- Image by Gary Hayes via Flickr
I have been noticing a worrisome trend lately. Many businesses have decided to go with social media (i.e. Facebook, Twitter, etc.) before making sure that 1) their website is fully optimized for users (or search engines), or 2) that their website is fully functional.
While I agree that using social media is a very useful technique for pushing people to a website, there needs to be a fully usable website on the other end. There is nothing so frustrating as following a link in Twitter, only to discover that the information you’re interested in can’t be found on that particular page.
Another problem is that social media is transient in its very nature. What is popular today may not be popular tomorrow. You must make sure that your website will be found by people who are not only active in social media, but who are looking for your site in the search engines using particular keywords.
Before you jump on the social media bandwagon, you must make sure that your website is not only user-friendly, but search engine friendly as well. Optimizing your website is crucial for the long term. I know, I know, doing SEO on your website is not as exciting as posting to your friends on Twitter, but think of it as a necessity, as a way of standing out in the crowd of websites.
This is actually a pretty informative site, and I don’t say that for just any! I’m definitely going to be a regular reader. I’m looking to get into the Internet marketing industry (mainly SEO stuff), so every little bit helps! I’m definitely a fan of any web relate news and info. Cheers! =)
Superb post! will be adding you to my feeds and blogroll!
I would like to use the information for my blog. I’ll post a link to this post, and I won’t rip the entire post. I more just want to use what you have here to paraphrase. Please email me and tell me if it’s alright.
Kaey, go ahead.
Oh my gosh, this is sooooo true. Where is the website?? I have experienced this first hand. I don’t recall exactly what I was “business” I was looking at on their Facebook page, but their website was still “under construction”. Not a big deal, but this is very good advice. Dean.
I agree. Many people who have a social media presence don’t even have a website. The website should always be the main focus. Social media is just a means of driving traffic and creating awareness.
Great blog! Do you have any helpful hints for aspiring writers? I’m hoping to start my own site soon but I’m a little lost on everything. Would you propose starting with a free platform like WordPress or go for a paid option? There are so many options out there that I’m completely confused .. Any recommendations? Thanks a lot!