB801, your trusted partner for web design and digital marketing solutions in Utah.

As a business owner, you know the importance of a strong online presence. To help you navigate the ever-evolving landscape of website design and digital marketing, we’re here to address your top five questions.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide you with insights and actionable answers to empower your business for online success.

To help you sort through all the potential chaos of web design & online marketing, here’s a simple breakdown:

1. How Can a Well-Designed Website Impact My Business?

Website Design: A Game-Changer

Your website is often the first impression potential customers have of your business. A well-designed website can be a game-changer, and here’s how:

Boosting Credibility: An attractive and professional website instills trust in your audience. It reflects a commitment to quality, which can significantly impact a potential customer’s decision.

Enhancing User Experience: A well-structured and user-friendly website is essential for keeping visitors engaged. Easy navigation, clear information, and a smooth experience contribute to a positive user experience.

Driving Conversions: Your website’s design can have a direct impact on conversion rates. Elements like clear calls to action, strategically placed buttons, and persuasive content can turn visitors into loyal customers.

WEB801 specializes in creating impactful websites that align with your brand, industry, and target audience. Our team focuses on design elements that prioritize both aesthetics and functionality.

2. What Are the Key Elements of an Effective Website Design?

The Recipe for Success

A successful website design comprises several essential elements that work together to create a seamless and engaging user experience:

Mobile Responsiveness: In an era dominated by mobile devices, it’s crucial that your website is optimized for all screen sizes. A responsive design ensures that your site looks and functions well on smartphones, tablets, and desktops.

Engaging Content: High-quality content is the lifeblood of your website. From compelling copy to eye-catching images and videos, content keeps visitors interested and informed.

User-Friendly Navigation: Intuitive navigation is critical for guiding visitors through your site. Easy-to-use menus, logical page layouts, and clear calls to action all contribute to a user-friendly experience.

Visual Appeal: A visually appealing design not only catches the eye but also reflects positively on your brand. Your website should incorporate your branding elements, color schemes, and imagery that resonate with your target audience.

WEB801’s design experts understand the importance of these elements and tailor your website to meet your specific goals. We go the extra mile to ensure mobile responsiveness, craft engaging content, and create a visually appealing design that leaves a lasting impression.

3. How Can Digital Marketing Benefit My Business?

Digital Marketing Unleashed

Digital marketing is a powerful tool to grow your business in the digital age. Here’s how it can benefit your business:

Expanding Your Reach: With digital marketing, you can target a global audience or specific demographics, allowing you to reach potential customers who are genuinely interested in your products or services.

Increasing Brand Awareness: Through consistent online presence and strategic marketing efforts, digital marketing helps build a recognizable brand identity, making your business memorable to your audience.

Driving Traffic*: One of the primary goals of digital marketing is to attract visitors to your website through various online channels. The more targeted and relevant your traffic is, the higher the chances of conversion.

Generating Leads: An effective digital marketing strategy not only drives traffic but also converts that traffic into potential customers. This process involves nurturing leads through the buyer’s journey.

Digital marketing is a multifaceted approach that includes various strategies, tactics, and channels. At WEB801, we offer a range of digital marketing services to help you achieve these goals effectively, whether it’s through search engine optimization (SEO), social media marketing, pay-per-click advertising (PPC), or email marketing.

4. Which Digital Marketing Strategies Are Right for My Business?

Choosing the Right Path

The most effective digital marketing strategies for your business depend on several factors, including your goals, target audience, industry, and budget. Here’s a brief overview of some popular digital marketing options:

Search Engine Optimization (SEO): SEO involves optimizing your website to improve its visibility in search engine results. This strategy is essential for organic growth and long-term success.

Social Media Marketing: Social media platforms provide an excellent opportunity to connect with your audience, build a community of loyal customers, and promote your products or services.

Pay-Per-Click (PPC) Advertising: PPC allows you to drive immediate traffic to your website through paid advertisements. It’s a versatile strategy that can be highly targeted to your audience.

Email Marketing: Email marketing is an effective way to nurture leads, maintain customer relationships, and drive sales. It’s particularly useful for engaging with your existing customer base.

Content Marketing: Content marketing involves creating and sharing valuable, relevant content to attract and engage your target audience. It’s an excellent way to establish authority and build trust within your industry.

The right strategy or combination of strategies will depend on your unique business needs and goals. WEB801 specializes in creating customized digital marketing plans to ensure that your strategy aligns with your objectives.

5. How Can I Measure the Success of My Website and Digital Marketing Efforts?

The Metrics That Matter

Measuring the effectiveness of your website and digital marketing campaigns is crucial to understanding their impact. Key performance indicators (KPIs) are essential for evaluating the success of your efforts. Here are some of the metrics you should consider:

Website Traffic: Monitoring the number of visitors to your site and their behavior can help you understand how well your website is performing. Metrics like page views, time spent on site, and bounce rate provide valuable insights.

Conversion Rate: The conversion rate measures the percentage of visitors who take a specific action on your website, such as signing up for your newsletter, making a purchase, or filling out a contact form. Tracking and improving your conversion rate is essential for optimizing your website’s performance.

Return on Investment (ROI): Calculating the ROI of your digital marketing efforts is crucial for understanding the value gained from your investments. ROI helps you determine which strategies are most cost-effective.

Social Media Engagement: On social media platforms, metrics such as likes, shares, comments, and click-through rates are indicative of how well your content resonates with your audience. Social media engagement metrics help you gauge your success on these platforms.

WEB801 provides detailed analytics reports and insights to help you understand the impact of your digital presence. We work with you to set clear KPIs and measure the success of your website and digital marketing efforts, making data-driven adjustments to achieve your business goals.

Ready to Create a Strong Online Presence?

Schedule a free intro call with our team and we’ll talk through your specific goals!

BOOK INTRO CALL

Conclusion

WEB801 is your dedicated partner for creating a compelling online presence that drives business growth. We understand that in today’s digital world, a well-designed website and effective digital marketing are essential for success. Our commitment is to help you succeed in the digital landscape, whether through website design that leaves a lasting impression or digital marketing strategies that drive real results.

Ready to take your business to the next level? Contact WEB801 today at https://web801.com and let us help you harness the power of website design and digital marketing. Our team of experts is here to assist you in creating a strong online presence that leads to business success.

In conclusion, by addressing these essential questions about website design and digital marketing, you

Categories
Website Performance & Design

When (and WHY) Should a Business Update Their Website?

Your website serves as the digital face of your business, often forming the first impression potential customers have of your brand.

In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, having an up-to-date and user-friendly website is not just an option; it’s a necessity.

But how do you know when it’s time for a website makeover?

In this blog post, we’ll explore the telltale signs and key considerations that indicate when a business should consider updating their website.

From staying current with design trends to ensuring optimal functionality and performance, we’ll guide you through the important decision-making process to keep your online presence as vibrant and engaging as your business itself.

Top Reasons a Business Should Update the Design of Their Website

A fresh, modern design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a strategic move to enhance user experience, improve functionality, and stay competitive in the digital marketplace.

Some of the top reasons why a business should update the design of their website:

1. Improve user experience

A modern website design can improve user experience, making it easier for customers to navigate, find what they are looking for, and make a purchase or inquiry.

2. Stay current with web design trends

Web design trends are constantly evolving, and updating your website design can help you stay current and relevant in the eyes of your audience.

3. Increase website speed

A modern website design can optimize page loading times and improve website performance, which can lead to better search engine rankings and increased traffic.

4. Mobile optimization

With the rise of mobile devices, it is essential that your website design is optimized for mobile use. This will ensure that your website looks great and is easy to use on all devices.

5. Branding and image

A modern website design can help reinforce your brand image and convey a professional and up-to-date image to your customers.

6. Competitor analysis

Updating your website design can help you stay ahead of your competition by ensuring that your website looks better and offers a superior user experience.

7. Better conversion rates

A modern website design can help improve your website’s conversion rate by making it easier for customers to take action and make a purchase or inquiry.

8. Improved accessibility

A modern website design can ensure that your website is accessible to all users, including those with disabilities, which can help you reach a wider audience.

Overall, updating your website design is essential to staying current, improving user experience, and remaining competitive in today’s digital landscape.

How often should a company update their business website design?

The frequency with which a company should update their business website design depends on several factors, including the industry, the target audience, and the website’s goals.

However, in general, a website should be updated every 2-3 years to ensure that it stays up-to-date with the latest design trends, technological advancements, and user behavior changes.

Here are a few indicators that suggest it may be time to update your website design:

1. Your website looks outdated

If your website looks old-fashioned and doesn’t reflect your brand’s current identity, it may be time for a redesign.

2. Your website is not mobile-friendly

With more and more people accessing the web on mobile devices, it’s crucial that your website is mobile-optimized. If it isn’t, you may be losing out on potential customers.

3. Your website has a high bounce rate

If your website’s bounce rate is high, it may be an indication that users are having difficulty navigating or finding the information they need. A redesign can help improve user experience and reduce bounce rates.

4. Your website is slow

If your website takes too long to load, it may negatively impact user experience and search engine rankings. A redesign can help optimize page speed and improve website performance.

5. Your competitors have updated their websites

If your competitors have updated their website designs and you haven’t, you may be at a disadvantage. It’s important to keep up with the latest trends and advancements in web design to remain competitive.

Your website has the potential to be an EMPLOYEE of your business. If you’re employee never showered or showed up in the same clothes day after day, how would that look for your business?

Not great!

For this reason alone, it’s important to regularly evaluate your website’s design and update it as necessary to ensure that it remains relevant, user-friendly, and competitive in your industry.

The effectiveness of updating a business website for design

Case Study: MightySkins

MightySkins is a company that offers high-quality vinyl skins and protective cases for electronic devices such as phones, laptops, and gaming consoles. In 2019, MightySkins decided to update their website design to improve user experience, increase conversions, and stay ahead of their competition.

The redesign involved a complete overhaul of the website’s visual appearance and navigation, including:

  • Simplifying the navigation menu to make it more user-friendly and intuitive.
  • Adding high-quality product images and videos to showcase the products’ features and benefits.
  • Improving the website’s load speed to enhance user experience and search engine rankings.
  • Making the website mobile-responsive to cater to users who access the website on their mobile devices.

After the redesign, MightySkins saw a significant improvement in their website’s performance. Here are some of the results:

  • 31% increase in overall revenue: The redesign led to an increase in sales and revenue for the company, which they attributed to the improved user experience and more streamlined purchasing process.
  • 42% increase in mobile traffic: With the new mobile-responsive design, MightySkins saw a significant increase in mobile traffic to their website, which translated into more sales and revenue.
  • 17% decrease in bounce rate: The simplified navigation menu, improved load speed, and high-quality product images and videos contributed to a decrease in the website’s bounce rate, which meant that more users were staying on the site longer and exploring the products.
  • Improved search engine rankings: The improved load speed and mobile-responsiveness contributed to a higher search engine ranking, which meant that MightySkins was getting more organic traffic to their website.

Overall, the redesign of MightySkins’ website had a positive impact on their business, with increased revenue, improved user experience, and better search engine rankings. By staying current with the latest design trends and catering to their users’ needs, MightySkins was able to stay ahead of their competition and achieve their business goals.

Beware of Disrupting Website User Experience with Deisgn Updates

Why is it important to not update the overall flow of a website while updating the design?

It is important to not update the overall flow of a website while updating the design because changing the flow of the website can confuse users and negatively impact their user experience.

The flow of a website refers to the sequence of actions that users take as they navigate through the website to accomplish their goals, such as finding information, making a purchase, or filling out a form.

Users are accustomed to a certain flow when they visit a website and if that flow is changed significantly, they may become disoriented, frustrated, and may even leave the website without accomplishing their intended task.

This is because users have developed mental models of how websites work, and when a website’s flow is changed, it violates their expectations, making it difficult for them to achieve their goals.

Instead, website redesigns should focus on improving the website’s aesthetics, functionality, and user experience, while maintaining the existing flow of the website.

This can be achieved through a variety of design techniques, such as updating the color scheme, typography, and imagery, and improving the website’s responsiveness and accessibility.

By maintaining the existing flow of the website, users can continue to accomplish their goals efficiently and effectively, while also enjoying an improved user experience. This can lead to increased user engagement, better conversion rates, and ultimately, increased business success.

Design Updates & User Experience Awareness

When it comes to updating the design of a website, it’s essential to keep user experience (UX) in mind throughout the process.

UX refers to the overall experience that users have when interacting with a website, and it plays a critical role in determining whether they will return to the site in the future, recommend it to others, or make a purchase.

Here are some of the top design updates that can improve UX:

1. Simplify Navigation

Navigation is the backbone of any website. Updating the navigation menu to make it simple, intuitive, and easy to use can make it easier for users to find the information they need and accomplish their goals on the website.

A clear and concise navigation menu can also reduce confusion, frustration, and bounce rates.

2. Improve Layout

The layout of a website is crucial for usability and readability. Updating the layout to include ample white space, clear headings, and visual hierarchy can improve the readability of the content, making it easier for users to scan and understand the information presented.

3. Optimize for Mobile

With the increasing use of mobile devices to access the web, it’s crucial to optimize a website for mobile users.

Updating the design to be mobile-responsive ensures that the website can be easily accessed and navigated on small screens, improving user experience for mobile users.

4. Enhance Visual Appeal

The visual design of a website can influence how users perceive the website and the brand it represents.

Updating the design to reflect the latest design trends, using high-quality imagery and videos, and choosing a color scheme that aligns with the brand’s identity can improve the website’s visual appeal and make it more engaging for users.

5. Use Consistent Branding

Consistent branding across a website helps to establish a brand’s identity, making it more recognizable and memorable for users. Updating the design to ensure consistent branding across all pages, including colors, fonts, and imagery, can help reinforce the brand identity and create a more cohesive user experience.

6. Include Better CTAs (Calls to Action)

Effective calls to action (CTAs) are the lifeblood of a successful website.

They act as digital signposts, guiding visitors toward the actions you want them to take, whether it’s making a purchase, subscribing to your newsletter, or scheduling a consultation.

CTAs serve as the bridge between your website’s content and its conversion goals, turning passive visitors into engaged customers.

A well-crafted CTA can transform a casual browser into a loyal client, providing a clear and compelling path to engagement.

Having good CTAs isn’t just important; it’s essential for maximizing the impact of your web presence, driving conversions, and ultimately, achieving your business objectives.

Updating the design of a website with user experience in mind can lead to a more engaging and enjoyable experience for users, ultimately leading to increased customer satisfaction, retention, and loyalty.

By focusing on improving usability, readability, mobile responsiveness, visual appeal, and consistent branding, businesses can create a website that meets the needs and expectations of their users.

What are the Average Cost of Business Website Design Updates?

The cost of a website design update can vary greatly depending on the complexity of the project, the size of the website, and the specific needs of the business.

In general, a simple website design update can cost anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. This may include updating the color scheme, typography, imagery, and layout of the website.

More complex website design updates, such as a complete overhaul of the website’s structure, user interface, or functionality, can cost tens of thousands of dollars or more.

This may include a redesign of the website’s navigation, content, and information architecture, as well as the integration of new features, such as e-commerce functionality or interactive elements.

It’s important to keep in mind that the cost of a website design update should also include ongoing maintenance and support, as well as any additional costs associated with hosting, security, and backups.

Ultimately, the cost of a website design update will depend on a variety of factors, and it’s best to consult with the WEB801 team to get a more accurate estimate based on the specific needs and goals of the business.

Categories
Digital Presence & Marketing Strategy

How To Transfer BIG FILES Easily – FREE TOOL!

Have you ever wanted to email a big file, maybe a high resolution logo or video file, but then you get a notification saying the file is too big?

This is frustrating!

We deal with this all the time as clients are trying to send us images, logos, videos and other assets for their new business website.

Good news though -there’s an easy solution!

WeTransfer! 

WeTransfer allows you to generate a shareable download link for your uploaded files without entering an email address.

This can be useful when you want to share files with someone quickly without requiring their email address.

Here’s how to get a download link instead of entering an email:

How to Use WeTransfer

Step 1: Upload Your Files

  1. Visit the WeTransfer website: https://wetransfer.com.
  2. Click the large “+” sign on the homepage to start the upload process.
  3. Select the files you want to upload from your computer.

Step 2: Set Transfer Options

  1. After selecting your files, you’ll be taken to the transfer options screen.
  2. Here, you can provide your email address (optional) and a message (optional) as mentioned in the previous tutorial.

Step 3: Generate a Download Link

  1. Below the recipient’s email address field, you’ll see a switch labeled “Email.” By default, it’s turned on, indicating that you need to enter an email address.
  2. To get a download link instead of entering an email, simply toggle the switch to the “Link” position. When the switch is in this position, you won’t be required to enter an email address.

Step 4: Start Transfer

  1. With the “Link” option selected, click the “Transfer” button to begin the upload process. WeTransfer will upload your files to their servers.

Step 5: Get the Download Link

  1. Once the upload is complete, you’ll see a confirmation screen with the download link.
  2. You can copy this download link and share it with the recipient. The link will direct them to a WeTransfer page where they can download the files without needing to enter an email address.
  3. If you provided your email address, you’ll still receive a confirmation email with the download link for your reference.

By using the “Link” option in WeTransfer, you can quickly and easily share files with others without the need for email addresses. This can be especially handy when sharing files with individuals who may not have provided their email or when you prefer a more straightforward sharing method.

Categories
Website Tutorials

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Categories
Starting Your Business

Getting Started with Digital Marketing as a Real Estate Investor

Getting started in ANY business can be challenging. What do I do first? How can I use my time MOST effectively? Should I spend money? What about ROI? All good questions.

In today’s presentation, we’ll cover the following topics:

  1. Why do you need a website as a new REI?
  2. What helps a Real Estate Investor website be successful?
  3. What are the low-hanging fruits, the best next steps?

Enjoy!

If you have questions or comments, leave them in the comment section below.

Pre-WEB801 Webinar 2.7.23 by Nate Moller

In the ever-evolving world of real estate investing, staying ahead of the curve is paramount. While traditional marketing methods still hold value, the digital landscape presents a powerful opportunity to connect with motivated sellers and generate leads. But for real estate investors venturing into the world of digital marketing, the sheer volume of information and available platforms can be overwhelming.

This comprehensive guide empowers you, the real estate investor, to navigate the digital marketing landscape with confidence. We’ll explore key strategies, actionable tactics, and best practices to establish a robust digital presence and attract high-quality leads that fuel your investment success.

Why Embrace Digital Marketing for Real Estate Investing?

The traditional methods of networking and yard signs still have their place, but digital marketing offers several compelling advantages for real estate investors:

  • Targeted Reach: Unlike traditional marketing methods that cast a wide net, digital marketing allows you to laser-focus your efforts on reaching the specific audience you’re looking for. Whether you specialize in flipping single-family homes, acquiring rental properties, or investing in commercial buildings, digital marketing allows you to target motivated sellers based on demographics, location, and property type.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to traditional advertising methods, digital marketing offers a highly cost-effective way to reach your target audience. Platforms like social media and email marketing allow you to connect with a large pool of potential sellers without breaking the bank.
  • Measurable Results: The beauty of digital marketing lies in its measurability. You can track the performance of your campaigns in real-time, allowing you to identify what’s working and what’s not. This data-driven approach allows you to continuously optimize your strategies and maximize your return on investment (ROI).
  • Increased Credibility: A well-crafted digital presence builds trust and credibility with potential sellers. By showcasing your expertise, experience, and positive client testimonials, you position yourself as a reliable and trustworthy buyer, making sellers more likely to reach out to you with their investment opportunities.
  • 24/7 Availability: The digital world never sleeps. Having a strong online presence ensures that motivated sellers can find you and learn about your investment focus any time, day or night.

Building Your Digital Marketing Arsenal: Key Strategies for Success

Now that we understand the power of digital marketing for real estate investors, let’s explore the core strategies you can implement to attract motivated sellers and build a thriving investment portfolio:

1. Content Marketing: Establish Yourself as a Market Authority

In today’s information-driven world, content is king. By creating valuable and informative content, you establish yourself as a trusted resource for potential sellers and demonstrate your expertise in the real estate market. Here are some content marketing ideas to consider:

  • Blog: Create a blog focused on real estate investing. Share your insights on market trends, investment strategies, and tips for selling a property quickly. Regularly publish informative articles that address common concerns sellers face.
  • Market Reports & Guides: Develop downloadable reports and guides on local market conditions, the home-selling process, or the advantages of working with a real estate investor. Offer these resources in exchange for potential sellers’ contact information, building your email list for future marketing efforts.
  • Video Content: Consider creating engaging video content that showcases your expertise and investment approach. Highlight success stories of past deals or offer video testimonials from satisfied sellers. Videos can be uploaded to YouTube, shared on social media platforms, and embedded on your website.

2. Website Optimization: Your Digital Headquarters

Your website is your online storefront, and it’s crucial to optimize it for both user experience and search engines. Here’s what you need to consider:

  • Mobile-Friendly Design: A significant portion of web traffic comes from mobile devices. Ensure your website is mobile-friendly and offers a seamless user experience for all visitors.
  • Clear Value Proposition: Clearly communicate who you are, what type of properties you invest in, and the benefits you offer to sellers.
  • Call to Action (CTA): Make it easy for potential sellers to reach out to you. Include clear CTAs throughout your website, such as contact forms, phone numbers, and email addresses.
  • Local SEO Optimization: Optimize your website for local search results. Include relevant local keywords throughout your content, meta descriptions, and page titles. Claim and optimize your Google My Business listing to increase your visibility in local searches.

3. Social Media Marketing: Engaging with Potential Sellers

Social media platforms offer a powerful tool to connect with potential sellers and build brand awareness. Here’s how to leverage social media effectively:

  • Identify Your Target Platforms: Focus your efforts on social media platforms frequented by your target audience. For real estate investors, this might include LinkedIn, Facebook, or local community groups.
  • Create Engaging Content: Share content that is informative and valuable to potential sellers. This could include local market updates, tips for preparing a house for sale, or success stories of past deals you’ve closed.
  • Run Targeted Ads: Many social media platforms offer sophisticated ad targeting options. Leverage these tools to reach a highly targeted audience of motivated sellers based on demographics, location, and interests.

4. Email Marketing: Building Relationships and Nurturing Leads

Email marketing is a powerful tool for nurturing leads and building long-term relationships with potential sellers. Here are some key strategies:

  • Build Your Email List: Grow your email list by offering valuable incentives like downloadable content, market reports, or early access to exclusive deals. Encourage website visitors and social media followers to subscribe.
  • Segment Your Audience: Segment your email list based on interests and property types. This allows you to send targeted emails that are more relevant and engaging to each recipient.
  • Nurture Leads with Valuable Content: Don’t bombard your audience with constant sales pitches. Provide valuable content that educates and informs potential sellers throughout the sales cycle. Offer tips on preparing a house for sale, navigating the closing process, or the benefits of working with a real estate investor.
  • Maintain Consistent Communication: Stay top-of-mind with potential sellers by sending out regular email newsletters. However, avoid coming across as spammy. Aim for a balance between providing valuable information and promoting your services.

5. Partnering with Real Estate Professionals

Building relationships with real estate agents, property managers, and other professionals in the industry can be a valuable source of leads. Consider offering referral fees to incentivize them to connect you with motivated sellers who might be a good fit for your investment strategy.

6. Paid Advertising: Expanding Your Reach

While organic marketing strategies are essential, consider supplementing your efforts with paid advertising platforms like Google Ads or social media advertising. This allows you to target a wider audience and reach highly motivated sellers actively searching for ways to sell their property quickly.

7. Track and Measure Your Results

The beauty of digital marketing lies in its measurability. Use website analytics tools to track key metrics like website traffic, lead generation, and conversion rates. Regularly analyze your data to identify what’s working and what’s not. This allows you to optimize your strategies, refine your target audience, and maximize your return on investment (ROI).

Conclusion: Mastering the Digital Landscape for Real Estate Success

By implementing these digital marketing strategies, you can establish a strong online presence, attract a steady stream of motivated sellers, and fuel your real estate investing success. Remember, consistency is key. Continuously create valuable content, engage with your audience, and refine your approach based on data insights. The digital landscape presents a powerful opportunity for real estate investors to thrive in today’s market. Embrace the power of digital marketing and watch your portfolio flourish.

Ready to Unleash the Power of Digital Marketing for Your Real Estate Investing?

Dominating the digital landscape can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go it alone. WEB801 is your one-stop shop for all your real estate investor digital marketing needs.

Our team of experts can help you:

  • Develop a comprehensive digital marketing strategy: We’ll work with you to understand your investment goals and target audience, crafting a customized plan to attract motivated sellers.
  • Craft high-quality content: Our content marketing specialists will create informative and engaging content that establishes you as a market authority and positions you as the go-to buyer for potential sellers.
  • Optimize your website for lead generation: We’ll ensure your website is mobile-friendly, user-friendly, and optimized for local search, converting website visitors into qualified leads.
  • Execute targeted social media campaigns: Expand your reach and connect with motivated sellers on the platforms they frequent most.
  • Develop a data-driven email marketing strategy: We’ll help you build your email list, segment your audience,and nurture leads with valuable content that drives conversions.
  • Track and analyze your results: Our team will provide ongoing data insights to measure the effectiveness of your campaigns, allowing you to continuously optimize your approach and maximize your ROI.

Develop a content strategy

Identify your target audience and the specific topics that will be most relevant and interesting to them. Consider what sets your company apart from others in the industry and focus on highlighting those unique aspects.

  • Identifying your target audience is crucial to creating effective content.
  • Consider factors such as age, income, location, and interests when identifying your target audience. Once you know who you’re writing for, you can tailor your content to meet their specific needs and interests.
  • Specific topics that will be most relevant and interesting to your target audience should be identified. This could be anything from investment strategies and market trends to local events and neighborhood profiles.
  • Consider what sets your company apart from others in the industry and focus on highlighting those unique aspects. This could be your team’s expertise, specialized services, or a particular niche you focus on. By showcasing your unique selling points, you’ll be more likely to attract and retain customers.

The TOP 50 Real Estate Investment Topics to Blog About (in 2024)

1. The benefits of investing in real estate.

The benefits of investing in real estate can include a steady stream of passive income, appreciation in property value, and potential tax benefits.

Passive income can be generated through renting out the property, and appreciation in property value can occur due to market conditions, or by making improvements to the property.

Tax benefits can include deductions for mortgage interest, depreciation, and operating expenses.

2. How to find and evaluate potential investment properties.

To find and evaluate potential investment properties, investors can use a variety of tools and strategies such as market analysis, property inspections, and financial analysis to determine the potential return on investment.

By analyzing market trends and conditions, investors can identify areas where properties are likely to appreciate in value.

Property inspections can be used to identify any repairs or renovations that may be needed, and financial analysis can help determine the potential rental income and cash flow.

3. The different types of real estate investment strategies.

Different types of real estate investment strategies include fix and flip, buy and hold, and wholesaling.

Fix and flip involves buying a property in need of repairs, making those repairs, and then reselling the property for a profit.

Buy and hold involves purchasing a property and then leasing it out to tenants for a consistent stream of passive income.

Wholesaling involves finding properties at a discounted price and then reselling them to another investor.

4. How to finance a real estate investment.

Financing options for real estate investments include traditional mortgages, hard money loans, and private money loans.

Traditional mortgages are typically obtained from a bank or other financial institution, while hard money loans and private money loans are usually obtained from private investors.

5.The process of rehabbing and flipping a property.

Rehabbing and flipping a property involves buying a property that is in need of repairs, making those repairs, and then reselling the property for a profit.

This type of investment can be a good way to make a quick return on investment if done correctly.

Investors will need to have a good understanding of the real estate market, the cost of repairs, and what the property will be worth once the repairs are made.

This strategy can be risky if the costs of repairs are underestimated or if the market conditions change after the purchase.

6. The process of buying and holding a rental property.

Buying and holding a rental property involves purchasing a property and then leasing it out to tenants for a consistent stream of passive income.

This can be a good way to generate a steady cash flow and build long-term wealth through property appreciation.

To be successful, landlords will need to understand the rental market, be able to find and screen tenants, and be able to manage and maintain the property effectively.

7. How to find and screen tenants for a rental property.

To find and screen tenants for a rental property, landlords can use various tools and methods to find and screen tenants.

These include background checks, credit checks, and interviews.

This can help the landlord determine a tenant’s suitability and the likelihood that they will be able to pay the rent on time and take care of the property.

8. How to properly manage and maintain a rental property.

Properly managing and maintaining a rental property includes tasks such as collecting rent, handling repairs and maintenance, and enforcing lease agreements.

It also includes keeping up with the laws and regulations related to being a landlord.

Proper management and maintenance can help ensure that the property remains in good condition, that tenants are happy, and that the landlord is able to generate consistent income.

9. The tax benefits of real estate investing.

Real estate investments can provide tax benefits such as deductions for mortgage interest, depreciation, and operating expenses.

These tax benefits can help investors save money and increase the return on their investment.

However, it is important to note that tax laws and regulations can change, and investors should consult with a tax professional to understand how these benefits may apply to their specific situation.

10. How to exit a real estate investment.

Exiting a real estate investment can involve selling the property, refinancing, or renting the property.

Selling the property can provide a lump sum of cash, but it also means that the investor will no longer have ownership of the property.

Refinancing can provide cash and allow the investor to continue owning the property.

Renting the property can provide a steady stream of passive income, but it also means that the investor will continue to be responsible for the property and will have to manage it as a landlord.

Other Topics Worth Considering for a Real Estate Investor Blog

11. How to use leverage in real estate investing.

12. How to build and maintain a real estate investment portfolio.

13. How to find and work with a real estate agent.

14. How to analyze cash flow and return on investment.

15. How to use market analysis to identify profitable investments.

16. How to find and use real estate investment tools and software.

17. How to create a business plan for a real estate investment company.

18. How to network and build a team of real estate professionals.

19. The impact of interest rates on real estate investing.

20. The impact of the economy on real estate investing.

21. How to spot and avoid common real estate investing mistakes.

22. How to use technology to improve real estate investing.

23. How to use crowdfunding to finance a real estate investment.

24. How to use self-directed IRA to invest in real estate.

25. How to invest in real estate with little or no money down.

26. How to invest in real estate with a small budget.

27. How to invest in real estate as a beginner.

28. How to invest in commercial real estate.

29. How to invest in real estate development.

30. How to invest in real estate through REITs.

31. How to invest in real estate through partnerships.

32. How to invest in real estate using options.

33. How to invest in real estate using lease options.

34. How to invest in real estate using owner financing.

35. How to invest in real estate using virtual assistant.

36. How to invest in real estate using online marketplaces.

37. How to invest in real estate using online platforms.

38. How to invest in real estate using online tools.

39. How to invest in real estate using online resources.

40. How to invest in real estate using online education.

41. How to invest in real estate using online communities.

42. How to invest in real estate using online networks.

43. How to invest in real estate using online software.

44. How to invest in real estate using online systems.

45. How to invest in real estate using online calculators.

46. How to invest in real estate using online databases.

47. How to invest in real estate using online maps.

48. How to invest in real estate using online analytics.

49. How to invest in real estate using online market data.

50. How to invest in real estate using online market trends.

Please note: this list isn’t exhaustive.

The specific topics for blog posts can vary depending on the focus and goals of your real estate investment business.

Research and gather information

Conduct thorough research on the real estate market, industry trends, and any relevant news or events. Gather data and statistics to support your content and make it more credible.

  • Conducting thorough research on the real estate market, industry trends, and any relevant news or events is crucial to creating credible and informative content. This will help you stay up-to-date and provide valuable insights to your readers.
  • Gather data and statistics to support your content and make it more credible. This could include information such as median home prices, rental rates, and property appreciation rates in the areas you focus on.

Create a variety of content

Mix it up with blog posts, infographics, videos, and other types of content to keep things interesting for your readers.

  • Mixing it up with different types of content such as blog posts, infographics, videos, and other formats will keep things interesting for your readers. This can help to attract a wider audience and increase engagement.

Use storytelling

Use storytelling to make your content more engaging and memorable. Share success stories of your past investments, or talk about the process of acquiring a new property.

  • Storytelling is a powerful tool that can help make your content more engaging and memorable. Share success stories of your past investments, or talk about the process of acquiring a new property. This can help to humanize your brand and build trust with your audience.

Optimize for SEO

Use keywords and meta tags to make your content more search engine friendly. This will help increase visibility and drive more traffic to your website.

  • Using keywords and meta tags to make your content more search engine friendly will help increase visibility and drive more traffic to your website. This could include including relevant keywords in your headlines, meta descriptions, and body content.

Promote your content

Share your content on social media, email marketing campaigns, and other channels to increase visibility and attract new readers.

  • Share your content on social media, email marketing campaigns, and other channels to increase visibility and attract new readers.
  • This could include creating social media posts to promote your blog, or including a link to your latest blog post in your email newsletter.

Evaluate and improve

Use analytics to track the performance of your content and use this information to improve and refine your strategy over time.

  • Use analytics to track the performance of your content and use this information to improve and refine your strategy over time.
  • This could include tracking metrics such as website traffic, social media engagement, and conversion rates.
  • This can help you to identify what works well and what doesn’t, so you can make adjustments to your strategy as needed.

Stop letting motivated sellers slip through the cracks. Contact WEB801 today for a free consultation and unlock the full potential of digital marketing for your real estate investing success!

Categories
Digital Presence & Marketing Strategy

Performance Goals vs. Outcome Goals

UPDATED: February 7th, 2023

I talk with clients all the time about ROI – Return on Investment.

One of my main objectives when building a new website & digital marketing strategy is helping the client SEE the ROI as quickly as possible.

Naturally goals come into the conversation.

To help a client set realistic goals, I ask questions:

Where are you now?

Where do you want to be in a year from now?

What’s your website doing for your business to help you get there?

If we do ___________, how will that affect ______________?

What does success look like for your business website?

These are all important questions we review early on in the Discovery Process.

When I think about goals, the Serenity Prayer comes to mind:

God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
Courage to change the things I can,
And the wisdom to know the difference.

I can’t always control everything.

Sometimes, no matter how much work I do on a project, the results aren’t coming as quickly as I’d like.

I have to make adjustments.

Making Goal Adjustments

I love sports.

I played a lot of sports as a kid. And I learned many valuable lessons that have helped me as a business owner today.

One of those lessons is that I can’t control my height.

Growing up I played basketball nearly every day. But no matter how much I practiced, that practice wasn’t going to change my height (something I couldn’t change).

Eventually I had to change my goals and focus on other priorities.

That experience, along with countless others in business, brings me to the point of today’s conversation: Performance Goals vs. Outcome Goals.

Performance vs Outcome Goals – What’s the Difference?

Have you ever heard of these concepts?

Performance Goals?

Outcome Goals?

Why are these types of goals even worth considering?

performance goalsWe all want outcomes, results, money in the bank.

But before that happens we have to take the necessary steps to get everything in place.

As I’ve studied about goals and goal setting, a couple terms kept coming up: performance goals & outcome goals.

The summary of the two goals is simple:

I CAN control a performance goal.

I CAN’T control an outcome goal.

In other words,

“Performance based goals can be controlled by the person who sets the goals while outcome based goals are frequently controlled by others…Performance goals focus on the person’s performance while outcome goals focus strictly on the outcome or result.”

This is really helpful when thinking about goals for a business.

What CAN I control?

What CAN’T I control?

Help me to know the difference!

The Danger of Outcome Goals

Goals based on outcomes are extremely vulnerable to failure because of things beyond my control.

For example, I might achieve a personal best time in a race, but still be disqualified due to a mistake by the judge.

If my outcome goal was to be in the top three, then I’m screwed.

However, if I set a performance goal of achieving a particular time, then despite the outcome or the decisions of others, I’ll have achieved the goal and can know I did my best.

Another example of an outcome goal is to make a certain amount of money.

In my Moller Mission Statement, I set some specific “outcome goals”.

But, in front of those outcome goals were well defined, written out action steps (or “performance goals”) that I committed to in order to give myself the best chance to achieve the final result.

If I want to make a certain amount of money, I’d better set specific goals I have control of that lead me down that path.

So here’s an important question:

What performance goals can I set that will help me achieve the outcomes I’d like to see?

The Power of Performance Goals

I have control of performance goals. They are measurable, things I can track.

In an online business, performance goals may be things like this:

  • I will write one article per week on Wednesday.
  • I will contact 2  businesses today in my target niche.
  • I will reach out to 2 podcasts today to offer to guest speak.
  • I will create 3 videos on Friday of this week & schedule them to publish.
  • I will record my performance on a spreadsheet.
  • I will report back to my mentor.

Do I have “outcomes” in mind?

YES!

But the outcomes are based more on my performance than anyone else’s.

It doesn’t say I will close 2 deals this week. But by contacting 2 businesses this week, I’m giving myself the best chance to make connections that will result in new business.

Here are some questions to consider when setting “performance goals” for your online business:

  • What do I need to do today to make a sale?
  • How many people do I plan to contact every day to build my network?
  • When I contact these people, what am I going to ask them?
  • What content am I going to consume to get ideas for help with my sales?
  • How many current clients will I talk to about their purchases and attempt to get repeat business with?
  • Do I have a “Plan of Attack” on what I’m going to do each day to increase the chances of making more sales?

How Do I Apply This Information Today?

Here’s a real example that I’m working on in order to implement the performance goal ideas:

I have a goal, maybe it’s an outcome goal, to use video more as a marketing channel in my business.

Ultimately I want to create online courses that help my clients grow their online businesses.

Video is an essential piece in that puzzle.

So I need to get going with video creation.

Where am I now?

I have two YouTube Channels.

One has 1,150 subscribers, 1,164,471 views, and was started on May 19th, 2013.

The other has 20 subscribers, 30,989 views, and was started on March 16, 2012.

The first one has all kinds of random videos: a funny dance recital video that has over 1 MILLION views, family stuff, DIY handyman stuff, a pool install, and some website tips and tricks. Not very focused or niche.

The second one has mostly just website tips, tutorials, & guidance. But obviously very little traction.

The first is currently titled VID801.

The second is currently titled Nate Moller.

My natural inclination is to continue to grow the VID801 channel. But in all my video research, there’s a lot of clean up that would have to happen.

And the majority of those subscribers are probably mostly interested in the funny dance recital – NOT digital marketing.

So, my decision is to work on the Nate Moller channel.

Here are my performance goals:

1.  I will have my designer create a channel style guide (banner background, icon, color scheme, logo implementation, etc.)

2. I will review content I currently have and create an editorial calendar, focusing on creating 3 videos every Friday.

3. I will watch 2 of the the 400+ Watch Later videos  every day and take detailed notes on what I’m learning.

4. I will IMPLEMENT those notes in my video strategy.

5. I will record my progress in a Google Spreadsheet.

So that’s my plan.

Sharing it with readers like you can be helpful.

Now that I’ve written it out, printed it, and put it on my desk, I plan to remind myself of it each day.

Let’s get your take on this.

What are “Performance Goals” you plan to set the help you get the “Outcomes” you want?

Leave a comment below! 👇

Categories
Website Tutorials

Step 5: How to See Leads on Your Website

Getting qualified leads on your website is probably one of the most important steps in this process.

The video today will walk you through how to see leads on your website, both when you log into the website and via email.

Assignment: If you have questions about this process or need additional information, leave a comment in the comment section below.

Categories
Website Tutorials

Step 4: How to Create New Pages on Your Website

In this video, we will go over how to create new pages on your website, also known as cloning.

We’ve built many different pages on your website. Each page has its own unique layout, look, and feel.

We’ve made it possible to clone these pages and add new pages to your website.

ATTENTION: Just because you add a new page to your website, does not mean it will show up in the top navigation.

ASSIGNMENT: Leave a comment below when you’ve completed this task. If you have questions, ask away!

Categories
Website Tutorials

Step 3: How to Change & Resize Images for FREE

You’re making great progress!

This video will walk you through the step-by-step process of changing images on your website.

Changing images can give your website its own unique look and feel and customize the overall experience for visitors.

Part of changing images on your website will be knowing where to get royalty-free images, and also knowing how to resize them, so they fit in the appropriate way on your webpage.

You can use Canva for FREE to resize images or test out the Pro Version.

Assignment: Leave a comment below when you’ve completed this step. Ask questions too!