1. Get specific on social media

Social media and especially Twitter are great for driving customers to your website. The best way to build a following is by tweeting or posting regularly, as well as targeting individuals, businesses and media organisations specific to your industry. A mention or re-tweet from an influential account can entice potential customers to follow you or encourage them to click through to your website.

2. Choose a co.uk website address

It’s extremely worthwhile securing a trustworthy domain name for your business – 81% of people in the UK prefer a .co.uk when searching or buying on-line. It shows straight away to potential customers that you’re a trusted British business, and as you’re based in the UK, you won’t be charging international shipping fees. There’s also the chance that Google may rank your website higher for relevant searches in the UK.

3. Host a blog on your website

Dedicate a blog section on your website for images, articles and videos that are relevant to your business. If you have interesting content to show people, it gives them more reason to stay on your website and come back for new updates. If your blog becomes popular it will also help you rank higher on Google. Make sure you’re creating tags for each blog which describe your business and your local area. So when someone searches for your type of business in your area you have more chance of ranking highly. A blog will also complement the good work you’re doing through social media, as it gives you new, engaging content to share.

4. Partner with other sites

If you partner with a complementary website and link to them from your site a few times, then it’s likely they can do the same for you. This means you’ll get a share of their relevant traffic. Make sure you don’t overdo this though – focus on a few main objectives – as the links need to feel natural.

5. Launch a competition or regular offer

Everyone loves a freebie. Showcasing relevant prizes, incentives or offers will attract new customers. This kind of activity also gives you the opportunity to send out newsletters and social media updates to your existing customers with a clear reason for them to revisit your website. Competitions and offers also encourage people to tell their friends to enter, which in turn adds to your traffic and increases word of mouth around your business.