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1) website address on billboards, business cards, flyers, stationary, balloons, pens, pencils 2) advertise on radio and television (if you have budget) 3) write press releases 4) network with businesses, friends, and relatives 5) join a tradebank association in your area (bartering services)
Don't expect your web designer/developer to operate and/or market your product or service for you It is tempting to expect your web designer/developer to operate your business and send customers to you, but in reality you should not expect this at all unless they offer it to you. Most of time, designer is there to design and developer is there for functionality of your website. There are designers and developers who will help you out, but don't expect them to - you need someone who specializes in online marketing.
Think about who will do maintenance on your website and how often You must know who will manage your website after it's completed. If you won't be one to manage it, ask your designer/developer if they will do maintenance for you. Be sure to ask fee, how often you will have to pay fee, and what is included in fee. If you have a brochure-type website with just contact information, I don't suggest purchasing a maintenance contract. If you have something like a newsletter, or e-commerce site, then it would be worth it to purchase a maintenance contract.
In a nutshell, you need to plan ahead before you jump into an online venture. It can save a lot of frustration and worry if you do your homework first. #
Regina Stevens is the owner of Keep It Simple Websites (http://keepitsimplewebsites). She writes computer articles for new computer and internet users.