Google Panda, first released in February 2011, is an update “aimed to lower the rank of ‘low-quality sites’, and return higher-quality sites near the top of the search results.” This has influenced the way web developers and publishers think of website building because Panda sifts through and penalizes sites with mediocre content. Since its first rollout, the filter has affected 12% of the internet’s content farm that are poorly written or irrelevant. Now on its second year, Panda has gone through major changes and upgrades to ensure quality search engine results to the Google market. Related Searches A bigger coverage [...]

Although there are many factors that contribute to how and what people buy online, Color remains one of the strongest and most persuasive visual cues. Web and graphic designers depend on a set color scheme for each of their designs. Color is laid out not only to set out an overall mood for your site, but also to influence your site visitors to do certain actions like view, read, click or purchase. Here are some quick tips before deciding what color scheme to go with for your business website or online store: 1. Know your target market. Identify your target [...]

Internet marketing allows businesses of all sizes, no matter how small, to be able to promote themselves online. And it’s a good thing  that today’s ads are not just limited to huge billboards, TV commercials and other expensive campaigns. Here are some quick tips so that you can get your startup or small business website effectively promoted: 1. Got a website? Then know the language. You may have heard all the acronyms: SEO, SEM, SMM, PPC, and the list just goes on and on. But what do they really mean? Search Engine Optimization (SEO), as a whole, is the process of [...]

While most businesses now have online stores or business websites, there are many who still haven’t embraced social media to the fullest. If you already have a Facebook fan page for your small business, why not add your Google+ page next. Like Facebook, Google+ allows you to post and share photos, videos, messages, and other information of value to your customers and circle of virtual friends. Create a Page To setup your own Google+ page, you must have a Google Account so register one if you don’t. Once logged in you can now create your Google+ page. Showcase Yourself Sign [...]

In the recently concluded PubCon Las Vegas 2011, the premier social media expo, Google engineer Matt Cutts recognized 3 areas online marketers like you should focus on this 2012. Cutts called it SoLoMo: Social, Local and Mobile. This umbrella term encompass a number of effective internet marketing trends that may propel your business this year and beyond.   1. Facebook shouldn’t be ignored, period. Separate your company fan page your personal profile. A fan page allows for better customization and a professional-looking page could also be one your company’s selling points. So build a great-looking landing page and get people [...]

In a social world where just about anything has become shareable, people love to talk about great deals and services both online and offline —from excellent restaurants to the hottest product or the latest online exclusive. In an October 2011 study by Word of Mouth Marketing Association (WOMMA), survey shows that the typical American drops specific brand names about 60 times in a conversation, may it be online or offline. This is one of the principles behind word of mouth marketing—a common strategy of start-ups, local entrepreneurs, and small businesses. The Association defines word of mouth marketing as any business [...]

With the Internet becoming a more and more competitive arena for businesses, new channels are constantly being explored to build brand recognition. One effective strategy is the rapid rise of online video marketing, which is used to promote both products and services. Using video to help sell your product or service is a highly effective way of increasing traffic to your business website. With popular video hosting sites such as YouTube and Vimeo, online videos are also effectively used in viral marketing. There are several key benefits to creating a business marketing video. Primarily, video is a powerful format when [...]

Social media has now become an integral part of internet marketing. No longer limited to business branding and promotion, it is now also a well-utilized  channel  for customer service. The great thing about using social sites to reach your customers is that you don’t need to be a corporate giant to gain exposure. Marsha Collier, author of The Ultimate Online Customer Service Guide, believes that small businesses are better equipped to gain more from social media. Given their size, it’s easier for them to focus on their customers and communicate with them.  To stay in the lead, every kind of [...]

A poorly-designed landing page can ruin your marketing efforts in an instant, which would be a pity considering you’ve managed to convince people to go that far into your business website. Having an effective internet marketing plan that succeeds in getting potential clients involves having a well-thought out landing page that is both appealing and convincing. Follow these simple tips to make sure your landing page works for you rather than against you: Keep it Short and Sweet – Once your visitors are on your landing page, give them clear and simple directions. Icon links usually work best for this [...]

Following up on last week’s post on “Reach Out to International Markets with Your Ecommerce Website,” here are 10 practical tips to help you on your way to reaping the rewards of eCommerce for your small business. Good eCommerce web design is all about thinking what your customer’s needs are and anticipating what they will look for when they visit your site. To maximize the chances of converting visits to sales, there are several features you should have that will make the process smooth and efficient for everyone. Search Field – This is the first thing visitors will look for [...]