Getting Started With Online Marketing: Essential Tips for Beginners

Are you a small business owner just stepping into the world of online marketing?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of strategies, tools, and trends, you’re not alone! Online marketing may seem complex, but it’s also one of the most effective ways to connect with new customers and grow your business.

In the video below, I break down the essentials, from building a website to leveraging social media, SEO, and beyond, so you can get started the smart way.

Let’s dive deeper into each topic and map out your beginner’s guide to online marketing.

Goals and Target Audience

Before you launch any marketing campaign, clarity is key. Ask yourself: What is your main goal? Do you want to generate leads, drive sales, or build brand awareness?

By defining your goals and understanding your target audience, you’ll know which platforms and types of content will work best for your needs. If you’re not sure how to research your audience, check out my resources on customer research.

Build a Strong Website

Your website is your online home base. To make a positive first impression and turn visitors into customers, ensure your website is:

Well-designed and easy to navigate:

People should find the information they want quickly and intuitively.

Focused with clear goals:

Whether you’re capturing leads or selling products, every element on your site should serve a purpose.

Loaded with fresh, relevant content:

Regular updates through articles, blogs, or product info keep both visitors and Google engaged.

Visually engaging:

Use images, videos, and infographics to break up content and capture attention.

Professionally presented:

A modern, clean layout builds trust and credibility.

SEO

Want customers to find you online? Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is essential. Optimizing your website with relevant keywords and a search-friendly structure increases your visibility in search results and brings organic (free!) traffic to your site. If you’re new to SEO, check out my beginner’s series for step-by-step guidance.

Pay-Per-Click Advertising

Need faster results? Pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, such as Google AdWords, allows you to target potential customers and only pay when someone clicks your ad. It’s a cost-effective strategy to quickly drive qualified traffic to your website.

Social Media

Social media isn’t just about sharing photos, it’s a business tool! Regular posting, customer interaction, and running promotions can boost brand awareness and customer loyalty. Not sure which platform to start with? The video dives into which channels make sense for your business.

Start Blogging

Blogging may seem daunting, but it’s a proven way to demonstrate expertise, attract visitors, and boost your SEO efforts. Share helpful tips, answer customer questions, and provide valuable industry insights right on your site.

Need ideas? Download my free list of 15 blog post ideas for beginners.

Email Marketing

Stay in touch with your audience and nurture leads by sending regular newsletters, promotions, and updates. Using a reputable email service provider helps ensure your emails land in inboxes, not spam folders.

Local Listings & Reviews

Claim your business on Google My Business and other directories like Yelp, BBB, and Facebook Reviews. This not only improves your search ranking, but it also builds trust with potential customers and gives you more ways to engage with your community.

Social Media Advertising

Amplify your reach through targeted social media ads. Platforms like Facebook let you zero in on your audience, boosting both traffic and conversions. You can also use retargeting to stay top-of-mind with interested visitors.

Online Marketing Is Just the Beginning

But online marketing is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to a smart marketing strategy. Let me ask you a question: Do you know how your marketing stacks up?

Find out by taking the SMART Marketing quiz. Get customized results on how to get smarter with your marketing, learn exactly what YOUR business should focus on, get recommendations for the best bang for your marketing buck, and unleash your business’s true potential. It’s like having a personal marketing coach by your side!

And remember, you don’t need crazy tech skills, buckets of cash, or a dedicated staff to market your business, and you don’t even need a lot of time.

What you need is to be smart, and online marketing is smart for your business.

If you're ready to grow your business with smart marketing you can:

1. Sign up for weekly FREE Business Bytes with CEO, Torie Mathis

2. Get a SMART Funnel and begin to automate your marketing

3. Learn Digital Marketing with a Smart Marketing Course

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: TORIE MATHIS

Torie Mathis helps entrepreneurs grow their business with Smart Marketing.  She is a best-selling author, Army veteran, international speaker + trainer, and the CEO + Creative Director at Lake Shark Media. She also teaches entrepreneurs how to get smart with digital marketing at toriemathis.com