Domain Name

A domain name, also commonly referred to as a “domain”, is essentially an address which directs users to the location of your website on the internet. It is similar to your home’s mailing address. The first step in building your online presence with a website is acquiring a domain name. After searching for a domain name that nobody else is using, you pay an annual fee to own and register it.

Examples of domain names: Google.com, Facebook.com, Amazon.com

While there are many domain registrar companies, we recommend Google Domains. Using Google Domains makes things easy because it is likely you will also use other Google services like Business Profile, Analytics, Search Console, and Workspace. Having access to these tools under one account makes things much easier to manage. You may already have a Google account, and if not, setup is simple. Another popular domain registrar company is GoDaddy which you might have used to acquire a domain name in the past. Transferring your domain name from GoDaddy to Google Domains is a process we handle for all customers on a WebCare plan.

Web Hosting

Web hosting is essentially a “home” for your website on the internet. Just like in real life, there are many different types of “homes” that exist for websites on the internet. Some are in high-rise apartment buildings with thousands of neighbors, and others in gated communities with on-premise security to keep an eye out for security threats. Some are well maintained by an HOA and include amenities, while others are maintained by the residents to save money.

One thing to keep in mind: No matter how clean and tidy you keep your home, if your next door neighbors don’t do the same it’s only a matter of time before issues come your way. This is why we recommend managed web hosting so you can focus on your business and avoid all the web hosting hassles. We offer WebCare plans that include web hosting in a “gated community” where we take great care of your website.

Having a website that looks and runs great can be extremely valuable to your business. It’s like having a salesperson working for you 24/7, so why not put it to good use?

Unfortunately, there is a common misconception that people will instantly flock to your website just because you have one. The truth is it takes work, time, and patience to increase the number of visitors to your website. While search engine optimization (SEO) definitely helps, there are also many other things you can do as a business owner to help “get the ball rolling”. Below is a list ways you can promote your website and increase website traffic. Some are free and others require some financial investment, but all are effective! If you need help or would like personal recommendations on what’s best for your business, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Your Email Signature

Adding your website link to your email signature is a great starting point! Everyone you communicate with can easily click the link to your website and explore. Along with a link to your website you should include your name and contact information.

Social Media Profiles

If you have social media profiles for your business on sites like Facebook or Instagram it is definitely smart to add information like your business address, phone number, and website link. On social sites people like to explore, so there is a good chance visitors to your profiles will click the link to your website to learn more about your business.

Business Directory Listings

Google My Business, Yelp, and Tripadvisor are just some of the many online business directory sites where you can promote your business online. List or claim your business profile and make sure to include a link to your website!

Business Cards

After launching your website it’s a great idea to update your buisness cards and include the link to your website.

Invoices & Receipts

Your customers might not be aware of other products or services you offer, so including a link to your website on your invoice & receipts can be a great opportunity for them to learn more about your business.

Promotional Items

Company t-shirts, pens, coffee mugs and notepads are some promotional items that include space for your logo and a link to your website.

QR Codes

While they have been around for many years, QR codes gained popularity during the pandemic and have become an essential and contactless way to visit websites. QR codes are smart bar codes that can be scanned using your phone’s camera app. Clicking on the code directs them to a website, so why not create some for your business?

Owning a domain name requires an annual fee (approximately $12 per year). To ensure you don’t lose your domain name permanently you need to renew your registration annually. Google Domains typically sends you an email notification at least one month before your domain name will expire. It is extremely important you renew registration or risk losing your domain name permanently.

To renew your domain, follow the steps below:

Navigate to Google Domains and make sure you sign in with the email address associated with the domain. Once signed in, click on your domain and navigate to “Registration settings”. Under the “Domain Registration” section, click “Add years” and choose how many years you would like to add. Click “Continue to payment” and follow the on-screen payment instructions.

Keep in mind the easiest way to renew is to turn on auto-renew. By enabling this option, you can handle this payment and future renewal payments automatically. Just be sure your card payment on file with your Google Domains account is valid.

Add, edit, or remove saved payment methods

You can view, add, or make changes to an existing payment method saved in your Google Account.

To add a payment method, sign in to Payment Methods. At the bottom, click “Add a payment method”. Select the payment method you want to add. Follow the instructions to finish adding your payment method. If you’re asked to verify your payment method, choose an option from the list, then enter the verification code. To change or remove a payment method, sign in to Payment Methods. Next to a payment method, click “Edit” or “Remove”.