If you want to launch your own website but are unsure what to do first, pay attention to the following list.

First, you need to buy a domain name. Before you purchase your domain name, it will benefit you greatly to be aware of the following guidelines in finding a domain name that will work for you.

The domain name should end with a .com.

Easy to spell.

Not likely to be misunderstood by a listener.

Does not include numeric characters or dashes

The domain name should be catchy, easy to remember.

If possible, describes your product or service.

Now the following are general guidelines and there are a few cases where you may safely ignore a few of them. One case is where you have your own blog rather than on the behalf of your company. If that is the case, many people will use their own name for the domain name, even if it is difficult to spell.

Another possible exception is the last criteria I listed. The best case is to have a domain name which is descriptive, but there are many sites where this is not the case. The best example is Google! (You would think a better name would have been “TheBestSearchEngine.com”.) Give some thought to your target audience and what makes sense to them.

Next, select a web host to host your web pages.

Third, build your site. You will need to decide if you want the traditional “static” type site or if you want the newer blog format.

Fourth, add content to your site. Here is where blogs really shine. In many cases, you can even add content via email! To add content to your blog site, you don’t need any special software; you merely log into the site from any computer and add away to your heart’s content.

Fifth, it is recommended that you construct a set schedule for getting out the word about your site. It is not much good to have a website that no one reads! Several methods of promoting your site exist, including marketing with articles or video, tell-a-friend scripts, the use of press releases, marketing on forums, and posting on blogs.

Having your own website might seem intimidating at first, but it is one of the most beneficial means at your disposal for promoting your business.