Marketing your site on and offline can be just as important as marketing your business.

The question used to be, Do you have a website? Now, the more relevant question is, How do you market your website? It truly isn't a "Build it and they will come" scenario.  Today all businesses have a website so you need to make sure people know how to find your website.

If you don't have a website or your customers can't find it, it would be like running your business without a sign on the door, without business cards or with the lights out?

Online Marketing

Online marketing should be done in conjunction with the offline marketing. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Stop using This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for your business email address and migrate to a custom branded email address using your website domain name; This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
• Even though people are at your site, mention it often within the text of your web copy. This will reinforce it in the readers' minds and help with search engine optimization (SEO).
• Mention your website or include it in your signature for all news group, discussion group or forum postings.
• Use online press releases and articles just like the offline method mentioned above.
• Pay-per-click marketing
• Banner advertising on your site, as part of a small business Co-op
• E-mail signatures

Offline Marketing

Many website owners forget about the offline options for marketing. But you need to make yourself visible in the places your target market lives and that means the offline world as well.

• Search out local organizations soliciting donations for charity events.  Make sure include some business cards and a special offer to those who don't "win".
• All communication materials should show your URL and entice readers to visit your site. This includes business cards, letterhead, envelopes, brochures, flyers, folders and newsletters.
• You can issue a press release announcing anything new or newsworthy on your site or business. Maybe you're offering a free report, a free e-course or a unique approach to the marketplace that the media will be interested in.
• If you ever get the opportunity to be interviewed, make sure you find ways to drop your URL. You can say things like, "On my website, www.moonlightinggroup.com, I offer free website marketing advise to help grow your online businesses." Don't just say, "On my website ..." without mentioning the URL. This applies to any interviews you might do with a reporter, editor or producer.
• Advertising specialties are great ways to distribute your web address. They include key chains, coffee mugs, mouse pads, pens and pencils, as well as any apparel that might carry your logo or identity.
• You can also promote your URL offline with the following: fax cover sheets, vehicles, billboards, license plate frames, Yellow Page ads, other printed ads, T-shirts, and golf balls and bags.

Be creative with both your offline and online marketing. Sometimes the best marketing comes from the wild, crazy, extreme or unique ideas.