Small Business Online- And in the Black
Published: 12/13/2008 by Alan Vandenbroek
Small Business Online- And in the Black
Customers aren’t calling, instead searching for “Bigger” businesses with “Bigger” benefits. You’re not in the red, but not quite into the black. Basic business 101 says 1 in 5 businesses fail. So how can we up those odds? By going directly into the online field and offering incredible, professional advantages for customers to use you and not the big business competitor.
Be Honest:
There is nothing wrong with being completely honest with buyers. “I want your business” or “I know we are new …” because this offers a more personal contact which is exactly what your small business needs. It’s obvious that walking down the street to a store and talking with someone working is far more personal than buying something online. They might pay you more; supporting local business isn’t a myth—many practice it.
Build:
If you have a brick and mortar location, it’s time to build your online presence yesterday. Yet some businesses don’t even try, or cannot compete once they do. It takes time to build a small business online. One of the best things you can invest in is the web designer. He/She can make the page look completely professional, with easy to use features for users. Other people you will want to consider hiring include other niche businesses, like SEO creation or consulting. Of these, building a credible web page is the prime directive.
Volume or Quality?
In the online world, niche building is the way to increase profits. This is a broad stroke: many online companies offer thousands of different products. But usually there is a theme. For instance, Amazon.com sells mainly entertainment items, and they surely have the market share of that. Small businesses need to tap into chosen markets first, expanding when the profits say so. It sounds simple, but a “Do Everything” type of service often loses to a specialty business. Unless there is a price gap.
Prices:
Finally, we’re down to business. You can’t compete with the big store down the Internet street … cannot sell for the same prices … what can you do? Again, start with being honest. Then build yourself as a niche. Then offer your services locally; many local customers may again decide to buy from you over Wal-Mart. This means advertising your small business website across the local area. It works for countless businesses, and even the most basic of web pages can work.
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