Meli Learns How to Start a Business

Bad and Good Key Words This week we learned the importance of choosing keywords that people might use to search for our products that aren't too broad or too specific. What I learned about Keywords and Google Ads this week has been eye-opening. I never knew that companies choose keywords for their websites. I also didn’t realize how important it is to choose the right keywords to get more traffic to your website. I learned a lot this week about what makes a good keyword and a bad one. You don't want it to be too specific because that could hinder some potential clients but you also don't want it too broad or people will be led to your site that have no interest in your product. For my website, because I am offering Photography portraits in a specific location, it is important that my keywords lead people who need a photographer in Colorado. For example, a good keyword would be “Portrait photography Colorado” instead of just “Pictures”. I look forward to experimenting with ...

Things are starting to get real.... Having to get my website up and running has been stressful. When I researched the different website builders it seemed really easy. Like you just put in your stuff and it made it all look and run perfectly. But when I did it for real it was a lot more complicated. I think I made three different websites before I finally went with one. It was confusing and I am still not sure I know what I am doing. I am going to need to watch some more videos to know exactly how to get things to work. I am excited though and feel like this might actually go somewhere. I have said so many prayers about this website and had so many late nights and early mornings working on this site and that is only one part of running a business. I just need to take a deep breath and keep on keeping on. In the end it will all work out.

This week's learning has been really helpful in understanding how to create and run a successful online business. I looked at two websites that are similar to my business idea and noticed they have some design features in common. For example, they both have a blog, about us page, and portfolio at the side of the page and in a clear and easy-to-use menu. They also show multiple high-quality photos on the front page and have security symbols to make customers feel safe. I also learned about the differences between e-commerce and non-ecommerce sites. One big difference between ecommerce and non-ecommerce websites is that ecommerce sites need a payment system and a shopping cart. This means ensuring the payment system is secure and following tax laws. This helped me understand all the tools that I am going to need to make sure everything is in place for purchasing to take place on my website. Overall, this week's learning has taught me a lot about what's important for an onlin...

Reflections on Creating and Running a Successful Online Business -Web Hosting This week I learned a lot about web hosting and the importance of comparing hosts and websites beyond just cost. To be honest, I didn’t even know that you needed a web host before this week. This week's assignments helped me gain a deeper understanding of the various options that are available for web hosts and how they can impact the success of my online business. One of the key things that I learned was the significance of selecting a reliable web host that meets the needs of my business and that will work well with the website builder that I choose. I also faced lots of challenges while working on Project One, particularly with getting the forecasts to work. Despite the struggles, I learned a great deal about troubleshooting and the importance of being persistant in overcoming technical difficulties. Through this experience, I realized that creating a website requires a lot more work and planning than...

Blog Post – Week 3: Choosing Between Affiliate Marketing and Drop Shipping This week, I learned a lot about the key differences between affiliate marketing and drop shipping, and how both models have pros and cons depending on your business goals. Through the readings, videos, and class discussions, I’ve realized that affiliate marketing is a great way to start an online business with low risk. Since the affiliate (me) doesn't handle inventory, shipping, or returns, it’s a much simpler and less stressful option—especially for beginners. This was reinforced in the discussion post we reviewed, where the student pointed out that affiliate marketing saves time and reduces complications. However, affiliate marketing also comes with smaller profit margins and requires strong digital marketing to succeed. Without steady website traffic, it's hard to make good money. On the other hand, drop shipping offers more control over pricing and potentially more profit, but it involves more wo...