The Real Meaning of Internet Marketing

Internet marketing is almost what may be termed a, “Buzz,” expression in modern times. As the phenomenon that is the Internet expands and grows, more and more offline activities are being conducted by effectively utilising online methods. Very often, conducting certain procedures online in this way instead of by traditional means can not only prove considerably less expensive to administer but notably more successful in effect. Internet marketing is one such procedure and the outlook for the future is that the difference in this respect between Internet marketing and traditional marketing is likely to become only more pronounced.

Defining Internet marketing may in simple terms be achieved by considering that it is the process whereby one uses the Internet and the tools and opportunities which it provides to promote a product, a service, or even an idea, to an audience of people who are either already likely to be interested, or whom one believes one can persuade to become interested. In this respect, Internet marketing differs little in theory from the traditional marketing which has been practised for centuries. It is only when one comes to consider the precise mechanics of how Internet marketing is conducted and the objectives hopefully achieved that the two processes diversify beyond mutual recognition.

Even the most experienced marketer in an offline capacity is likely to be required to do considerable research with regards to the principles of Internet marketing before dipping their toe in the water. There are many who make the mistake of thinking that where they are already established in marketing, adapting their knowledge to function in Internet marketing is a fairly straightforward procedure. When one considers such as the importance of fresh content, keyword density, quality inbound links from around the Web and other important factors with regard to SEO, however, it is not difficult to see how the unwary could be severely hampered by such a misconception.

Internet marketing is in the first instance about establishing a quality Web presence in relation to the subject of that which is to be marketed. This could be in the form of a traditional website, a blog, or even a series of pages on social networking sites. It is vital in the first instance that this presence is created with quality and relevant content, attention is paid to key words and phrases and that every effort is made to popularise the presence and obtain inbound links from wherever else one can around the Web. It is for this reason that Web presences are best created over a multitude of domains and linked together in an effective fashion. The overall presence should be seen to lend value to those visiting it and make them feel that they have either learned or achieved something worthwhile by doing so.

When one has at least made significant inroads in to creating such a Web presence, only then will it be time to focus more significantly on the more recognisable procedures which relate to marketing. These procedures will be about promoting relevant products and services upon one’s websites and blogs which one’s targeted visitors are likely to find of interest and, by using basic sales techniques and skills, convince such visitors to make a purchase or commitment.

Internet marketing is not in theory a particularly difficult procedure but until one can master the techniques and principles required to obtain the necessary Web traffic, traditional marketing principles are likely to prove to be of very little effect.