Free ways to increase foot traffic

If you have both a website and a storefront, there are some easy and free techniques you can use to increase foot traffic to your store, office, or restaurant.

1. Online coupons
   Post discount coupons online that must be redeemed in your store. When you talk to your customers in your store, be sure to mention to check your website for special coupons. This not only increases traffic to your website (which can increase your search engine rankings), but your customers will have a reason to return to your business.
   
   
2. Put your website URL on everything
   This may seem obvious, but your website address needs to be on your business cards, brochures, stationary, invoices, cash register receipts, ads, and be prominently visible from outside your location (i.e. in the window or under your business name).
   
   
3. Start a monthly email newsletter
   Give your customers an opportunity to sign up for an email newsletter with updates, specials, news, events, employee profiles, and customer testimonials. I'm not talking about spam--your customers should be able to opt out or opt in as they wish. The articles in your newsletter can include links back to your website for additional details on specific promotions as well.
   
   If you are a FirstClick Web Solutions customer, your website already includes a comprehensive email newsletter manager that integrates with your customer database. Contact Support if you need help setting it up.
   
   
4. Get listed on Google Maps
   Google offers a free service to list your business on Google Maps. When Google Map users look up a nearby address, your business will be shown on the map! You can even create coupon links as part of your listing. (link: http://www.google.com/local/add)
   
   
5. List your business on Yahoo Local
   Similar to Google Maps, Yahoo Local allows you to list your business for free. (link: http://listings.local.yahoo.com/basic.php)