As we already know, Web sites are key components for successful sales and marketing departments. Items that make a profitable Web site consist of professional looking design, intuitive navigation, interactivity and ease of communication or commerce. However, one item that is more important than all of these is the one over which you have the least control; Web site traffic. The truth is that a Web site isn’t going to increase revenues if there is no one visiting the site. Whether by organic search rankings, pay-per-click marketing, or offline advertising, successful businesses are continuously trying strategies to increase their site visitors. Link building has proven successful in developing online recognition.
The following list explains ten different ways to boost links and increase traffic:
1. Create a List: People are attracted to titles like “Top Ten Ways to ___” or “Learn ___ in 5 Easy Steps.” Lists of helpful tidbits are easy to read and attractive to the busy reader. Information that could be turned into a list includes names of experts, strategies to accomplish a goal, tips, and resources. Including list-like articles in your electronic newsletter boost readership and drive more traffic to your Web site.
2. Article Submissions: Writing articles and submitting them to various article submissions sites is one of the best ways to get exposure. Targeted groups may stumble upon your article and consider you an expert. These types of practices build trust and, in return, boost traffic. Some sites to check out include EzineArticles, GoArticles, and iSnare.
3. Social Bookmarking: Sites like Del.icio.us and Digg are becoming more and more popular. These sites offer ways for Internet users to store, organize, share and search bookmarks of web pages. In a social bookmarking system users save links to web pages that they want to remember and/or share. If a site related or linked to yours is tagged, there is a good chance that interested readers will find your site also.
4. Local Links: Don’t forget to check that you have a link from area organizations too. Chambers of commerce and libraries usually have outgoing links to area businesses. If you’re part of member organizations, a link on their site is normally a part of membership rights.
5. RSS-ify: If there are lists of articles, events, or press releases that are regularly updated, it may be a good idea to turned them into an RSS feed. RSS is a Web technology that is rapidly gaining popularity. People are adopting RSS readers and adding their favorite sites for updated information, like news and events.
These five tips are just a few ways to help build links to your site. For more information on building links or driving traffic to your site, contact NuRelm for advice or visit our Virtual Library for informational articles about online marketing. You can get free, individualized online marketing advice by filling out an online assessment form located on our home page.
Heather Jewell is the VP of Business Development of NuRelm. As an integral part of NuRelm's Online Marketing department, she has an extensive background in promoting Web sites and writing for the Web. NuRelm is a Web software and services firm that focuses on helping non-technical professionals utilize on the Web to build business. For more information, please visit www.NuRelm.com.