Being a businessperson these days means that you need to know how to use the Web in a profitable way. While it’s not rocket science, it requires mastering a certain number of features. A rookie entrepreneur might omit one or two if they aren’t properly advised.
Therefore, I’ve prepared 4 crucial features that will keep you competitive in the online environment.
Did You Know?
Social Media Impact:
Studies indicate that excessive use of social media can lead to increased feelings of depression and loneliness. In fact, a study found that young adults who use social media more than two hours a day are twice as likely to feel social isolation compared to those who spend less than 30 minutes on social media daily.
Workplace Negativity:
According to a survey, about 45% of employees report experiencing workplace negativity, which adversely affects their productivity and mental health.
Online Trolling:
Research shows that about 28% of Americans admit to engaging in malicious online activities or trolling.
Impact on Mental Health:
A study reveals that constant exposure to negative news can significantly increase anxiety and stress levels in individuals.
Effect on Relationships:
Around 60% of people report that negativity, whether online or in person, impacts their personal relationships, often leading to conflicts or misunderstandings.
#1 Make Use of The Breeding Ground For Negativity
Most social networks, especially X (Twitter), are cesspit. The platforms are engineered to amplify outrage. Then make good use of them.
Endless Scroll of Polarization
It's like the algorithm finds the most divisive topics and shoves them right into your face. Instead of fostering understanding or discussion, it often encourages polarization. The platform tends to make mountains out of molehills, with even the smallest issues escalating into full-blown online wars, don't you think?
Then post your business campaigns as frequently as you want. Some people may block you, while others will remember your taglines.
The Cancel Culture Arena
Make a mistake, say something someone doesn't agree with, and you might find yourself at the center of a Twitter storm. It's like a minefield where you have to tread carefully, or else you could find yourself "canceled," losing professional opportunities or even friendships.
So what does it mean?
It means that we'll all be canceled sooner or later, anyway. Unless you'll stay boring, behave like a saint and say absolutely nothing mind-boggling. Which one would you want to be? Say what you want to say! Strike while the iron is hot. Take advantage of the platforms while they last.
Echo Chambers
The platform's algorithmic approach can also serve to reinforce your existing beliefs. You end up in an echo chamber, surrounded by people who think just like you, and rarely exposed to differing opinions. It's comforting but not exactly conducive to personal growth or broader understanding, right?
Circulating Unconventional Information
Sometimes, unconventional or out-of-the-box information captures attention like nothing else, doesn't it? Those "copy and paste" statuses that claim to protect your privacy or offer groundbreaking health advice can make you feel like you're part of something bigger. It's a way to create engagement and sometimes even a sense of community.
Being a Vocal Keyboard Warrior
Speaking your mind without filter? There's something liberating about it, right? Engaging in heated online discussions can give you a platform to express opinions that you might not voice otherwise. For some, it's a way to genuinely connect with all those time-wasters on social network. This is definitely quite exhilarating.
Make Use of Online Venting
Hey, who doesn't like a good rant? If your feed is full of passionate takes on various topics, it could be a way to let off steam. And you never know, some people might find your rants relatable or even therapeutic, don't you think?
Focusing on Online Relationships
When you're super active online, you're making lots of connections, aren't you? Posting birthday wishes or life updates on social media can be a way to maintain relationships without the commitment of more personal interaction. It's like socializing, but with less effort.
Unapologetic Self-Promotion
Turning your social media account into a billboard for your personal brand or cause is one way to get the word out, isn't it? Frequent posts about what you're selling or advocating for can help you reach the people who are genuinely interested in what you have to offer.
Laid-Back Approach to Privacy
And who needs to stress about privacy settings when you're an open book, right? Sharing personal details like your home address or your vacation plans can show how trusting and open you are with your online community.
It’s clever to start with online features that don’t cost an arm and a leg. Social media are used by people worldwide so you can make an international appeal in case your business aims at such an audience.
Logically, you should focus only on the social channels that can help you generate new leads and promote your business. Each of them is more appropriate for some functions than others.
In line with that, you can use Facebook for both visual and textual promotion. Publishing images and informative posts will attract people to find out more about your business. Also, ask the questions that will inspire your followers to share their ideas with you and the community so that you trigger discussion and increase your visibility. The new Facebook algorithm will like that.
Instagram, on the other hand, can be your online shop window. That way, it’s possible to sell on Instagram, and now you can sell without an e-commerce shop. So, publish relevant photos, write eye-catching captions and get visible on Instagram.
LinkedIn is the third member of this social media business triumvirate. In a nutshell, connect with as many relevant professionals from your niche as possible. Here you can recruit some employees and contractors, as well. Think about going for premium LinkedIn membership and use its benefits.
#2 Running a Quirky Blog
As an entrepreneur, you've probably had your fair share of ups and downs, right? Well, why not share those roller coaster experiences in your blog posts? Like the time you had a business meeting in a treehouse because the conference rooms were all booked. Makes for an unforgettable impression and highlights your adaptability in a tight spot.
Or how about when you used trash boxes as makeshift demo stands for a last-minute investor pitch? It shows your resourcefulness and creativity. Quirky stories like these make you relatable and are bound to stick in people’s minds, don't you think?
Did You Know?
Reader Engagement:
Blogs with unique and quirky content have a 67% higher likelihood of being shared on social media platforms compared to more conventional blogs.
Growth Rate:
Quirky or niche blogs experience a growth rate of about 23% year-on-year in terms of their reader base and engagement.
Revenue Opportunities:
Approximately 30% of quirky blog owners report an increase in revenue streams through affiliate marketing and sponsored content, higher than traditional blogs.
Audience Loyalty:
Niche blogs enjoy a high reader loyalty rate, with 70% of readers returning to the blog at least once a week.
SEO Benefits:
Quirky blogs tend to rank higher in specific search queries, with a 40% better chance of appearing on the first page of search results for niche topics.
Out-of-the-Box Topics
Who says business blogs have to stick to run-of-the-mill subjects like "How to Boost Sales" or "Networking Tips"? Why not shake things up by discussing the correlation between your favorite rock music and your business model? Music has its own set of rules and structures yet leaves room for improvisation, much like running a startup, right?
Or take a chance on writing about "The Zen of Office Snacks." Yes, you read it right. Dive deep into how the choice of snacks in your break room can affect company culture and productivity. Sounds weird, but it's an angle not many would consider. That's what makes it intriguing, isn't it?
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Unconventional Writing Style
Standard business lingo can be such a yawn fest. So why stick to the tried and tired when you can sprinkle in some zest? Use catchy phrases, playful metaphors, and maybe a sprinkling of alliteration. Instead of saying "Our sales strategy is effective," how about "Our sales game is as slick as a punk saxophonist on a Saturday night"?
And don't shy away from humor. Business is serious, but that doesn't mean your blog has to be. Remember that one post where you compared hiring new talent to dating? You made points like "First impressions matter" and "It’s a two-way street," but framed it all in the context of first dates and relationship advice. Humor makes even dry subjects palatable and entertaining, right?
Examples Are Your Best Friends
If you're going to write about the "Zen of Office Snacks," back it up with some real-life incidents. Maybe the introduction of protein bars led to fewer afternoon slumps, or how switching to healthier snacks sparked unexpected conversations and team bonding. Real-world examples lend credibility to even the quirkiest of topics and writing styles, don't they?
Being an entrepreneur gives you the freedom to be flamboyant in ways that a corporate job might not allow. Your blog can be the perfect platform to showcase your unique style and voice, offering not just information, but also entertainment and relatability. Sounds like a win-win, doesn't it?
Furthermore, allow people to leave their opinions below the posts and enable Facebook users to make comments. For instance, enabling Facebook comments on WordPress blogs is pretty straightforward and easily adjustable by every John and Jane Doe. These comments will improve the status of your website because Google likes organic discussions and interactions with readers and among them. What’s more, people will be interested in visiting your blog to take part in these discussions.
Finally, you don’t have to limit yourself to publishing only articles written by influencers and experts but pay attention to the quality of the material you publish. A rule of thumb is to go only for relevant and informative content that will make a difference to your readers.
If you meet all the criteria from this paragraph, you’ll make a successful blog in no time.
#3 Investing in the Visual Identity
Investing in the Visual Identity
Did You Know?
Brand Recognition:
Companies with a strong visual identity can see up to a 33% increase in brand recognition.
Customer Engagement:
50% of consumers are more likely to interact with a brand that has a visually appealing identity.
Marketing Success:
Around 70% of marketers believe that consistent branding across all channels, including visual identity, is vital for marketing success.
Investment ROI:
Businesses that invest in their visual identity report a 40% higher return on investment (ROI) compared to those that don't.
Consumer Perception:
About 60% of consumers feel that a company's visual identity reflects the quality and reliability of its products or services.
If you possess the right visual identity, you’re more likely to generate new leads and raise interest in your business.
The only question here is what we mean by the word right in terms of visual identity.
First and foremost, it’s important to take care of your logo and branding. The first will have a huge effect on the latter and the latter consists of numerous interchangeable elements. Every entrepreneur should learn the basic features that make a good logo and attractive brand. You can do some reading around the Web and talk to web design experts to extend your knowledge of the business visual identity and see how you can improve yours.
Apart from that, every new business with online aspirations has to go for optimal visual presence. This means that you shouldn’t over-promote your venture and the services it provides. This refers to all the online platforms you’re using, from social media to your website, blog, and YouTube channel. As for the YT channel, you can boost your business through YouTube by sharing original business videos, free tutorials, and other things. Giving away such freebies will resonate well with your audience, especially if they can profit from them in any way whatsoever.
What’s also important for your visual identity is to learn how to choose colors in business. From the solutions for your brand and logo to your everyday activities, colors can drive your audience in a certain direction. You have to ensure that they’re always on the same track with your enterprise.
#4 Launching a Business App
If your social media pages are your shop windows, then your website is your very own online supermarket. This is where people come to find out more about your business, your services, and your products. Moreover, this is where they decide whether or not they’re going to follow you or buy something from you.
The "Just Create an App" Mentality
The problem is, the naivety of people who throw around the phrase "just create a business app" as if it's as easy as making instant coffee. You need specialized skills to even begin thinking about app development, right? This isn't like whipping up a PowerPoint presentation or creating a simple website on a drag-and-drop platform.
Skills Are Not a Minor Detail
Ignoring the technical skills needed for app creation is absurd, don't you think? It's not just about knowing how to code; it's also about understanding user interface design, database management, and system architecture. You can't just mash these elements together and expect a fully-functioning app to magically appear.
Did You Know?
- Market Reach: Over 70% of global internet traffic comes from mobile devices, highlighting the importance of having a business app.
- Consumer Preference: 85% of consumers prefer using a mobile app over a mobile website for shopping.
- Engagement Rates: Mobile apps see 3 times more engagement compared to mobile websites.
- Conversion Rates: Apps have a 100% higher conversion rate than mobile websites.
- Retention Rates: Mobile apps have a 50% higher retention rate over three months compared to websites.
- Revenue Generation: Businesses with a mobile app experience a 35% increase in revenue within the first six months of launch.
- User Acquisition Cost: The average cost of acquiring an app user who makes a purchase is about $64.90.
- Development Cost: The average cost of developing a basic business app ranges from $10,000 to $50,000.
- Time to Market: On average, it takes about 4-6 months to develop and launch a basic business app.
- User Reviews Impact: 90% of users consider user reviews before downloading an app, and apps with higher ratings have significantly higher download rates.
Overlooking the Time Factor
And let's not forget the time investment. Designing, developing, and deploying an app can take months or even years. Telling someone to "just create an app" casually overlooks the long hours of dedication needed, right? It's not a weekend project you can tackle in your free time.
The Budget Elephant in the Room
What about the financial aspect? Even if you could outsource every piece of the puzzle, that costs money. Sometimes, lots of money. As if every entrepreneur has a treasure chest sitting around to fund an app, right? The idea that creating an app is a low-budget endeavor is laughable.
Not Every Business Needs an App
Also, who's to say that every business even needs an app? Just because some businesses find success with apps doesn't mean it's the golden ticket for everyone, does it? Some businesses might be better off investing in other areas, like improving their existing services or products.
Glorifying the App Market
The illusion that the app market is some sort of promised land waiting to shower riches upon anyone who enters. The reality is far less rosy. Breaking through the noise to actually get your app noticed and downloaded is a Herculean task, isn't it?
So, the next time someone naively suggests that creating a business app is easy, maybe they should try making one themselves first. Then we'll talk.
Uncharted Realities for Rookie Entrepreneurs
1. Legal Framework
One aspect rookie entrepreneurs often overlook is the legal framework of starting and running a business. Navigating business licenses, permits, contracts, and intellectual property rights can be a labyrinthine process. It's essential to consult legal experts or attorneys to ensure compliance and protect your business from potential legal disputes.
2. Financial Management
Entrepreneurship involves far more than generating revenue. Managing finances, including accounting, budgeting, and taxes, is a critical aspect often underestimated. Rookie entrepreneurs should familiarize themselves with financial management practices or hire professionals to handle these complex financial matters.
3. Market Research Depth
While conducting market research is a recognized step, rookie entrepreneurs may not realize the depth required. It's not just about understanding market trends but diving deep into consumer behavior, identifying niche opportunities, and staying updated on evolving customer preferences.
4. Networking's True Value
Networking is more than just exchanging business cards at events. Building authentic, meaningful connections with industry peers, mentors, and potential partners is invaluable. The relationships cultivated can lead to collaboration, insights, and opportunities not easily found elsewhere.
5. Time Management Challenges
Time management can become a formidable challenge for rookie entrepreneurs. Balancing the many demands of running a business, from administrative tasks to customer interactions, requires effective time management strategies. Learning to prioritize and delegate is crucial.
6. Handling Rejection and Failure
Rejection and failure are inevitable in entrepreneurship. Rookie entrepreneurs may not anticipate the emotional toll these setbacks can take. It's vital to develop resilience, learning from failures rather than being discouraged by them.
7. Regulatory Compliance
Complying with local, state, and federal regulations is a complex and ever-evolving task. Many rookie entrepreneurs are unaware of the numerous compliance requirements for their industry, from environmental standards to labor laws. Non-compliance can result in fines or business closures.
8. Protecting Intellectual Property
Intellectual property (IP) includes patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. Rookie entrepreneurs must grasp the significance of protecting their IP. Ignoring this aspect can lead to costly legal battles or the loss of a valuable competitive advantage.
9. The Importance of Market Fit
It's not enough to have a great product or service; it must fit the market's needs. Rookie entrepreneurs often neglect in-depth market fit analysis, which involves understanding the specific pain points their offering addresses and how it stands out from competitors.
10. Customer Acquisition Costs
Acquiring customers is essential, but rookie entrepreneurs may not fully comprehend the costs associated with it. They should calculate customer acquisition costs to ensure their marketing efforts are financially sustainable.
11. Scaling Challenges
Scaling a business comes with its set of challenges, often unforeseen by rookies. It's not just about expanding; it involves maintaining quality, managing increased complexity, and securing adequate funding for growth.
12. The Emotional Rollercoaster
Entrepreneurship is an emotional rollercoaster. The highs of success and lows of failure can take a toll on mental health. Rookie entrepreneurs must prioritize self-care and seek support when needed.
13. Marketing Beyond Promotion
Marketing extends beyond promotion. It includes brand strategy, product development, pricing, and distribution. Rookie entrepreneurs should grasp the holistic nature of marketing to effectively reach and engage their target audience.
14. Dealing with Uncertainty
The entrepreneurial journey is inherently uncertain. Rookie entrepreneurs often underestimate the degree of ambiguity they will encounter. Flexibility and adaptability are essential traits for navigating the unpredictable twists and turns of business.
15. The Value of Feedback
Feedback, whether from customers, employees, or mentors, is a goldmine of insights. Rookie entrepreneurs should actively seek and embrace feedback to refine their offerings and strategies.
16. Sustainable Practices
In today's world, sustainable business practices are not just a trend but a necessity. Rookie entrepreneurs may not realize the importance of integrating sustainability into their business models to appeal to socially conscious consumers.
17. Long-Term Vision
Rookie entrepreneurs can get caught up in the day-to-day operations and lose sight of their long-term vision. Maintaining a clear sense of purpose and direction is vital for achieving lasting success.
18. Personal Growth
Entrepreneurship is not just about growing a business; it's also about personal growth. Rookie entrepreneurs often underestimate the transformative impact the journey can have on them as individuals.
In the unpredictable landscape of entrepreneurship, these lesser-known aspects can significantly impact a rookie's success. Being aware of these realities and proactively addressing them can better prepare entrepreneurs for the challenges and triumphs that lie ahead.
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Conclusion
Online presence can bring numerous benefits to every business. If you’re new to the world of online business, it’s important to learn the basics that will help you keep your head above the water. Since the Web is brimming with competition in every niche, it’s important to follow in the footsteps that have proven to bring results. Therefore, try to apply the features described in this article to boost your online business presence and have a successful start as a rookie entrepreneur in the online environment.
Author Bio: Liam Collins
Liam Collins is a tech pundit and Web enthusiast working at TuiSpace.com. He spends most of his time reading and writing about the current affairs in the world of information technology. When he isn’t working, he likes going for long bike rides and walks in nature.
