From Website to Sales – Why Internet Marketing Is More Than Just Setup

Entering the world of online marketing can seem deceptively simple. For many newcomers, the process might look like this: find a product, build a website, set up an order system, run a few ads, and wait for the sales to start pouring in. However, this perspective vastly underestimates the complexity and depth of what it truly means to market effectively online.

At first glance, online marketing might seem like a straightforward task, especially if you’re used to traditional marketing methods. But the reality is that internet marketing is much more nuanced. The term “marketing” itself carries significant weight and involves a strategic approach to promoting and selling products or services. The core of online marketing is not just about having a website or running ads—it’s about creating a comprehensive strategy to attract and convert customers.

The essential components of an online marketing strategy include building a functional website, integrating an order system, setting up a newsletter, and mastering search engine optimization (SEO). While these elements are critical for laying the groundwork of your online business, they only create the framework necessary for marketing. The real challenge—and the real work—lies in effectively using these tools to drive traffic and generate sales.

Before you invest time and money into setting up your online business, it’s crucial to recognize your role as a salesperson. Many people struggle with this concept because of common stereotypes about salespeople. The perception that salespeople are pushy or dishonest can be a significant barrier. However, it’s important to understand that most sales professionals are ordinary people doing their job with integrity.

Embracing the role of a salesperson means understanding that you need to actively sell your product or service. This involves finding potential customers, engaging them, and convincing them to make a purchase. It’s not enough to rely on your website to do the selling for you. As a business owner, you need to be proactive in reaching out to your target audience and addressing their needs and concerns.

Two Approaches to Overcoming the Sales Challenge

If the idea of being a salesperson feels uncomfortable, you have two primary options:

1. Learn and Adapt: Embrace your role as a salesperson by educating yourself about online marketing. There are numerous resources and successful marketers who offer valuable insights.

Look into the works of renowned experts like Jim Edwards, Ken Evoy, and Terry Dean. Each of these marketers has their own style and strategies, and studying their approaches can provide you with practical tips and inspiration. By learning from these experts, you can develop a more effective marketing strategy and enhance your sales skills.

2. Delegate the Role: If you find that you’re not comfortable taking on the role of salesperson, consider delegating this responsibility. You might bring on a business partner who excels in marketing or hire a professional to handle your marketing efforts.

While this approach can be costly, it’s crucial for the success of your business. Marketing needs to be a central focus of your business strategy, and having someone who is skilled in this area can significantly improve your chances of success.

The Impact of Marketing on Business Success

The reality is that many online businesses fail, and only a small percentage achieve significant success. One of the key factors in determining success is how seriously the business owner treats marketing. Those who succeed are often those who prioritize marketing and understand its importance in driving business growth.

Conclusion

Failing to appreciate the complexity of internet marketing and the need to be an effective salesperson is a common mistake among new online entrepreneurs. Understanding that online marketing is not just about setting up a website but about actively engaging with potential customers and driving sales is crucial.

Whether you choose to develop your own marketing skills or hire someone to handle it, acknowledging the importance of marketing and making it a central part of your business strategy will greatly enhance your chances of success.

Remember, online marketing is a dynamic field that requires continuous learning and adaptation. By embracing your role as a salesperson and prioritizing marketing, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the challenges of the digital marketplace and achieve your business goals.

You may also like: