Digital Empowerment: A Strategic Guide for Realtors, Entrepreneurs, and Start-Ups

By Cara Harpole

In today's digital era, an effective online presence is a key determinant of success. This truth became evident through my interactions with two associates facing similar digital challenges: Monique, a start-up business owner, and Bree, a real estate professional. While Monique has established a basic website, she struggles to harmonize it with her overall digital footprint.?

Conversely, Bree primarily operates through her company's portal but aspires to expand her reach by starting a personal blog. Despite their awareness of the importance of advancing digitally, both find themselves daunted by the prospect of establishing a robust and effective online presence. In this article, I aim to address these concerns, providing practical steps to empower professionals like Monique and Bree to navigate the digital landscape with confidence and purpose.

Monique, the Start-Up Business Owner

Monique, an entrepreneur juggling multiple roles, took the initiative to create her website using a free platform. While admirable, this DIY approach led to occasional technical issues. Often, she sought help from colleagues or postponed resolving these problems, mainly due to budget constraints that also prevented her from hiring a professional web designer. Additionally, her website still lacks integration with her company's email domain, reflecting a gap in her digital branding strategy.

A further concern for Monique is her website's accessibility and inclusiveness. Discovering that her site scored poorly in ADA compliance was a wake-up call about the need for inclusivity in digital spaces.

To elevate her online presence, Monique could consider the following steps:

1. Redesigning Her Website Professionally: This would address both aesthetic and functional aspects, making her site more appealing and user-friendly.

2.? Accessibility and ADA Compliance

• Accessible websites cater to all users, including those with disabilities, incorporating features like high contrast, alt text, and easy navigation.
• ADA compliance is a legal requirement, avoiding potential legal challenges and demonstrating inclusivity.
• Common accessibility oversights include low contrast text, missing alt text, and complex navigation.

3) Content Maintenance and the Role of SEO

• SEO is about optimizing a website to rank higher in search engine results.
• SEO plugins on platforms like WordPress can guide Monique in optimizing her site, covering technical aspects and improving page load speeds.

4) Launching an Email Marketing Campaign: This can be an efficient way to engage with her audience and promote her services.

5)? Conducting a User Study: Understanding what her audience wants to see on her site will guide her in creating more relevant and engaging content.

Bree the Realtor with Dreams of Starting a Business

Bree, a successful realtor, aspires to venture into the construction business. Recognizing the necessity of a strong digital footprint, she feels uncertain about where to begin. To support her transition, I suggested leveraging AI tools for creating engaging newsletters and acquiring a domain for brand building and blogging. Here are further tailored suggestions:

1)? Establishing a Strong Online Presence on Social Media

• LinkedIn: It's more than a networking platform; it's a space to build a professional brand. Bree can exchange LinkedIn QR codes instead of traditional business cards, ensuring lasting connections.
• Facebook: A professional business page enables Bree to utilize targeted ads and analytics, distinguishing her business presence from her personal life.
• Instagram and TikTok: These platforms offer Bree avenues for visually engaging content. Instagram suits property showcases, while TikTok allows for creative, viral content.

2) Building and Enhancing an Email List

• Bree can build her email list during client intake by encouraging newsletter sign-ups.
• Platforms like MailChimp, Constant Contact, and Campaign Monitor offer features tailored to different business needs, from user-friendliness to advanced customization. Bree can utilize client interactions as opportunities to grow her email list.
• Regular newsletters keep clients engaged and build brand loyalty.
• AI tools can assist in generating newsletter content, while platforms like Envato provide high-quality images.

3)? Setting Up a Personalized Website and URL

• A personal URL, such as BreeRealEstate.com, is vital for brand continuity and client retention.
• Website costs vary, with basic sites starting around $1,200. More complex sites can exceed $5,000, reflecting the value of quality design and functionality.
• WordPress offers control and customization, but Bree might consider professional assistance for optimal results.

4)? Hiring a Professional for Website Maintenance

• A web professional can provide technical support and content updates, ensuring a quality online presence.

A Strategic Guide for Entrepreneurs' serves as a beacon for professionals like Monique and Bree, navigating the intricate digital landscape. Through practical advice ranging from website redesign and ADA compliance to leveraging social media and AI tools for brand building, this article underscores the pivotal role of a cohesive and robust online presence in today's digital era. As Monique and Bree's journeys illustrate, the path to digital empowerment is multifaceted, requiring a blend of technical savvy, strategic planning, and a commitment to inclusivity and engagement. By embracing these strategies, entrepreneurs can not only enhance their digital footprint but also forge deeper connections with their audience, laying the foundation for sustained success in the digital marketplace