What would you say if I told you that there was a free and easy way to get your Website address—and even your business name—in front of hundreds of people?
If you are like most folks you would either say, “Great sign me up!”, or “Okay, what is the catch?”
Not to worry. There is no catch. And I am not going to suggest you stand on the side of the road wearing a bunny suit and holding a sign (though that can work well in the right situations).
Instead I want to tell you about one small change that can make a really big impact on your business success. This is one of those things that seems like a total no-brainer. Yet I’m always amazed by how many entrepreneurs still aren’t taking doing this. And it’s costing them business.
What is it…?
…It’s using your Website domain for your email address.
Because if your email address ends in yahoo.com, bellsouth.net, hotmail.com, gmail or any other name other than your own domain name (ie: your Web address), you are missing out. Even if you have “your business name” @ whatever.com, it still doesn’t have the same marketing impact.
Why?
1) Because having a Website gives your business a lot of credibility. If your email doesn’t end with your Web address then your business doesn’t look as successful, established or legit. When it does you instantly seem more professional.
2) More importantly, when your email address is linked to your Website, every time you send an email people see it. And every time you hand out your business card, people see it two or even three times.
When someone sees your business name over and over, it becomes more familiar. Studies have shown that when consumers have to choose between two similar products, all other things being equal they are far more likely to choose the more familiar name.
Besides which, half the battle in making sales is just making sure people recognize your business name and are thinking of you. Because unless they’re thinking of you, they’ll probably never decide to buy from you or pass your name on to someone else.
3) Plus some folks will see your Web address in your email, and get online to check it out ( I do that all the time!). And that could result in a sale right there. Free advertising like this just can not be beat.
The best part about making this change is that it is incredibly easy, and usually doesn’t cost a thing. All you need is a domain name.
Most Web hosting companies—including the ones that sell domain names—offer a certain number of email addresses (usually anywhere from 3 to 10) at no extra cost as part of your hosting package. All you have to do is give them a call and ask them to set it up.
Even if you can’t afford to have a Website built right now, you can go ahead and buy a domain name. Then just put up a business card page with your contact info and have your email address set up.
Don’t want to give up your current email address? Don’t worry. You don’t have to. Simply have your hosting company forward all the mail to your current email address.
Once you have your new email address, put it on everything! Add it to your letterhead. Make sure it’s on your business card. And give it out to everyone.
Before you know it, you’ll meet people for the first time and hear them say the magic words, “Oh, I’ve heard of your business…”
