In today’s word, more and more consumers are turning to the internet to find the products and services that they need. Therefore, online marketing is an integral part of running a business. By 2016, more than half of the dollars spent in the US retail sector will be influenced by online marketing and web presence. In fact, effective online marketing should be multi faceted, incorporating SEO, social media marketing, and web design.

A high quality, professional website is the cornerstone of any effective online marketing program. However, effective web design can be tricky, requiring extensive knowledge of HTML and coding. Furthermore, graphic designers are an important piece of the web design puzzle, as are effective copywriters and Seo analysts. Mobile web design and development services are also essential, as nearly half of all Americans are now using smartphones with access to the internet. Mobile web design and development services help to ensure that your website is accessible via mobile phones. Overall, hiring a professional for web design can help to ensure a high quality, informative, and professional website.

Of course, SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, is a particularly important aspect of online marketing. In fact, according to SEMPO, the North American search engine marketing industry will be valued at nearly $23B by the end of 2012. Many companies invest thousand into web design and development but do little to enhance their website’s visibility and ensure that it is actually seen by potential customers. Studies show that when consumers utilize an internet search engine they typically click on the first link that meets their criteria and are unlikely to scroll through pages and pages of results. Therefore, the higher a website appears in search engine results pages, the more likely a consumer is to visit that website. It is also essential that a website appear in organic, as opposed to sponsored links: Approximately three quarters of Internet search engine users say that they avoid paid advertisements, clicking on only organic links instead. SEO, which raises a website’s ranking in search engine results, is thus a crucial part of effective online marketing.

Lastly, social media is also an essential part of internet marketing. Nine out of ten adults who are online use social media extensively, meaning it is a great way to reach out to potential customers. Overall, effective online marketing can help to boost online sales. More info like this: www.hope.edu