Marketing 6 - Old City Web Services

Rise of the Solopreneur – How to brand yourself

July 31, 2013 by anoadmin Leave a Comment

Strong branding is crucial in our ad-cultured world. It is important to ensure that you're the first person in your field that enters customers' minds. This can be a somewhat daunting task when it's just you-the entrepreneur who works solo. You may ask yourself: How can I stand out and become memorable in the minds of others? Simple- professional branding. Below are two things to remember when branding or re-branding yourself as a one-man or one-woman business:

1. Simplicity

When it comes to branding yourself, clarity of expression, or simplicity, is key. Having a logo that is too busy or filled with trivial detail can come across as confusing or even pretentious in some cases. A consumer will generally just take a brief glimpse at a logo and in those few seconds, you must grab their attention. It's no coincidence that the most memorable logos are also the most simple in appearance. Although larger corporations such as Cocoa Cola, Target and Nike may first come to mind, it's important to remember that even Solopreneurs and small businesses choose simplicity over complexity when choosing their logo.

Individuals that utilize simplicity (click on the names below to view logo)

2. Consistency

Once you have come up with your branding, don't shy away from it. Use it everywhere...and I mean everywhere! I'm talking new business and rack cards, advertising, stationary and of course, your website and social media networks. With this being said, take the time to generate a plan for exposing your new brand to the public and the media, but be confident in your new brand. If you don't believe in yourself, nobody else will.

Need a professional and skilled graphic design team to assist in your branding efforts? Old City Web Services specializes in providing small businesses, entrepreneurs and solopreneurs with everything from logo design and development to complete re-branding campaigns.

Here's a look at some of our recent logo development work for local clients (click on the name below to view logo)

For more information, give us a call: 904.829.2772 or email us: letusmarketyou@oldcity.com! You can also view some of our branding work on our website - just Click Here!

Square-up your business!

July 24, 2013 by anoadmin Leave a Comment

According to Jack Dorsey, the founder of Twitter, "Square is the shape of things to come." The Square has built-up its reputation on a small credit card reader that plugs into the headphone jack of an iPhone or iPad and allows any user to accept credit card payments using an app. This new technology has taken off and is used by thousands of merchants across the world. From taxi cab drivers to lawn care, the Square is one of the most valuable devices for small businesses. Of course, with any new product, there are pros and cons for the Square. It may be your perfect solution or you may want to choose a similar product, but either way it is something to consider. Below are three arguments why the Square is the product of choice for many small businesses:

1. Efficiency

The Square is small, compact and easy to use. This tiny device allows for a smooth transaction process that makes accepting credit cards a breeze for you and your customers.

2. Convenience

Let's face it- how often do you not carry your phone with you? This handy Square connects right to your phone and can go anywhere with you. Avoid the hassle of cashing a check or depositing cash with the Square. The buyer is happy because of the convenience of emailed receipts and an expedited process. Besides, the Square makes you look professional and up-to-date with the newest technology trends!

3. Cost Effective

The Square integrates with your existing merchant account and doesn't have any costly start-up fees, therefore it is cheaper than some iPhone credit card processing services that are costly and require a flat monthly fee. Square provides an option for users to choose whether they want a monthly rate or a percentage deducted per swipe. The per swipe fee is 2.75%, however when a card is not present, the percentage is increased--something to consider before choosing the Square. Hint: Take a look at your customers buying history and determine what type of payments they are most likely to make. If you handle large transactions in person where the card is present, this may be your most cost effective solution.

Want to know more about the Square card reader for iPhone or learn about other innovative technology trends? Old City Web Services can help! Begin minimizing your stress and maximizing your profits today by giving us a call: 904.829.2772 or emailing us: letusmarketyou@oldcity.com for more information.

Why use PayPal?

July 17, 2013 by anoadmin Leave a Comment

If you're thinking about selling products or services online, you may want to consider PayPal as your method for securing online transactions. PayPal is great for integrating into Content Management Systems and makes it easy to place a link directly on your site. PayPal also works well with many handy plugins. Below are four reasons PayPal makes it easy for small businesses to sell merchandise online:

1. Set-up made easy!

The first step is to sign-up for a free PayPal account. There are various types of PayPal accounts. If you are just starting out and don't plan on selling very high-ticket items, you may want to choose the personal account for the first couple of months. You can always upgrade to the Premier or Business account anytime you want.

2. Notifications

Once a customer submits their online payment through your PayPal account, you will receive an email notification sent to the primary email address on your account. Even if a buyer pays with an e-check, PayPal will let you know the transaction is pending approval. This makes for easy bookkeeping and organization of your online transactions.

3. Shipping Capabilities

PayPal will handle all of your shipping needs using standard shipping rates depending on the service you choose. PayPal allows you to print invoices quickly and easily. Hint: For larger items or customers that choose expedited shipping, compare shipping rates between USPS, UPS and Fed Ex to guarantee the best rate.

4. Reporting Tools

PayPal's Reporting Tools provide you with the information you need to effectively measure and manage your small business. These tools are important in tracking transactions, comparing customer trends and will make you more profitable. With PayPal's Reporting Tools, you can:

Analyze your revenue sources to better understand your customers' buying behavior
Automate time-consuming bookkeeping tasks
Accurately settle and reconcile transactions

Want to know more about PayPal for your business? Old City Web Services can help! From determining the best type of account for your business needs to integrating PayPal into your existing or new website. We'll minimize your stress and get you on your way to online payment success. Give us a call: 904.829.2772 or email us: letusmarketyou@oldcity.com for more information.

3 tips on advertising your business online

July 10, 2013 by anoadmin Leave a Comment

Making room in your marketing mix for online advertising does not always have to burn a hole in your wallet. There are numerous inexpensive ways to advertise your business online that can have just as big of a return as some of the more costly ways. Below are 3 cost-effective tips on advertising your business online:

1. Get local

First, make sure your business is claimed on local listings such as Google Places, Yahoo Local and Bing Places for Business. Take advantage of these free tools that will increase your search result rankings for locals or visitors searching online in your area. Also, don't forget to utilize community sites that have a proven track record of high volume visitors. If you are a local shop, restaurant, B&B or other St. Augustine business that is not taking advantage of advertising on OldCity.com, you should seriously consider it! Advertising or having your business listed (and back-linked to your website) is the most cost-effectively way to get the word out about your business to a more targeted group. It's this simple: Our traffic becomes your traffic.

2.Try Facebook Ads

We've said it before and we'll say it again -- but this time with some stats! In 2010, the total Florida population was 18,732,783 and 42% or7,839,520 people were Facebook users!(www.internetworldstats.com). Furthermore, you can expect the number of Facebook users has nearly doubled in the last 3 years. Why choose Facebook? For the simple fact that it allows you to create several ads and target them based on location, demographics and interests. It's directed, effective and most importantly - affordable.

3. Publish Yourself

It's not nearly as difficult to get published these days as we see many more credible online publications forming. How does it work? Submit articles, PSA's, press releases, news releases, etc. to various reputable and local websites. In return for your content, many of these websites will offer back-links to your website providing you with potential traffic and leads for your business. This will also help you become established as an expert in your field or industry.

Want to start advertising your business online today, but would rather let an expert help? Contact Old City Web Services today! We'll take the stress off your shoulders by determining the online advertising outlet(s) that's best suited for your business needs. Give us a call: 904.829.2772 or email us: letusmarketyou@oldcity.com for more information.

What is RSS and is it still important?

June 26, 2013 by anoadmin Leave a Comment

What does RSS stand for? It stands for Really Simple Syndication. Now you're probably saying to yourself, "Okay, but what is it?" Here's our simple answer: RSS feeds gives readers a method to keep up with their favorite blogs, online news and any other favorite websites. Anyone can choose the sites they wish to subscribe to and then receive updates in one centralized location. In essence, RSS allows content to come to you. Pretty neat idea huh?

How can RSS feeds help your business? Simple-- If you're a website owner or blogger, RSS is a means to gain a loyal following of internet users. It helps grow your website by keeping you in the forefront of readers mind while they're browsing their feed. As a small business, you may not update your web content as often as you should or you may choose not maintain a blog, however RSS just gives you more of a reason to do just that. You can track how many users subscribe to your feeds and focus your messages on what they want to hear.

If you sell products online, RSS will allow consumers to stay up-to-date on your newest items and specials. Who knows--these subscribers may likely be your next in-store customer! If you are a travel blogger, RSS will allow people to subscribe to your posts and increase your number of readers. If you post upcoming events, news or press releases on your site, RSS feeds will allow subscribers to view this content every time you update it.

Users can sign-up for your feeds using multiple platforms such as Google Reader, My Yahoo and various mobile apps.

Need help setting up RSS feeds on your website or blog? Old City Web Services offers training services that will teach you how to set up your very own RSS feed system to best suit your business. Contact us today to help you get started! Give us a call: 904.829.2772 or email us: letusmarketyou@oldcity.com for more information.

Want to stay up-to-date on happenings around our Nation's Oldest City? Become a subscriber to our Calendar of Events that's updated daily! Click on the icon below to subscribe for free:

Feeling flustered over social media?

May 1, 2013 by anoadmin Leave a Comment

Managing your own social media networking sites for your business is not a small fleet! Many business owners avoid social media marketing all together since it doesn't typically have an immediate monetary return, however if you're leaving this out of your marketing mix, you're turning down infinite potential leads and important consumer engagement.

Most likely your customers are already online searching and talking about you so join in on the conversation! According to Harry Menta, public affairs specialist for the U.S. Small Business Administration, "The more you embrace social media, the more opportunities open up for your particular business. Small-business owners have to realize that not all social media may be a fit for them, but they shouldn't just sit on the sidelines. They need to investigate the possibilities."With this being said, knowing what networks to join and who to connect with are important things to consider before signing up for every social media network out there. Additionally, it's key to remember that having a personal Facebook page is not the same thing as maintaining a professional Facebook Business Page.

Feeling overwhelmed yet? Not to fear, Old City is here! Our professional social media experts can take care of all your social media problems, no matter where you stand in the world of social networking. We can conduct preliminary research, set up your accounts (the right way) and train you and your staff on how to manage your accounts. We will give you tips, trends and time-saving resources that will help boost your social rankings and two-way communication with customers.

Start learning how to manage the day-to-day tasks of posting, tweeting, blogging, sharing, pinning and linking today! Give us a call: 904.829.2772 or email us: letusmarketyou@oldcity.com

to schedule your free one-hour consultation.

The 411 on E-Mail Marketing

November 21, 2012 by anoadmin Leave a Comment

E-mail marketing allows you to reach a mass number of people quickly & efficiently (plus it's affordable)! There are many free or cost-effective e-mail marketing websites available, however it's how you're utilizing these programs that's most important.

Quality over Quantity

E-mail marketing is the key to delivering content to your prospective customers. It is essential to conduct research prior to sending out these messages. You must segment your contact lists based on the needs of your clients and the purchasing stage they are in. Ask yourself-- what do these prospects already know about my products and services & how likely are they to purchase? Develop buyer profiles and personas to determine what key messages need to be delivered to each segmented audience. Hint: It's important to realize when you first begin to utilize e-mail marketing that the quality of your prospects greatly outweighs the quantity.

Call to Action

Any successful e-mail marketing campaign has a clear Call to Action. You may develop a beautifully designed and easy-to-read message, but without a visible and prominent Call to Action, your prospects will not know where to click, what to follow, or how to buy. Step #1 is to set a single goal - what is the purpose of your message? Are you trying to gain traffic to your site or blog or are you trying to bring prospects to a specific products' landing page? Make sure that your Call to Action is unique to each of your segments. Hint: Email marketers have seen a steady rise in mobile subscribers. Treat this group as a new segment to increase relevance and response.

Practice makes Perfect

There are hundred of variables that you can test out to determine what's working and what to cut. You should test out design variables: layout, colors & fonts and user-interface such as buttons and links. Analyze your test results and make changes accordingly. Hint: Don't forget to test the time in which you send or schedule your messages. This is crucial in guaranteeing your audience is receiving your messages & will be determinant on what stage of the buying process their in.

Let Old City Web Services help your business with your e-mail marketing needs!

5 Ways to Integrate Social Media into the Mix

October 10, 2012 by anoadmin Leave a Comment

1.) A Social Website

A call-to-action from any source drives customers to your website. Linking your social networking sites to your home or landing page, allows people to to be driven directly to the product/services you want them to see. Not only are you going to gain a higher volume of website traffic, but you will automatically be able to engage with your customers and discover a unique target audience.

2.) Create a Viral Component

Integrate your social media platforms into your traditional marketing mix. Develop a way for your audience to be involved by creating a contest, giveaway or promotion by using traditional advertising mediums and social media networks. For example: Chick-Fil-A promotes their notorious receipt day using outdoor and print advertising, however it became a viral component when they started utilizing Twitter as a micro-marketing tactic to spread the word across the internet.

3.) Socialize your Signature

This can be as simple as adding social buttons into your e-mail signature asking the recipient to follow you, like you and sign up for your RSS feeds. This is a two-way street so you must also put an app or button on your social media sites, asking people to sign up for your weekly e-newsletters. Many e-mail marketing programs offer you the ability to share e-blasts with your fans on Facebook or followers on Twitter. This way you can convert social followers into e-mail contacts.

4.) Blog, Blog, Blog

A company blog that is updated frequently can be an extremely useful marketing strategy. A successful company blog tells its audience useful information and gives insight on their products and services. This is an excellent resource for small businesses to stand out, show their credibility and share expert advice. A company blog is a great opportunity to enhance your SEO, create content for your Facebook page and find out what your audience is saying about you.

5.) Crisis Communication

A crisis has occurred and you need to reach your entire audience immediately. TV, radio and print media are not always the fastest strategy. This is where integrating social media becomes essential. Social networking sites, blogs, RSS feeds, mass text messages and e-blasts give you the potential to communicate relevant messages to a mass group of people in an instant. This also allows you to keep the lines of communication open and gives you the ability to respond honestly to concerned citizens/customers.

Find out more on how to utilize social media to its fullest potential by joining Our Mailing List & signing up for one of our business clinics!

Pinterest: How can it help your business?

August 16, 2012 by anoadmin Leave a Comment

Is Pinterest right for your business?

By now you've probably heard about the latest social media craze known as Pinterest. Essentially, Pinterest is a virtual bulletin board where users can share items they find on the web by "pinning" them to their boards for everyone to see.

Although the website (www.pinterest.com) is most popular with women, there are a growing number of men using the site as well. Pinterest offers a broad range of categories from DIY projects and fashion ideas to gardening and science.

But is it right for your business?

If you're trying to reach customers under the age of 50, especially women, Pinterest should definitely be a part of your social media strategy.

Other businesses can benefit from it as well, but it can be time-consuming, so do some research to find out if your customers are using Pinterest before you dive in and start pinning away!

What can you share on Pinterest?

Everything! Well, just about everything. No more than 50% of the links and photos you add to Pinterest should be promoting your own business. You don't want your customers to feel like they're being bombarded with promotions, which is why it is important to share photos and links that compliment your product or service.

For example, if you are a B&B in St. Augustine, you should share photos of your rooms, breakfast menus, etc. but also share links and information to things to do and see while your guests are in St. Augustine. You could start a board featuring photos and links to restaurants within walking distance of your B&B or create a romance-themed board to display great ideas for couples like carriage rides, massages, etc.

Be creative!

Unlike some other social media websites, Pinterest works best for your business when you think outside the box. Find creative ways to share your business' service or product

If you run a restaurant, for example, you don't have to load your Pinterest account with pictures of food (though you should certainly have a few!). You could also share ideas for table settings, recipes customers can try at home, a how-to guide on plate presentations, or information about live entertainment featured at your restaurant. There are almost endless possibilities!

Save time and blend your social media accounts.

Pinterest and Facebook can easily be linked together so you can share your pins with your Facebook followers as well! Do you struggle to come up with post ideas for Facebook? Well, if you link your Pinterest and Facebook accounts, you can easily share links and photos from Pinterest on Facebook. So with a few clicks, you can update two of your social media accounts at the same time! Perfect!

What are you waiting for? Give it a shot!

If you've got some great pictures, links and ideas to share with your customers, jump on Pinterest today! It's free to sign up and get to pinning!

After you sign up , give us a call so we can add a link to your website for visitors to find you on Pinterest! We're also available by phone and e-mail if you have more questions about using Pinterest for your business:

904-867-4112

letusmarketyou@oldcity.com.