Your Name: Lindsay
Company Name:
Self-employed web content writer & site builder
Website(s):
Too many to list.
http://www.ergoblog.com
is the most recent project
How do you do most of your promotion or marketing?
I target search engine traffic. If I were selling a product
online, I would also use Google Adwords or Overture.
What are the most difficult
things you've encountered?
It's hard to find time to start your own business.
Most of us can't afford to quit our "day jobs"--or
aren't willing to give up the security--until we're sure
we can make a living at the new enterprise. I hear a lot
of people say you need to set aside a certain time each
day to work on things. Must be nice to be so organized.
I say, take time when you can find it. 15 minutes here and
there adds up. Do your brainstorming in the shower, in the
car, in line at the grocery store, etc. so that when you
do get a few minutes to sit down and work, you have it all
planned out.
What are your top 3 promotion tips?
- Don't try to be everything and do everything. Find a
niche, become an expert, and figure out what you can do
better than your competition.
- Know your target audience.
- Regional targeting is the next thing for web-based advertising.
Don't think just because you are a brick & mortar
business, you can't get customers through search engines
and web advertising.
Are there any other things you wish you had done
differently?
Not really. I've made some mistakes and lost some
money, but if I hadn't made them, I wouldn't be any wiser
now. My biggest advice would be only to get involved with
things that interest you. If your business isn't about something
you derive fulfillment from, you might as well stay in the
factory knocking out cogs & widgets.
What tips would you like to pass along to others?
Yes, it's a cliche, but leave yourself time to
enjoy life and pursue your passions. Time is more valuable
than money, and some sacrifices aren't worth making.
