Launching a new business is always exciting. We have big dreams and we are ready to fulfill them. We want to start looking for commercial premises or offices. Some of us even start thinking about department stores. It’s great to dream, but stay focused on reality.
If you’re launching a new business, you want to start online. Even if you’re ultimately opening a business that needs to exist in the brick-and-mortar world, rather than the virtual word, start with an effective online campaign. An online presence can help you get started.
1) Brick and Mortar Businesses
There are some businesses that need to exist in the “real world” instead of cyberspace. Hair salons, restaurants, bars, auto repair shops, etc. must all be physical locations. As you begin to put together your business plan, make sure your online marketing starts before you even open your store.
Start creating buzz online. Create a Facebook page; start a blog; announce pre-opening specials and promotions; start raising awareness that your business is about to open. This will help you attract people from day 1 instead of waiting for the ramp-up period that both online and offline marketing takes.
2) Online vs. brick and mortar
Some businesses may exist online before adding the cost of a physical location. For example, retail stores can be started online before opening a physical location. Use lower overhead as a way to offer better prices. If you feel strongly that your store should be a physical store, then the same rules as above apply. Start creating buzz before you even open. Have printable coupons for your grand opening. Use social networking sites and blogs as a way to introduce your soon-to-be-opened store. Get people talking about your store even before it’s open.
Some service-oriented businesses can also start online. For example, lawyers and accountants may have a website promoting their services before opening an office. You can use virtual office establishments for one address and receptionist and save a lot on staff and office space. Many of these also have conference rooms available for meetings. This is a cost effective way to build your practice.
Before you make a final decision, write down the pros and cons of your business having a physical location instead of just a website. Compare the pros and cons and make the best decision you can for your unique business.
3) Sell before day 1
Sites like Groupon.com can help you sell products even before you open your store. You can sell gift certificates, merchandise, etc. even before the lights go on. All you need is a website and you are in business.
You can have a website in minutes (check out GoDaddy’s Website Tonight™ or similar services) and start selling, capturing email addresses and building buzz. If you think you have to wait for your physical location to open, think again! You can start earning money even before your grand opening is scheduled.
The fact is that many businesses wait until they are established before creating their site. You can be much more successful if you establish a web presence before you open your doors.