Today you’re going to start setting up your website. Take note that these are the preliminary steps, as later on in this guide you’ll get the steps you need to take for the final set up.
Also note that the going through the exact step-by-step of how to do each of these steps is beyond the scope of this guide. If you are not technically inclined, you can easily outsource any of these tech steps. Check outsourcing platforms to find freelancers, including Fiverr.com, Upwork.com, Freelance.com or Guru.com.
Now let’s quickly go through the steps…
Search for a Domain Name
You’ve decided on a name for your package and a branded theme. Now you’ll want to select a domain name that reflects that name and/or brand. Keep these tips in mind:
· Choose a .com name. People have difficulty remembering other extensions, so stick with .com. (You can of course purchase the other two popular extensions -- .net and .org – just to keep shady competition from trying to make it look like they are associated with your company. However, you should be using the .com version.)
· Select a memorable name that’s easy to say out loud. As an online business owner, most of the time you’re going to be giving people links and buttons to click on. Occasionally, however, you may need to say the name out loud (such as on a webinar). That’s why you’ll want to be sure the name is easy to say out loud, without explaining it.
· Use a reputable domain registrar. Stick with well-known, established companies such as NameCheap.com, GoDaddy.com and similar.
· Don’t search until you’re ready to buy. Some registrars seem to release their search records, meaning other people will buy your searched terms if you don’t. In other cases, someone may have the same idea as you. As such, don’t search a registrar unless you’re ready to buy as soon as you find an available name.
Next…
Secure Hosting
You’ll want to select a reputable webhost, such as HostGator.com, BlueHost.com or similar. Be sure your domain registration and webhosting are through two different companies (as otherwise you may be stuck if the company goes out of business and takes your domain and site with them).
Once you have your host, then do the following:
· Change the DNS. Change your domain name server (DNS) to the two numbers provided by your host. Most domain registrars will have complete instructions for how to do this in their help files.
· Set up your email. You’ll use this for your help desk, getting accounts with services and similar.
· Make a backup plan. Some webhosts will create backups of your site on a regular basis. Even if your webhost does that, be sure to make your own backups.
And finally…
Select Your Tools
You also need to select any tools or services, including:
· Email service provider/autoresponder. Stick with reputable companies such as Aweber.com, MailChimp.com, GetResponse.com and similar. Be sure to read the terms of service carefully.
· Payment processor. Examples include PayPal.com and 2Checkout.com. If you intend to have affiliates, then look at options such as ClickBank.com.
TODAY’S TASK: Your task today is to walk through the steps above to get your domain name, webhost, autoresponder and payment processor. Later in this guide we’ll talk about how to set up your website using these platforms and services.
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