4 Ways to Promote Your Business Online in 2012

Promoting your business has been easier than ever. Instead of wasting money with print advertising, the Internet enables us to take advantage of money saving alternatives. 

Do you own a website? How many social media channels is your business currently involved in? Does your business have a blog that is frequently updated?

All of these alternatives are essential to businesses in 2012, however, many may not be taking advantage of these cost saving solutions.

• Create Social Media Accounts - Over 65 percent of adult internet users in the United States are on some sort of a social networking website. With that being said, social media channels should be your first alternative solution to print advertising. Social media platforms are at no cost to your business, and platforms can easily be learned with practice. Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Pinterest and YouTube are great channels to begin learning.
• Develop A Company Blog --  By developing a company blog, you will provide your business with the opportunity to be heard among blogger communities. Along with providing with free content to your niche, you also assist with your businesses search engine optimization. If you're not sure which blog platform to use, try Typepad, Blogger or Wordpress. 
• Be Part Of Your Community By Commenting On Other Websites -- Explore your businesses's community. In order to promote your business in your niche, you need to interact with members in your niche. Don't be afraid to visit other websites and leave comments. Remember: make sure your comments are worthwhile. You will be followed for quality, not quantity.
• Make The Press Come To You -- There is nothing wrong with old-fashioned press releases, as long as you have a place to disburse them. The press will not find you for your newsworthy accomplishments, which means the burden is on you. Press releases are easy to write and will assist in your exposure. If you're not sure where to send your press releases, try PRLog and 24/7 Press Release.

How are you promoting your business online in 2012?