Building it is not always enough to make them come

Many businesses work very hard to maximize search engine optimization on their websites. They then sit back and expect increased traffic flow. But SEO alone isn't enough anymore.

While SEO is a very important part of building a professional website, marketing is also crucial to the success of your site. Emphasize your web address on all your print marketing pieces, ads, giveaway items, email signatures, and the like. Here are a few additional creative ways to entice visitors to your site:

Offer a free, unique tool at your website. For example, a walk-in healthcare clinic could offer a "View Current Wait Times Online" feature.

Promote coupons and special discounts available only through your website. This will encourage prospects and customers to revisit your site frequently.

Create a free local online listing for your business through Google, Bing, and/or Yahoo!

Post informative or creative how-to videos that are relevant to your business on YouTube. This will not only promote your business but also drive traffic to your site.

Publicize a contest or giveaway, with a sign-up on your website. Not only will you draw people to your site, but you can also increase your database for future marketing.

Submit news releases to print and online publications in your industry, and include a link to your site on each release.

Some of the best ideas for drawing visitors to your website might come directly from your coworker team. Consider creating an internal contest to encourage ideas for an innovative website promotion, and reward the winner of the best idea. The more valuable the prize (such as a cash gift or PTO), the more thought your team will put forth.

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