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Small Business Website Flattery

Many small business owners know they need a new website (or a website, period!), but end up procrastinating because they just don't know where to begin. Whether they have decided to create one on their own, or want to hire a website designer, they get overwhelmed by the decision making process. There are just so many decisions to make!

**What should the overall layout look like?
**What color schemes will look best?
**How many pages should I included?, etc.

While every business is unique, and should have a unique webpage, don't discount the value in checking out your competitors. Take some time to browse through the websites of other companies in your industry. You will get some great ideas for things to include on your own website. You will also get a feel for things you like (and don't like) when it comes to website design.

POWER WEB TIP: When you sit down to research other businesses' websites, pretend like you are the consumer. Approach the site as if you were really interested in potentially hiring that company, or purchasing products from them. Pay attention to things like site navigation (is it easy to find what you're looking for?). After all, your website is to impress the client, not the competiton!

Meghan Mullee
The Power Behind Your Sales

Top 3 Things Your Website Needs!

1. Search Capability.
Most people that come upon your website will be potential buyers searching for homes in the area. If you don't have search capabilities (IDX) on your website, they will simply (and quickly) move on to one of the other thousands of sites that does.

2. Home Value Report.
People on your site who are not interested in searching for homes, are likely potential sellers interested in how much their home is worth in the current market. Capture these leads by offering a free home value report.

3. Helpful (& interesting) Information Unique to Your Site.
After a lead has used your site to search for homes or get a home value report, you need something that will keep them there. Offer links to restaurants, tips for homeowners, local events reports.... anything to make your website more interesting and more valuable than your competition's sites!

Top 3 Social Networking Sites

1. Facebook
Not just for college grads anymore! Anyone can join this social networking site that allows for both personal and business pages. Sign up, join groups, and maximize your virtual networking.

2. MySpace
If you think this site is just for teenagers, think again! Like facebook, myspace has grown up. It's easy to join, and simple to publish a page. Get a profile, and "friend" other professionals in your area.

3. Linkedin
If myspace and facebook intimidate you, try linkedin. The profile section is much more straightforward, and the site is dedicated to professional networking.

Top 3 Coolest Things You Can Do With Your Cell Phone

1. Blog!

That's right all you blogging addicts, now you can blog from your cell phone! A company called "Udderz" is taking blogging and cell phone technology to the next level, allowing you to leave a recorded message which they will post on your blog site.

2. SMS Marketing.

Use the camera function on your phone, take a picture of your listing, and SMS message it off to potentially interested buyers!

3. Email on the go.

Out showing homes for way longer than you expected? Be able to keep up with incoming leads and emails discretely without dragging your laptop around with you. Contact your cell phone service provider for email additions to your existing plan. (Note: phones and PDAs with full mini-keyboards such as the Blackberry work great for this!)

Top 3 Business Card Tips!

1. Don't have a business card!
...at least, at first. When you're out networking and someone asks for your card, pretend you "forgot" yours. Get their card instead with a promise to get your info to them A.S.A.P. This puts you in control. You now have your network contact's information to add to an database (like TopProducer 7i), and a reason to contact them soon.

2. Make your website the biggest, boldest thing on the card.
Your website is where you want people to end up, even if they're not going to call you. Make it stand out, even more than your name. If they go to your website (and if your site grabs their attention), it increases the chances that they'll call.

3. Include a call to action!
If you're going to be handing out business cards just like everyone else, why make them boring and forgettable just like everyone else? I don't care how cute your picture is, it's not a reason for someone to hang onto your card. Offer a discount to a local restaurant on the back, offer a free CMA if they sign up on your website.... it doesn't matter what the offer is. The idea is to make an offer that will make them keep your card!

Bonus: For a bonus super-creative business card idea, check out Mehmet Met Dilsiz's post on Activerain!

Top 3 Postcard Ideas

1. NEIGHBORHOOD SURVEY
Have 50 quality "just listed" postcards printed. On the front should be a picture of the listing. On the back, print a short survey. Include name, email address, likes and dislikes about the community, etc. Make sure they are addressed back to you, and affix a stamp. Instead of mailing these postcards, go door-to-door in the neighborhood where you just got your new listing. This will give you a chance to network with some of the neighbors, a chance to promote your new listing, and a direct-response reverse mailing to add to your database!

2. TWO-PARTERS
Send out a "teaser" postcard, followed by an "anticipated follow-up" postcard. For example: a riddle followed by the answer, or ingredients for a cookie recipe followed by baking instructions. Notice, these don't have to be real estate related. The point is that you get your name in front of your audience, get their attention with something they might be interested in, and then get them to actually look forward to receiving the next card from you! (This also works with e-postcards).

3. DIRECT-RESPONSE OFFERS
Use your postcards as direct-response marketing. Have them either go to your website or meet you in person for a little networking. For example: "Visit my real estate marketing website for a list of the areas top Realtors" or "Join me at Starbucks on Friday between 10am & 11am for a free cup of coffee!" Get your audience interested, then have them follow up on your offer! (This also works with e-postcards)