Top 10 ways to use the internet to grow your business

The internet is an invaluable resource for business exposure and success. Here are the top ways to use it to grow your business.

1. Social networkingJoining LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter allows you the opportunity to network with like-minded individuals or industry experts who can aid you with contacts and knowledge.

2. Create a website
You don't need to be a tech wiz to create a website. There are various free weblog sites - such as Wordpress or Weebly - that present you with many readymade templates to choose from.

3. SEO
Once you've got your website up, speak to a search engine optimisation (SEO) specialist, who can help tweak your website so that it appears higher on search engine listings. After all, you want people to find your name first when they Google for a service/product you supply.

4. Mailing lists
By providing users with the option to subscribe to future news-related emails from your company, you gain an invaluable resource - potential clients.

5. Targeted advertising
Your advertisements can be placed on relevant websites, which target your desired demographic.

6. Legal espionage
You can view your competitors' prices and services online without breaking any laws.

7. Viral marketing
By using already established social networks, you can target larger audiences for a fraction of your advertising budget. For example, just by sending one message to all your Facebook friends, you can tell them about your new products and prices.

8. Online shopping
Giving your clients the option to purchase products online eliminates the tedious back-and-forth process of telephone calls and quotations, therefore making the business transaction more direct and efficient.

9. RSS feeds
Subscribe to RSS feeds from related industry websites and be the first to receive information of events and developments in your field.

10. Going global immediately
The internet allows you to reach an international audience in the quickest and cheapest possible way.