Intelligent SME.tech Issue 42 | Page 51

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// INTELLIGENT SECTION //

Five tips for small business owners to help grow their business online

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FINANCE | SALES & MARKETING | CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE | HR SOLUTIONS mall businesses are embracing digitalisation and catering to their customer needs through a variety of online channels . With new technologies emerging , such as AI , there is no time like the present to help your small business grow by taking advantage of the online world . With this in mind , GoDaddy shares five tips to help your small business grow with an online presence .
It starts with a domain name
When getting started , check availability of domain names for the desired name . A domain name can be considered a business ’ piece of real estate and identity on the Internet . It is a way for customers to easily find a business online .
Choosing and registering a domain name for your business that ’ s memorable is increasingly important in an expanding digital marketplace , as it helps to shape your online business identity . If the . com extension is not available , there are many new extensions available , such as : . shop ; . co .; . photography ; . tech , to name a few , for you to consider which can help define your business . After choosing a domain name register it with a reliable hosting provider right away .
Build a website
Websites help create visibility for small businesses and acts as a home base for your business on the Internet , even if you have a brick-and-mortar store . A website can help consumers easily find your business , learn about your product offerings and services and contact you for more information .
A well-designed professional looking website can offer an engaging customer experience with the use of text along

THE GROWTH
OF YOUR BUSINESS IS DIRECTLY RELATED TO CUSTOMER SATISFACTION .
with photo images and video . Having a website gives you control over the messaging about your business and can serve as a hub by linking with your social media channels .
Listen to your customers
The growth of your business is directly related to customer satisfaction . Listen to your customers and pay attention to the needs of your target market . Identify their problems and pain points . How can your offerings act as a solution ? Is it possible to develop new products to help solve these problems ? Engage for customer feedback and keep an eye on customer behaviour changes and audience interests .
Develop a business support system
By developing a strong business support system , entrepreneurs can benefit from new ideas on ways to address a particular issue or ideas for growth . In addition to close family and friends , consider mentors and business coaches who can provide relevant insights into your business .
Review your business plan
Many entrepreneurs make a business plan at the beginning of their business journey , but do not take the time to revisit it from timeto-time . So , analysing aspects of that business plan like target audience and competitors , examining cash flows and what can make the business profitable , while also checking timelines to reach business goals is all equally essential to help ensure continued growth of your business . �
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