The following tips may be rudimentary for all but the most traditional, old-school small enterprises in Asia, but they bear repeating …

Small businesses are embracing digitalization and catering to their customer needs through a variety of online channels. With new technologies emerging such as AI, taking advantage of online commerce and customer engagement is less cumbersome than ever.

Having a strong online presence with multiple complementary channels can be vital for small- and medium-sized enterprise (SMEs) alike to thrive and grow in today’s competitive digital environments.

With this in mind, here are five tips for SMEs to establish a strong online presence.

It starts with a domain name

 When getting started, check the availability of domain names that resonate with your corporate mission and vision. A domain name can be considered a business’ piece of real estate and identity on the internet. It is a way for customers to easily find a business online.

Choosing and registering a memorable domain name for your business is increasingly important in an expanding digital marketplace. If the .com extension is not available, there are many new extensions available, such as: .shop; .co.; .photography; .tech, to name a few. After choosing a domain name register it with a reliable hosting provider right away.

Build a website

Websites help create visibility for small businesses, and serve as a home base for your business on the internet, even if you have a brick-and-mortar store. A website can help consumers find your business easily, learn about your product offerings and services, and contact you for more information.

A well-designed professional looking website can offer an engaging customer experience with the use of text along with photo images and videos. 

Having a website gives you control over the messaging about your business, and can serve as a hub by linking with your social media channels.

Similarly, some SMEs may choose to host their online website simultaneously (or exclusively) on social media platforms. 

Listen to your customers

The growth of your business is directly related to customer satisfaction.

    • Listen to your customers and pay attention to the needs of your target market.
    • Identify their problems and pain points. How can your offerings act as a solution? Is it possible to develop new products to help solve these problems?
    • Engage for customer feedback and keep an eye on customer behaviour changes and audience interests.

Develop a business support system

 By developing a strong business support system, SMEs can benefit from new ideas on ways to address a particular issue or ideas for growth. In addition to close family and friends, consider mentors and business coaches that can provide relevant insights into your business.

Review your business plan

 Many entrepreneurs make a business plan at the beginning of their business journey, but do not take the time to revisit it periodically. 

So, analyzing aspects of that business plan like target audience and competitors; examining cash flows; and what can make the business profitable — while also checking timelines to reach business goals — is all equally essential to help ensure the continued growth of your business online and offline.