Step 5: Launch Your Web Site
You've decided to create a Web site, brainstormed about its contents, chosen a Web hosting company, and approved each newly-created page.
Now it's time for the last step: pressing the "publish" button so the world can see, visit, and bookmark your site to learn about in-store products, new merchandise, and events that keep them coming back.
When you press the "publish" button, all of the files associated with the Web site you created on your store computer is copied onto your Web host's specialized machines, and from there, the world is able to view your Internet site each time they return to your unique Web address.
Don't be alarmed -- when the button is pressed, I can guarantee that you're the only person viewing the site.
If there are any misspellings or edits to fix immediately, it's easy to make the changes and re-publish the entire site or just one page.
No one in the Internet world will be watching while you make these updates.
Customers won't arrive at the store expressing their dismay because one word on your Internet site was incorrectly spelled.
They're more interested in finding the merchandise you promote on each page, or entering the contest explained online, or meeting the artist who's listed on your online calendar as today's in-store special guest.
There's something about taking that last button-pressing step that stirs up apprehension. You've come so far; it's time to let everyone virtually visit your shop. Soon after you'll find yourself (or the webmaster):
- Changing pages
- Adding new merchandise photographs
- Deleting old information
- And providing your Web site with the same type of maintenance periodically completed in the store.
You're now part of a select few retailers who've decided to create an online presence. Be proud of your accomplishments. It seems as though it was just yesterday when you decided to start a site.
Now when customers ask, "Are you online," you can proudly say "yes," and encourage them to visit with a quick overview of what they'll find on your site.
This is just the first round for you as a newly-crowned Internet retailer. Soon you'll be:
- Publishing a newsletter
- Contacting customers by Email
- Adding coupons to sell close-out merchandise
- Exchanging links with area stores
- Learning about search engine optimization to increase your site's visibility
These are some of the topics explained at my seminars and trade show presentations. Call me at 973-279-2799 to book an appearance. The audience will thank you for a great event.
Review all five steps once again before you begin creating your first Web site. I appreciate you considering this site as your mentor and wish you success.
Step 2: Register Your Domain Name
Step 4: Get Your Staff Involved
