Actually, yes you can. Here are a few free or low cost ways to promote your website and your business: (WARNING – some homework may be required!):
- Write press releases and submit to local publications (announce anything new with your business- new employee, new website, new offering, new location, etc.)
- Create a links page and ask complimentary businesses to link to your website – one hand washes the other- I’ll add a link to your website, will you link to mine? Think of other business that would be good referrals sources for you, or compliment your services.
- Make sure that any membership organizations that you belong to have current data and a link to your website – (IE local Chamber, business associations, etc.)
- Make sure your web address is included on ALL printed materials (I.E. letterhead, business cards, vehicles, advertisements, brochures) that you use – and are included in all media outlets (Yes, even the press releases).
- Make use of business directories and free online business listings (see Free Listings below)
- Surf and search the Internet to see where your competitors are coming up. Investigate to find out how much it cost to be there too.
- Search online to see who comes up first in the non-paid section of search engines results. Click the link to see if they offer free listings, free advertising, or low cost membership.
Free Listings: As with all things in life, sometimes we need to pay attention to the old sayings we’ve heard over and over. In this case, “You get what you pay for” or “Nothing in life is free”, may be applicable. Some companies, or online organizations, will let you submit your business information for free, with little hassle or obligations. BUT some, although they do not ask for money, do NOT come without any cost. For instance, once you submit your information to a free business-listing directory, normally you will receive an email that must be confirmed. Sometimes by confirming, you have automatically agreed to their terms and conditions. So use caution and pay attention to what these so called “free” listings want from you in return. Another thing to watch out for is automatically subscribing yourself to newsletters, email lists, et cetera. Some of these free services may want you to add a reciprocal link to your website. Other free listings are only temporarily free and will convert to paid advertising in order to maintain the listing. Beware of the terms and conditions that you are agreeing to when providing your data or submitting your website URL (address) and/or email address.