Website Setup
- Secure a domain name: Choose a professional, brandable URL (e.g., `.com`).
- Choose a hosting provider: Reliable options like SiteGround, Bluehost, or Shopify (for e-commerce).
- Build your website:
- Use platforms like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace.
- Ensure mobile responsiveness.
- Add essential pages: Home, About, Contact, Products/Services, Blog (optional).
- Install SSL certificate: Enable HTTPS (for security and SEO).
Branding & Content
- Create a professional email: Use your domain (e.g., `you@yourbusiness.com`).
- Design a logo/brand assets: Use Canva or hire a designer.
- Write clear website copy: Highlight your value proposition and calls-to-action (CTAs).
- Add legal pages: Privacy Policy, Terms of Service, and Cookie Policy (use templates if needed).
Social Media & Listings
- Claim business profiles:
- Facebook Business Page
- Instagram Business Account
- LinkedIn Company Page
- TikTok (if relevant)
- Set up Google My Business: For local SEO (critical for brick-and-mortar).
- Consistent branding: Use the same logo, colors, and bio across platforms.
Essential Business Tools
- Email marketing: Tools like Mailchimp or Klaviyo for newsletters.
- Customer Relationship Management (CRM): HubSpot, Zoho, or Salesforce.
- Scheduling/booking: Calendly, Acuity, or Square Appointments.
- Payment processing: PayPal, Stripe, or Square.
Cybersecurity Basics
- Strong passwords: Use a password manager (e.g., LastPass, 1Password).
- Two-factor authentication (2FA): Enable on all accounts (email, social media, banking).
- Regular backups: Automate website/data backups (via hosting provider or tools like UpdraftPlus).
- Antivirus software: Install on all devices (e.g., Norton, Bitdefender).
Analytics & SEO
- Install Google Analytics: Track website traffic and user behavior.
- Set up Google Search Console: Monitor SEO performance.
- Basic SEO optimization:
- Keyword research (Ubersuggest, AnswerThePublic).
- Optimize meta titles/descriptions.
- Add alt text to images.
E-Commerce (If Applicable)
- Choose a platform: Shopify, WooCommerce, or Etsy.
- Secure payment gateways: PCI-compliant options (Stripe, Square).
- Shipping/tax setup: Integrate tools like ShipStation or TaxJar.
Maintenance & Updates
- Update software: Regularly patch CMS, plugins, and themes.
- Monitor uptime: Use tools like UptimeRobot.
- Review security: Annual cybersecurity audit (check for vulnerabilities).
Bonus Tips
- Free tools: Google Workspace (email/docs), Canva (design), Trello (project management).
- Automate repetitive tasks: Zapier or IFTTT for workflows.
- Train your team: Basic cybersecurity best practices (phishing awareness).