Why Having A Web Site Matters
The reason is simple. Having your own site is one of the foundations of your online business. While you can use sites that are free, you don't control them. It's true that there are many marketers who have used these sites and are doing it successfully.
But just remember that there are also a lot of sad stories of how a successful business was kicked off the site that they were using, and now they have to start over.
All of their followers and fans gone. No way to contact them. And they have to scramble to find a way to restart their business.
That's why I recommend that you spend a few dollars and get your own domain name, hosting, and set up a site.
The site becomes your base of operations. It is where you can put up opt-in forms, sales pages, bridge pages, and build out funnels.
You can still use free sites, but you won't be left without a business if they shut down your account.
The good news is that is not difficult to do. There is a learning curve, but there are free videos and sites that will walk you through any steps you don't understand.
Start by registering a domain name. A lot of names are taken, but if your chosen name isn't available, you will usually be presented with a list of alternatives. When you choose the type of domain (.net, .com, ,info, etc.) make sure to check the price and see if it is a sale price. If it is a sale price, make sure to look at what the renewal rate is. Sometimes the renewal is a lot more expensive, so make sure that you are aware of that.
Hosting is easy as well. Do a search and you will find a ton of options. As an alternative to buying a domain name first, most hosting companies let you select a domain name and get hosting all at once. Saves time and can be more convenient.
Once you get hosting, you will get an email with instructions on how to connect your domain name with your hosting, if you registered the domain first.
You will also get you user name, password, and a link to access your cpanel account, the area where you will set up your email address and upload your web site files.
If this is your first site, one of the quickest and easiest ways to have a site is to install WordPress. Your cpanel account will usually have an installer where you can easily install WordPress onto your site. In a few minutes you can select a theme and have a fresh install ready for you to use.
If you're new to WordPress, you have access to lots of free videos and written tutorials that you can access. There are free and paid themes that you can install that will give you the look you want for your site.
Now you can add opt-in forms so you can build your list. You can start adding posts to get traffic to your site, and to offer affiliate products and your own products or services. Add sales pages, review pages, and just about any page you can think of.
Once you have a site of your own, you open up a world of possibilities for you and your business. It's a good idea to use sites that are free to use. Just use them as another asset in your online business.
That's my advice when it comes to setting up a foundation for an online business. Coming up: Your own email list. Stay tuned...
