If you are an entrepreneur you may be wondering how you can make more money online. There are businesses that thrive without online sales due to offline marketing efforts. Some are apprehensive because they are accustomed to doing things the old way. For those that would like tips on how to grow your online business, I have a few things to share.
Don't be Afraid to Network
It takes time to build any business whether off or online. If you are someone with a business with very few people in your circle, chances are that your sales volume will be low. The more people you know, the more opportunities to share what you do. Being shy or afraid to let new people in your world may cost you potential clients. Try building followers on social media by adding 3 new friends each time you log on per day. If you're a little apprehensive, reach out to friends of mutual friends.
Build Relationships
Have you ever been there? Someone sent you a friend request on social media only to ask you to join their team, visit their website, or to purchase their product? This can be totally annoying! People would much rather do business with people they know and trust. Work on building relationships first then share your opportunity with them. A part of networking is finding out things about those you connect with. Try sending a message to those you connect with on social media thanking them for connecting with you. Wait a few days or a week then send them another message that either shows interest in what they do or pay them a compliment (conversation starters). Add their names to a prospect list. Have general chats/conversation with them until you feel comfortable enough to share with them what you do. There really is no set amount of time to build relationships but the key is to make certain that the potential client does not feel as if there is an underlying motive.
Use Hashtags & Keywords
When posting on social media, make sure you use hashtags and keywords. They have a lot to do with how you're indexed when people do searches. So what are hashtags anyway? Defined - A word or phrase preceded by a hash sign (#), used on social media websites and applications to identify digital content on specific topics. For example if I post something on social media about makeup. I would add it like this (#makeup) somewhere in the post. Keywords are words or phrases that people use the most when searching online. For example make money online or direct sales tips. To learn more about keywords research SEO or Search Engine Optimization.
Work on Your Social Media Presence
First Impressions mean everything! If we are professionals, then we should present ourselves as professional. Something I do on a regular basis is work on appearance. Having a professional headshot photo or one that can pass for professional is key. Flyers and graphics should look their best. Posting things that are negative or out of character could be a turn off. People enjoy feel good post that are fun and engaging. Interesting enough most post should not be ads. Just a few ideas of things to post: family photos, funny post, inspiration, & trending topics or news. Sprinkling in a few ads here or there is sufficient.
Stay Consistent
Staying consistent means staying active. Sure entrepreneurs can succeed without social media but with the world evolving, social media can help. Some are not interested is social media marketing but interacting only a few days a week can make a difference. How to you stay active on social media? Engage in other people's post by liking, commenting, & sharing post. This is a sure way to get noticed. I strongly suggest three to four days a week to see great results. Part of professionalism is not getting into disputes, anything that is negative, or posting profanity. Last but not least make sure that you're checking your messages and responding in a timely manner.
Just a Few More Tips:
There are quite a few things that can be done to grow a business on social media. Remember that marketing efforts should be ongoing. Think about creating a monthly marketing plan. Offer the best customer service. Be punctual and trustworthy. Pay attention to competitors but work on being authentic. Brand like a pro and utilize target marketing. Follow up with clients that place orders by thanking them for their orders and by making sure that they are pleased.
I hope that the tips help you increase online sales.
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Do you need more tips? My book 100 Tips for Direct Sales Leaders is Available on Amazon Here.
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