Barbara Soldberg of Lawrence, KS, wrote last week with this question:

"I am working on a new website in order to get my work out there but I would like more information on how to get people interested in actually looking at the website! Just because one makes a website it doesn't necessarily mean anyone will look at it! Or - buy art from it! That's the hard part. I would like more information regarding that."

First, let me congratulate Barbara on the realization (with a bow to the movie Field of Dreams) that just because you build it doesn't mean they will come.

Second, the corollary to that: You have to promote a Web site just as you promote your art.

I think the problem with many artists' sites--and many sites in general--is that they were created without a purpose in mind. "I just have to get a Web site because everyone else has one." I've seen artists plop down obscene amounts of money to get a fancy-pants Web site that does little more for them than they could have done themselves.

Is your Web site a showcase to attract dealers? Or do you want to sell directly from your site? Do you intend to post things besides your artwork (creative writing, for instance)?

After you have decided what your purpose is, you can design a site with your audience in mind. They're your target. They're who you need to visit your site.

When you are creating your site, keep this in mind. If you want to drive people (the general public) to your site, the s.ecret is to provide rich content. I'm not even talking about search-engine optimization. That's a whole other subject! I'm talking about posting content that compels visitors to stop in. Think about the sites you visit. Why do you go there? What do you like about them?

Think of all the ways I get you to visit ArtBizCoach.com:

1. I have this weekly newsletter that supposedly contains information that helps you with your art career. I post links in it to other things on my site and even give a way free reports that, you guessed it, contain links in themselves.

2. I give away a free e-class: "Six Habits of Highly Successful Artists," which anyone can sign up for on the home page at http://www.artbizcoach.com (see, there I go again!)

3. I have a bumper sticker on the back of my car that says ArtBizCoach.com.

4. I put a link in my signature block that goes out with all of my emails.

I'm sure to include the http:// in front of all links because it makes it easier for people to click through. You would be surprised at how many people (not my clients, but other people I email) are intrigued by what I do and want to know more. Likewise, I'm sure they'd be interested in what you do. Everyone loves to meet artists and see new art! Having said that, I am amazed (and appalled) at the number of artists who email me, want something from me, and don't even bother to sign their messages. I refuse to answer email from someone who doesn't bother signing his or her name and spelling out clearly their request.

5. I have a blog that often links to the site. It, too, is geared toward my same niche audience. http://www.artbizblog.com

6. I have three other Web sites that are all connected to ArtBizCoach.com: http://www.stanfieldart.com, http://www.artbizconnection.com, and http://www.artbizworkshops.com

7. My classes and books all have links that reference things on the ArtBizCoach.com site.

8. I always have a stack of postcards to send, pass out or leave in places. ArtBizCoach.com is my brand, so that is most prominent on the postcard.

9. I advertise in certain places.

10. I write articles for Sculptural Pursuit magazine and they are happy to list my site. http://www.sculpturalpursuit.com

11. I speak in public and usually give a handout with a free download. All they have to do is visit ArtBizCoach.com to get it.

12. If you call my voicemail, you'll hear a recording that says I'm sorry I missed you, but I hope you'll visit ArtBizCoach.com to find out about marketing tools for artists, etc.

13. I trade links with other non-competitors in my niche market. I don't send out large broadcasts seeking these trades. I am particular about who I recommend to artists.

I could go on and on, but I think you catch my drift and that you'll be able to apply this information to your own situation. If you need further help, I have developed a nifty tool for you.

See eight ways to promote your site on the Art Biz Blog: http://www.artbizblog.com

KNOW THIS----------~> You must promote your Web site just as much as you promote yourself and your art.

THINK ABOUT THIS---~> Just because you build it, doesn't mean they will come.

DO THIS------------~> Come up with a promotional plan for your site. What is it for? Who is your target audience? Where can you find them? How can you encourage them to visit your site? Don't forget to set deadlines for your actions.

Portfolio reviews and website critiques are also available.

EBSQ is pleased to publish Alyson's work as a regular feature to the EBSQ Zine.