EPISODE SUMMARY

The internet is a very crowded place, and standing out in this digital world can seem impossible. But in this episode of Think Inside the Square, I'm sharing some actionable tips that will help you build a strong online presence, from choosing the right platforms to focus on, to creating engaging content and building a loyal community. Here are some practical tips that will help you stand out.

Focus on Specific Platforms

Trying to be everything to everyone is a recipe for burnout and mediocrity. When I first started, I was eager to try every platform under the sun: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube, all while maintaining my blog. This approach left me super burnt out and my content suffered. Eventually, I decided to focus my efforts on YouTube and my blog. By concentrating on these platforms, I was able to create higher quality content and build a stronger community. Take inspiration from successful entrepreneurs like Amy Porterfield, who focused on her podcast before expanding to other platforms.

Key Takeaway: Instead of trying to conquer every platform, pick a few that you enjoy creating content for and where your target audience hangs out. Focus your efforts there.

Be Consistent

Consistency is key when building an online presence. Creating and sharing valuable content regularly establishes you as an authority in your niche. I made a promise to myself to post a new video every Tuesday for three months. Fast forward four years, and I now have the world's largest online database of video tutorials for customizing Squarespace. Consistency helped me build a loyal community and maintain audience engagement.

Key Takeaway: Aim to publish new content regularly. Start with once a week, and as you gain momentum, you may expand further. The goal is to keep your audience engaged and coming back for more.

Embrace Video Content

Video content has exploded in popularity for good reason. It’s engaging, informative, and allows you to connect with your audience on a personal level. Whether it’s YouTube, TikTok, or Instagram Reels, video can be a game-changer for your online presence. It offers a combination of visuals, audio, and motion that can grab a viewer’s attention and explain complex topics in simple ways.

Key Takeaway: Start creating video content, even if it’s with your smartphone. As you gain experience, invest in better equipment and software, but the key is to get started and stay consistent.

Build an Email List

Your email list consists of people who have actively chosen to hear from you, making them more likely to engage with your content. Offer valuable freebies like ebooks, checklists, or templates in exchange for email addresses. Place opt-in forms strategically on your website and social media profiles to make it easy for people to sign up.

Key Takeaway: Regularly remind your followers about your email list and offer valuable content through it. Building a strong email list will help you create a loyal and engaged community.

Keep Learning and Adapting

The online world is constantly evolving. Embrace a mindset of continuous learning and adaptation. Try new strategies and platforms; attend webinars, listen to podcasts, and read industry blogs. What works for one person may not work for another, so find what resonates with your audience and what you enjoy doing.

Key Takeaway: Treat online marketing as an experiment. Stay curious, keep learning, and don't be afraid to try new things.

Building an online presence requires dedication, consistency, and a willingness to learn and adapt. Focus on a few core platforms, create valuable content, nurture your community, and work on building your email list. The only way to find out what works for you is to start somewhere. Have fun with your journey, and don’t hesitate to experiment! Thank you for reading and most importantly, have fun with your Squarespace website.