*This is sponsored by SME Writing Services.

You have heard the expression, “You never get a second chance to make a good first impression”. This is true if you have a business, like photography, where you advertise or seek out clients online. Your website/blog may be the first impression people see of you. If you want to turn those people into clients, you need to make sure you are putting your best foot forward. Your website is your biggest source of online marketing, make it shine.

Tips to getting the most out of your online marketing

1. Check your grammar and spelling.
I am the WORST person to be talking about this since my mom has to email me, all too often, to correct my mistakes. One of the biggest ways to look unprofessional is to have spelling and grammar mistakes all over your site. You never know if you miss out on a chance to book a client because of these errors.

2. Have a headshot.
Personally, I like to see who I’m hiring. Be sure to put an image of yourself on your “About Me” page. Make sure it is a current shot. You don’t want to confuse your client when you show up and they were expecting a younger version of you.

3. Location.
Is your location listed on your website? You would be surprised by how many photographers’ sites I have seen that do not have their location listed anywhere on their site. How am I supposed to know if you are in my area and can hire you if I don’t know where you are located?

4. Think before you write.
Regardless what writing outlet you’re using, whether it is a blog, I am mainly talking about your social media presence here. Don’t air your dirty laundry on your business page. Keep all business related social media professional. Your clients are looking there as well, and if they see you bad mouthing a former client or a competitor, do you think they are going to hire you?

5. Hire someone to critique your site.
You may be too close to your website/blog to see errors or the vibe that you are putting off. By hiring someone to come in and critique your site, you get a fresh pair of eyes to check out your work. SME Writing Service can do just that. Shannon prides herself on being able to help a client polish their site so you can make the best first impression. She can ask the questions you may not have thought about. By working with someone who has editing experience, you will be able to present your site in a professional manner.

6. Well-written “About Me” page.
People really do read this page. When most people hire a photographer, or anyone for that matter, they like to feel like they know the person or have a connection with them. These people are paying you to spend time with their family and to capture who they are. If they read your “About Me” page and feel put off by it, they may not hire you. This is where having an editor, like Shannon, to help you write your “About Me” page comes in handy.

Don’t forget, your website/blog represents you, and many people will decide if they want to hire you or your competition depending on your site. Make it the best it can be.

*This is sponsored by SME Writing Services.