This article is part 2 of 4 which recaps the roundtable discussion that were held at the recent FMI conference in Scottsdale, Arizona.
After splitting the attendees up into four groups, we assigned each a separate topic for them to discuss. Feel free to click below to read the previous article.
1 – Blogging and Sharing Websites Marketing Efforts (Led by Dave Dreas)
2 – Personal Website Marketing Efforts (Led by James Patrick)
3 – Social Media Marketing Efforts (Led by Kimerbly Miller)
4 – Differentiating your Niche and Brand Online (Led by Teri Simmons-Crenshaw)
The second discussion we’re sharing is Personal Website Marketing Efforts which was led by myself.
The main topics of discussions for this topic were:
Content
Video reels are a great way to not only drive traffic, but to keep traffic on your website. The videos should be easy to consume and be around the 2-3 minute mark. They can be used to show what you do, show behind the scenes, serve as a demo reel, or simply just to educate or entertain visitors.
It was also discussed the the website should have social media integrated into it. One way to do this is to include links to all your social media platforms. Another way to do this is to have a social media feed appear on the website (for example a Twitter feed which shows anytime you are mentioned or make a post yourself). Another way to boost website traffic is to include social buttons such as the Facebook LIKE, the Google +1, etc which allows visitors the opportunity to evangelize the content on your site on your behalf.
Showcasing testimonials are a great way to build trust and credibility with your visitors. It was brought up that they should not all be hidden away on one page, but instead be distributed throughout the website at key points.
Sharing personal information or stories is a great way to humanize yourself in your business and allow clients to see the real side of you. However it must be genuine. People will know if it is acting.
Most importantly, all pages of a website should have some visible and easily noticed call to action. The “what do you want me to do now that I am here” direction.
Design
The overall comments on design was that the website needs to be clean and simple to use with strong visual elements that don’t clutter or inhibit the ability to use the website.
Conversion
You should look to add value to your visitors through offering some form of free content such as free recipes if you are a nutritionist (or something what a practical implementation to your business). There could be a trade, if people sign up to receive a newsletter they receive a free prize in exchange.
To convert visitors to clients you should illustrate what is in it for them. Why they should join, or sign up for your newsletter.
Be sure to set goals with your website. Are you wanting to drive more traffic? Sell a product or service?
Building backlinks (links from other websites to your websites that enhance your SEO) is an ongoing process. This can be done through social media channels, press kits, relevant sites within the industry, writing for a blog, being interviewed on a blog, forums, etc.
The newsletter or blog you set up could offer deals, information, coupons, promotional items or simply be a platform for you to share information that your visitors would find helpful.
STAY TUNED TO THE UPCOMING POSTS ON THE OTHER TWO ROUND TABLE DISCUSSIONS.
James Patrick
www.jamespatrick.com
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