Boost business' online presence

In today's digital landscape, a business' failure to create an online presence can lead to a host of missed opportunities. It is imperative for small businesses to create online identities to be able to compete in the local and global markets.

Having a Web site alone may not be enough to compete for business today. While it is essential to have a Web site where customers can get an idea of what your business represents and the types of products and services you offer, you also should maintain a Web presence apart from your Web site. This can be achieved through various forms of social media and can direct traffic back to your Web site.

Here are some ways to tailor your Web presence and help to generate more business.

* Establish your Web site today. Creating a 24-hour business may not be possible unless you own a convenience store that is open around the clock. However, by setting up a Web site, you're essentially creating hours that fit with all prospective customers. A Web site enables potential customers to shop or gather more information about your services on their own schedules and not strictly during store hours.

* Start a Facebook business page. Facebook states that it has more than 600 million people visit its site each month and that roughly half log on each day. As a result, having a presence on Facebook is one of the least expensive and most expansive methods of marketing your product or service. According to eMarketer, 66 percent of businesses that use Facebook interact through their page or update content at least once a week. Create a fan page where you can post information and updates, as well as generic material that keeps readers interested but isn't peppered with sales information. Individuals can "like" your page and stay abreast of business news.

* Get blogging. It is important to note that Web site positioning on search engines is generally dependent on how much information you have published. Frequently posting to a blog or mentioning your Web site and business through other social media sites increases your online presence. It also can increase the visibility of your Web site via search engine optimization.

* Create a QR code. A QR, or quick response, code is one of those funny-looking square codes popping up just about everywhere. People can scan the code with a smartphone and link directly to your Web site.