A website has become as essential to a business as a telephone. It is your virtual business on the internet that, often times, customers see first. A website also allows you to promote yourself in more ways than you can ever imagine. Think of your website as your virtual business. When visitors come to your REAL business, you want to make a good first impression; the same rules apply when it comes to your website.
Make sure your website looks clean, but not too stiff. Use beautiful colors and pictures, however don't over-do it. You want to keep your website clean and neat so visitors don't get distracted from their original intent. Also, if your customers cannot place orders on your website — you are missing out! E-commerce (online shopping) is booming and it's time to take advantage of this. Customers expect to be able to buy online, even from small businesses.
In the grand scheme of internet, your website might seem pretty insignificant.. and it is, for the most part. This is like opening up your shop for business, “Hey, we're here, come find us!" You have to spread the word.
There is some good news, though! Spreading the word about your website online has become simple and fun. Your main goal when promoting online is to focus everything back to your WEBSITE. No matter what type of online marketing you are planning, social media, email, blogging — it all needs to point back to your presence online, aka your website.