A business website is an essential tool for any company who wants to start a new venture these days. If you are unsure how to launch your website, you are not alone. Here are some key steps to follow when planning a new website launch, as well as some practical tips and resources to get the job done right.
Choosing a Domain Name
The very first step in a website launch is choosing a domain name. You should choose a name that closely relates to your business branding and image. It should be very easy to remember so that customers can access it from memory and share it with family or friends. If the domain name that you desire is already registered to someone else, consider changing some aspects of it, like adding a dash or changing from a .com to a .net.
You should also consider including keywords in your domain name, rather than simply your business name, to help with your search engine placement. For example, if you are a San Diego house painter, consider choosing the domain sandiegopainter.com, instead of smithpainting.com, as this will help you perform better in the search engine results.
Web Hosting
Once you secure a domain name, the next step in a website launch is purchasing a virtual space on the web to host your site. As a novice to the internet realm, make sure you choose a hosting company that provides you with an intuitive administrative backend, such as cPanel. This will help you manage your website, email addresses, and traffic stats with greater ease.
Website Setup
There is more than one way to setup a website. With your domain name and web host provider already determined, it might be easiest for you to turn to design process over to a professional. You can utilize freelance job sites to obtain a good designer for an affordable cost. For a onetime fee, a professional can create a custom site tailored to meet your business needs. Using a designer is one of the easiest ways to complete the website launch process. When you actually execute the new website launch, a professional designer will be able to work out any kinks in the system quickly and efficiently.
If you have some technical computer knowledge, you may be able to take the reins yourself for the website setup step. Consider buying a website template, which has already completed the vast majority of the design work for you.
Online Resources for a New Website Launch
Once you have your website designed and hosted, it will be time to launch your internet space! However, your work is not yet done. Include your website URL on your business card and marketing materials. You need to generate buzz around your website so that customers and potential clients know you exist. Consider sending out an online press release to generate attention. You can buy pay-per-click (PPC) advertisements through Google or Overture to instantly attract potential customers.
If you are still wary about how to launch your website, don’t be discouraged. While there is a learning curve with starting a website, the results will be well worth the effort.
