Freelance Web Designer - Quick Start Guide Step 5

January 30, 2008

Choose Your Web Host

After registering a domain name and choosing a design template, your next goal is to find a reliable host. If you registered your domain at 1and1.com, they have affordable hosting options.

For $4.95 a month, you can host a small site in a matter of minutes. If you don’t require databases, special scripting, or an elaborate e-commerce solution, the 1and1 hosting menu offers the best value.

My primary hosting company is Host Gator. I’ve stayed with Host Gator because they provide world class e-mail customer service. They have answered every question or request I’ve had in less than 24 hours. If you need considerable hand
holding, this is the company to choose. Their basic, monthly hosting package is $10 per month.

Go Live!

After you’ve chosen your host, you’ll officially put your site online. In short, you need to “file transfer” your site to your hosting company. You will need an FTP (File Transfer Protocol) client (check www.ipswitch.com for PCs and www.fetchsoftworks.com for Mac). Testing is the key.

Transferring files is easy, making sure everything works is easy too—just tedious. I’ve made this step short intentionally. Because each hosting provider has a different process, I can’t explain each one in enough detail to make you feel comfortable to tackle the process on your own.

I will say that if you decide to use 1and1 as your domain registrar, they have a seamless hosting option. All you do is select the hosting option when you first signup and register your domain. They take care of a few, back-end details while you take care of uploading your files.

Plan Globally, Market Locally

After your site is live, your next action should be to start your marketing program. Whether you live in a small town or large city, the entire globe is a potential customer. But, you need to crawl before you walk. Start locally.

If you’ve chosen law firms as your niche market, you can probably reach every law office with minimal cost. No need to buy a direct mail list-hit the phone book and Web. You’ll gain confidence as you build your list.

The single, most powerful way to market your business is to offer a free newsletter. Your job is to be a one-stop resource for your clients. Delivering a value added, information packed newsletter will certainly build your reputation and your bank account.

Go to the Quick Start Guide Summary

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