How do I get more people to visit my website?  That is the number one question I get from my clients. So, I decided to put together a top 10 list that will work for both businesses and non-profit organizations.

1. Make sure your website has your keywords in the META TAGS.  This is probably the most important strategy to increase traffic to your site.  Search engines like Google, Bing, and Yahoo use "spiders" to crawl your website looking for clues as to what your site is all about.  These meta tags make their search easier.  In return, they give your website a higher ranking.  Here is a suggested list of  "Tag Locations"  you should consider:
   • Add your keyword or phrase in your web title
   • Add your keywords in the first paragraph of your body text.
   • Add your keywords in the ALT attribute of image tags.
   • Make your website search engine friendly.
   • Use your keywords in hyperlinks
2. Add your listing on the internet.   There are free listings for you to add your business information to such as Google Places for Business, Yahoo! Local, and Bing Local Listing Center.  Make sure they can find you.
3. Submit your site to Free Directories.  There are business and non-profit directories on the internet that are focused on particular industries such as fashion or education.  Even if you have to pay a small fee to be a part of these directories, it will give you and your business more exposure.
4. Write Articles About Your Business.  You can increase your traffic to your website when you write articles in your area of expertise and submit them to editors as free content for their websites.  This is an effective “viral” approach that can lead hundreds of potential customers to your site over time.
5. Create a Blog.  If you have excellent content, people will more than likely link to it, increasing your site's search page ranking. Consistency and quality of the content are key.
6. Join a Social Media Community. Some of the best online social media sites for businesses include Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter.  Also, search for social networking communities that your market is concentrated in.  For example, my major client base is African-American businesses.  I joined Black Business Women Online, Blacks Network, and iZania.
7. Join Online Forums and Groups.  The Internet offers thousands of discussion lists, online forums, and groups consisting of people with specialized interests.  You can join these sites and promote your business through interaction.  Just search on Google, Bing, or Yahoo to find appropriate groups, blogs or other forums.
8. Include Your Website's Address on Stationery, Cards, and Literature.  Make sure that all business cards, stationery, brochures, and literature contain your company’s website.   To go even a step further,  place your business name and website on a t-shirt and wear it while you are out running errands.
9. Use the “Signature” function in your Email Program.  Most email programs allow you to create a “signature” at the bottom of your composed email.  This signature should consist of: Company name, address, phone number, website, email address, and a one-phrase description of your unique business offering. Look for examples on email messages sent to you.
10. Email A Monthly Newsletter. While it requires a commitment of creativity and time, creating a monthly email publication is one of the most important promotion techniques. It could be a newsletter, list of tips, industry updates, or new product information — whatever you believe your customers will appreciate. This is a great way to keep in touch with your current clients and prospects.  I am starting my monthly newsletter (Small Business & Online Marketing Tips) this May!  If you are interested in receiving a copy, you can sign-up at my website at www.gostudiogreen.com.

These are certainly not all of the ways to promote your site, but these tips will get you started. To effectively market your site, you need to spend time adapting these strategies to your own market and capacity. Right now, why not take the time to go over this checklist with someone who shares your business interest?  Use this checklist to take your business or organization to the next level!