Ecommerce Solutions: Internet Communication as an Online Marketing Tool

Using Internet communication offers a real marketing advantage. Questionnaires are helpful in finding new customers, so consider using a short online questionnaire to help bring new leads. However, it is important to be mindful of people's time and not interrogate or use too many blanks. Make sure the submit button is large enough for easy viewing and clicking. Use an incentive to get people to respond to you, like a consultation, catalog, and free samples.

Be sure to check with an attorney if you're going to run a contest. Remember, just because your day is full doesn't mean it was productive. Constantly evaluate how you're spending your time and compare it to your sales results. When you get people's E-mail addresses, be discriminating in how often you write them. Don't just send mass E-mails of information most people won't care about.

Remember to keep secrets just that - competitors can access your site just as easily as customers. Respond quickly to information requests. A good rule is to update your Web site every two weeks. If you don't use the Internet as a tool in your selling, now is the right time to get started.

The Internet is booming, and waiting to get on board is a major business handicap. Your business is about helping people, so make sure all your online communication is customer-oriented. Consider buying a book on how to search the Internet for the right information.

Always have a plan in mind, whether you're searching Google or building a Web site. Use E-mail as a follow-up tool after meetings and phone calls. However, don't forget the art of written communication - still write and mail "Thank you" notes

Make sure your E-mails and Web site use proper grammar and spelling, as they represent you and your product or service. Never bash a competitor or give away information you don't want the whole world to know, especially in E-mail or on the Web. Realize E-mails can be forwarded, so use caution when discussing important matters. Take advantage of the opportunity to do Internet background work on customers before meeting them in person or talking on the phone.

Questions To Consider:

How do you plan to use the Internet to help your business objectives?

Write down some examples of information you could get by using an online questionnaire.

What kind of information on a prospective customer could you try to find on the Internet to help your chances of selling to him?