Generating Web Traffic and Creating Site Hits
Generate Traffic and Create HitsThis article is a quick overview of some methods of traffic generation and their advantages and disadvantages. It is the goal of any website of the internet to get traffic to the site, to be seen.One of the problems is the internet is now so huge that there are more pages on the internet than people on the planet. How can you get hits and a flow of traffic to your solitary page. If your generating a page for general interest or fun without traffic your goals are not met. In the case of creating traffic for a business website it is literally a case of have traffic or have your business die. It doesn't mattter if you have the best website site, with great content, fantastic pictures, audio, video and a multimedia experience better than disneyland, if no one comes it is for naught. The internet is not like field of dreams "if you build it they will come", no they won't. Google has about 8 billion pages indexed on the net and its growing everyday. If you create a new site your chance of having a visitor just stumble on your site is about the same as winning the lottery. How then do we change the game so people can at least appreciate the work put into a website, or in the case of a business or affliliate website visit to make a decision to buy? The following are some of the most common methods.Search Engine Optimisation.Basically this means you optimise your pages with the right keywords in the right places so that the search engines index your page as having great CONTENT in relation to key search words. The simple fact of the matter is that your chance of being on page one of the most popular search terms is next to nil. You will find thanks to the American domination of the internet that the most popular searched keywords tend to be American personalities, like Oprah Winfrey, Paris Hilton, Britney Spears, etc. (Wonder why there are so many gossip magazines? The internet is no different, gossip is one of the most popular topics) If you were to create a new website about one of these people thinking hey I will get some of that traffic for myself, I'll do an Oprah Winfrey site, content ric

3 Ways to Get Interviewed in the Media
Business ToolsAdmit it – seeing your competitor’s picture in a feature article in the newspaper or a trade publication gave you a flash of jealousy.You’re right to be envious – any prospective client for your services who reads that interview or feature automatically assumes your competitor is the leading expert in your field.When prospects and clients read about you in newspapers, magazines, or hear you on the radio or TV, you get official “third-party” credibility that draws prospects like a magnet. It’s as if that particular media outlet is actually endorsing your products or services.So how can you get your fair share of media coverage – for free?Tap into TrendsJournalists are drawn to new trends but they are chained to their desks. They need someone like you to alert them to new developments in their beat.Train yourself to become aware of trends by buying a notebook and keeping it handy so you can jot down your ideas. You can generate lots of ideas by:- Attending trade shows. - Listening to your clients’ questions. - Noting articles in niche trade publications. - Giving fresh new twists on ‘evergreen’ subjects.Connect with the Media You can use the free media databases in the public library, but the easiest and most practical way to find journalists who write in your niche is to pay attention to bylines when you read newspapers and magazines.If you are trying to attract the interest of a journalist who writes for the business section of local or national newspapers, make a point of writing their names and publications in your notebook or on your blackberry. Usually, journalists include their e-mail address where they can be reached.At this point, you can either offer yourself as a resource or pitch an article idea directly.Elements of an EFFECTIVE email pitch A good e-mail pitch has the following characteristics.- Timeliness (why is this pitch relevant today rather than last week?) - Facts and/or Statistics (journalists need “proof”) - Anecdotes (including true stories of people matching

Google Shakes Up The Internet Marketing World
Well, you knew this was going to happen. With the recent YouTube buyout, you had to know that Google was up to something. Sure enough, they were. Recently Google announced that they were going to change their search engine ranking system to give more weight to sites that contained video. What does this mean for Internet marketers? It means a whole new way of thinking about putting your site and sales pitch together. In this article, I'm going to go over just a few things that you're going to need to do in order to keep up with the new world that we're about to live in.For one thing, it's now going to be very difficult to compete with sites that have exclusively relied on video, such as news sites with video feeds. They've got a big head start on most of us. Fortunately, as Internet marketers, we're not really in competition with the news sites, so that's a good thing. But we are going to be in competition with each other, so if we want to get a leg up on the other guy, we're going to have to do a few things. Like what?Let's start with our sales pages. Gone will be the days of the static, long winded sales page that people will have to drudge their way through. You're going to have to mix in some interactive video not only to keep Google happy but to keep people interested. Perhaps have a portion of your sales message be in written copy and a portion in video. Maybe have some video testimonials. They're always great. Of course, if you're photogenic, you'll probably want to have a video of you introducing yourself on your sales page. People will relate better to you when they can see you.What about our web pages? Well, you're going to have to figure out a way to incorporate video into those as well. Now, in some niches, this isn't going to be easy to do. The truth is, many niches won't convert well to video. For example, having a video of you explaining to somebody how to write a resource box for an article isn't going to be great entertainment. However, if you have a site that teaches people how to repair a grandfather clock, having a video of the procedure could be a great idea. You may even be the first person to do it.t helps you assess whether potential volunteers meet all the requirements.

3. Identify the barriers that may deter people from volunteering, which may include:

Cultural myths and perceptions that old age is a time for relaxation, not learning or contribution. Lack of confidence in their ability to contribute -- inability to translate their life experiences and skills to a particular program's needs.

Fear about safety, such as having to use public transportation, go into a stranger's home, and concerns about drugs and crime associated with teens or low-income populations. Physical limitations, such as illnesses or lack of energy. Financial issues, including concerns that expenses associated with volunteering may strain their already limited financial resources.

Difficulties with transportation.
Competition for volunteers is yet another obstacle; it is likely that many other organizations are trying to recruit the same "volunteer-minded" older adults that you are targeting. In addition, baby boomers are staying in the workforce longer, or returning to it after retirement, thus limiting the time they have available to volunteer.

4. Think about what could motivate elderly people to volunteer for your programme.

Identify ways to address some of the barriers and encourage older adults to volunteer. For example, they might be interested in volunteering because it will give them the opportunity to:

Increase their satisfaction with life by participating in an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Increase their sense of connection to the community.

Feel productive.
Address a social issue in a way that is consistent with personal values. Use their skills and share their experiences, interests and knowledge.

Learn new skills.
Learn more about youth.
Make new friends through the volunteer experience.
Leave a legacy for the younger generation.
Also identify ways to address logistical barriers such as transportation and the perceived expense of volunteering. Will volunteers be serving in a location that is easily accessible to their homes? Can the program provide any financial incentives to help cover the volunteers' out-of-pocket expenses?

5. Develop a recruitment message that "sells your program."

What is it about your program's mission, goals and population of participants that you can "sell" in order to attract volunteers? In developing your message, consider:

Motivations for volunteering.
Volunteers' roles and responsibilities (including the length of time they will be expected to participate).
Benefits of serving in your program. These could range from benefits to society (making a difference, strengthening a community) to the volunteers' self-interest (learning new skills, acquiring new knowledge, meeting new people) to stipends (if any). Be sure to include information about the training and ongoing support volunteers will receive.

6. Create recruitment materials that will catch people's attention.

A recruitment message can be adapted for a wide range of materials, from flyers and brochures to videos and websites. Be sure your print and other media materials reflect the feel and quality of your program:

Make sure all materials convey the sense of professional expertise and purpose appropriate to the project. Use attractive graphics that draw attention to the materials, and include your agency logo.

Consider the audience when creating materials. Use language that is familiar to them. Make sure fonts are large enough for older adults to read comfortably. Choose colors that will be inviting to your target recruits. When appropriate, translate posters and materials into languages other than English (and be sure someone carefully checks the translation).

When possible, use photographs and narratives to convey a sense of the program participants and volunteers. However, don't use images or stories that are sad or discouraging. Portraits of your program should be inviting, and convey a sense of excitement, hope, and purpose. Be sure the photographs reflect the diversity of the pool of potential volunteers.

To ensure that your materials are appropriate and appealing, always have someone who is representative of the people you are

returning to it after retirement, thus limiting the time they have available to volunteer.

4. Think about what could motivate elderly people to volunteer for your programme.

Identify ways to address some of the barriers and encourage older adults to volunteer. For example, they might be interested in volunteering because it will give them the opportunity to:

Increase their satisfaction with life by participating in an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Increase their sense of connection to the community.

Feel productive.
Address a social issue in a way that is consistent with personal values. Use their skills and share their experiences, interests and knowledge.

Learn new skills.
Learn more about youth.
Make new friends through the volunteer experience.
Leave a legacy for the younger generation.
Also identify ways to address logistical barriers such as transportation and the perceived expense of volunteering. Will volunteers be serving in a location that is easily accessible to their homes? Can the program provide any financial incentives to help cover the volunteers' out-of-pocket expenses?

5. Develop a recruitment message that "sells your program."

What is it about your program's mission, goals and population of participants that you can "sell" in order to attract volunteers? In developing your message, consider:

Motivations for volunteering.
Volunteers' roles and responsibilities (including the length of time they will be expected to participate).
Benefits of serving in your program. These could range from benefits to society (making a difference, strengthening a community) to the volunteers' self-interest (learning new skills, acquiring new knowledge, meeting new people) to stipends (if any). Be sure to include information about the training and ongoing support volunteers will receive.

6. Create recruitment materials that will catch people's attention.

A recruitment message can be adapted for a wide range of materials, from flyers and brochures to videos and websites. Be sure your print and other media materials reflect the feel and quality of your program:

Make sure all materials convey the sense of professional expertise and purpose appropriate to the project. Use attractive graphics that draw attention to the materials, and include your agency logo.

Consider the audience when creating materials. Use language that is familiar to them. Make sure fonts are large enough for older adults to read comfortably. Choose colors that will be inviting to your target recruits. When appropriate, translate posters and materials into languages other than English (and be sure someone carefully checks the translation).

When possible, use photographs and narratives to convey a sense of the program participants and volunteers. However, don't use images or stories that are sad or discouraging. Portraits of your program should be inviting, and convey a sense of excitement, hope, and purpose. Be sure the photographs reflect the diversity of the pool of potential volunteers.

To ensure that your materials are appropriate and appealing, always have someone who is representative of the people you are

ovide any financial incentives to help cover the volunteers' out-of-pocket expenses?

5. Develop a recruitment message that "sells your program."

What is it about your program's mission, goals and population of participants that you can "sell" in order to attract volunteers? In developing your message, consider:

Motivations for volunteering.
Volunteers' roles and responsibilities (including the length of time they will be expected to participate).
Benefits of serving in your program. These could range from benefits to society (making a difference, strengthening a community) to the volunteers' self-interest (learning new skills, acquiring new knowledge, meeting new people) to stipends (if any). Be sure to include information about the training and ongoing support volunteers will receive.

6. Create recruitment materials that will catch people's attention.

A recruitment message can be adapted for a wide range of materials, from flyers and brochures to videos and websites. Be sure your print and other media materials reflect the feel and quality of your program:

Make sure all materials convey the sense of professional expertise and purpose appropriate to the project. Use attractive graphics that draw attention to the materials, and include your agency logo.

Consider the audience when creating materials. Use language that is familiar to them. Make sure fonts are large enough for older adults to read comfortably. Choose colors that will be inviting to your target recruits. When appropriate, translate posters and materials into languages other than English (and be sure someone carefully checks the translation).

When possible, use photographs and narratives to convey a sense of the program participants and volunteers. However, don't use images or stories that are sad or discouraging. Portraits of your program should be inviting, and convey a sense of excitement, hope, and purpose. Be sure the photographs reflect the diversity of the pool of potential volunteers.

To ensure that your materials are appropriate and appealing, always have someone who is representative of the people you are

d quality of your program:

Make sure all materials convey the sense of professional expertise and purpose appropriate to the project. Use attractive graphics that draw attention to the materials, and include your agency logo.

Consider the audience when creating materials. Use language that is familiar to them. Make sure fonts are large enough for older adults to read comfortably. Choose colors that will be inviting to your target recruits. When appropriate, translate posters and materials into languages other than English (and be sure someone carefully checks the translation).

When possible, use photographs and narratives to convey a sense of the program participants and volunteers. However, don't use images or stories that are sad or discouraging. Portraits of your program should be inviting, and convey a sense of excitement, hope, and purpose. Be sure the photographs reflect the diversity of the pool of potential volunteers.

To ensure that your materials are appropriate and appealing, always have someone who is representative of the people you are targeting for recruitment review a draft and give you feedback.

7. Plan presentations that put a personal "face" on your programme.

When giving presentations to recruit volunteers use some of the following strategies to make your program less anonymous and the potential recruits less able to "hide" behind their own anonymity.

Let people see the problem their volunteer work will address. People want to make a difference and are often motivated by their heart to volunteer. Use videos, success stories, and photographs to show the social problems the volunteers will address.

Bring along an articulate, older volunteer who can share his or her experiences. If your program is just starting up, but is modeled after another program, you may be able to have a volunteer in that program accompany you to some presentations and convey his/her excitement.

Conduct smaller, more intimate presentations. Though in some ways less efficient, presentations to small groups (less than 20) often work better than large group presentations because they reduce the possibility of anonymity among members of the audience.

Actively involve your audience. Engage potential recruits in dialogue, asking questions such as "How many of you are parents or grandparents?" "How many of you have ever known a child with a disability?" "How many teens in this city, would you guess, can't read a newspaper?" You can also engage the audience in brief activities, perhaps an example of one you use in training. This kind of interaction helps get people away from the "anonymity trap."

Have materials that people can take home with them. These should include volunteer job descriptions, flyers/posters, application forms, general agency literature, and copies of any local or national news articles about the project. Allow time after presentations to interact informally with the people who have attended. Have refreshments available -- it encourages people to stay and talk. Give people something to remember you by. For example, a pencil, key chain, or refrigerator magnet imprinted with the name of your agency or organization.

Never walk away from a meeting where you have given a talk without getting the names and contact information of those who are interested. Pass around an attendance sheet for people to sign who want to receive more information.

If possible, take applications and ask those who know they are interested to complete them on the spot. Be sure you get back to interested applicants within a week.

8. Use a range of recruitment strategies to reach volunteers.

Strategies for recruiting range from the uncomplicated and cost-free to the more complex and relatively inexpensive. These include:

Word of mouth.
Direct mail. Have personal letters written by your agency, sent through other organizations such as local civic associations, community groups, and local chapters of the AARP (American Association of Retired Persons).
Information tables at community events.
Presentations to community groups.
Recruitment meals. These could be potluck dinners or breakfasts that include presentations about your program.
Flyers, posters and brochures. Be sure the flyers are 8 1/2" by 11" so that they can be easily mailed or posted on bulletin boards.

Articles or press releases in local and community newspapers. Take advantage of the fact that community newspapers are understaffed and are looking for good copy. Write a one- or two-page press release describing your program and the need for volunteers, and include a high-quality black and white photograph.

Other organizations' newsletters. Ask religious institutions and relevant local agencies and organizations to run your press release in materials they send out to their members. Presentations on local cable television shows. Look for programming that is aimed at the particular audience you are trying to reach.

Public service announcements (PSAs). Send television stations a ready-made clip, 30 seconds to one minute long. Create radio PSAs that are 20, 30, 45, or 60 seconds in length, and send them to stations or programs that your potential volunteers or their relatives are likely to listen to. Web pages. During recruitment drives, have your message posted on websi