Every click and impression is important when you’re just starting a website. The good thing is that even if you’re on a tight budget, you can still use free website promotion strategies to get noticed without spending money.
There are about 1.09 billion websites on the internet in 2024. With so many businesses competing for attention, learning how to use these free tools can help you turn visitors into leads and engagements.
These strategies simplify digital marketing and make it more accessible, giving businesses of all sizes an equal opportunity to compete.
In this article, we’ll explore how effective free website promotion can be and how it can help your business grow. Let’s get started with these tips and you’ll be amazed at how they can boost your marketing efforts without spending a dime.
List Your Business Website on Search Engines
Search engines are where most people go to find businesses, services, and products. By listing your business and linking your website, you’re making it easier for potential customers to find you when searching for terms related to your offer.
1. Create a Google Business Profile
Google is the most popular search engine globally, holding 81.95% of the market share as of 2023. With that number, your website definitely needs to be visible on Google.
Google Business Profile is a free service from Google that allows you to create a detailed listing for your business. This listing includes your business name, address, phone number, website, and operating hours. You can also add photos, respond to customer reviews, and share updates that appear directly in Google search results.
When someone searches for your business or similar services nearby, your Google Business Profile can show up at the top of search results and on Google Maps.
For example, if you own a restaurant, and someone searches for “restaurants near me,” your profile could appear in both Google Maps and search results.
How to Create a Google Business Profile
This step-by-step process will help you set up your Google Business Profile smoothly
- On your computer, sign in to your Google Account. If you don’t have one, create a new account using your business email.
- Go to the page where you can create a Google Business Profile.
- Type in your business name. If your business shows up in the suggestions as you type, you can select it. If someone else has already verified the business, you can request ownership of the Business Profile through these steps.
- Search for the category that best describes your business and click “Next.”
- Decide if customers can visit your business in person.
- If Yes: Enter your business address or place a marker on the map. Then click “Next.”
- If No: Enter the area where you provide services.
- Define your service area by listing the cities, postal codes, or regions you serve. You can add up to 20 areas but try not to extend beyond a 2-hour driving distance from your base.
- Provide your phone number and website URL. If you don’t have a website, you can create one based on the info you’ve entered.
- Click “Finish” to complete the setup.
When a business is added (or claimed) and validated, it usually takes 3 to 4 days to appear on Google Maps.
2. Use Bing Places for Business
Bing is the second most popular search engine in the world, and it is especially popular in the United States which accounts for about a quarter of the global online traffic. It has a global search market share of around 3.43% across all devices.
Bing Places for Business, similar to Google Business Profile, is a free tool from Microsoft that lets you create and manage a listing for your business on Bing. This tool helps promote your website for free by making it more visible in Bing search results and on Bing Maps.
Listing your business on Bing allows you to reach a different group of users, particularly those using Microsoft devices like Windows PCs, which have Bing as the default search engine. Since fewer businesses are listed on Bing compared to Google, your business has a better chance of ranking higher in Bing search results.
Bing also integrates with platforms like Facebook and Yahoo. In addition, it powers voice search for devices like Amazon Alexa and is integrated with Bing Maps, which many businesses use for navigation and location services.
How to Set Up a Listing in Bing Places for Business
Setting up a listing on Bing Places for Business is straightforward:
- Go to the Bing Places for Business website and sign in with your Microsoft account. If you don’t have one, you can create it for free. Then, choose between the two options shown below.
- You have the option to import your business that’s already in Google Business Profile. If you choose “Claim or add your business manually”, fill up the details about your business below such as name, address, and phone number.
- Add more details like your business hours, photos, and a description to make your listing more attractive to potential customers.
- After all the business information has been filled up, Bing will ask you to verify your business. This can usually be done via a phone call, email, or postcard sent to your business address.
- Once everything is filled out, submit your listing for review. Bing will process your submission and make your business visible in search results.
3. Utilize Apple Business Connect
There are around 2.2 billion active Apple devices globally. Listing your business on Apple Business Connect is crucial because it boosts your visibility across Apple’s ecosystem, which includes Apple Maps, Siri, Wallet, and more.
With Apple Business Connect, you can manage how your business appears on Apple Maps. Customers can easily locate you, check your hours, book reservations, or even make calls directly from their devices. The platform also offers a feature called Showcases, where you can promote special offers or events right on your Apple Maps listing.
Apple Business Connect provides free website promotion by increasing your business’s visibility to millions of Apple users. When someone searches for businesses like yours on Apple Maps or asks Siri for recommendations, your business can appear in the results.
This tool also allows you to control how your business information is displayed, ensuring that all details are up-to-date and accurate throughout Apple’s ecosystem.
Registering Your Business on Apple Business Connect
Setting up your business on Apple Business Connect is easy:
- Go to the Apple Business Connect website and log in with your Apple ID. If you don’t have one, you can create it.
- Search for your business on Apple Maps and select it, or add a new place if it’s not listed.
- Ensure your business address, contact information, and other details are accurate. You can adjust the location pin on the map if needed.
- Apple will ask you to verify your business, either through a phone call or by submitting official documents.
- After verification, you can add photos, create Showcases, and include custom action links to promote your website or special offers.
Optimize Your Website SEO
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is the process of optimizing your website for it to rank higher in search engine results. SEO involves various tools, strategies, and techniques, like optimizing your website’s content, improving its structure, and acquiring backlinks from other reputable sites.
Optimizing your website’s SEO helps with free website promotion because it increases your site’s visibility in organic search results. When your website ranks higher on search engines, more people can find and visit your site without you having to pay for ads.
Here are ways to boost your SEO that can also be free website promotion on your part.
4. Use Relevant Keywords
Keywords are the phrases people use to find content online. Understanding what keywords your target audience is using can help you create content that answers their questions.
Use free tools like Google Keyword Planner or Ubersuggest to find relevant keywords with a good search volume and low competition.
5. Optimize On-Page Elements
When it comes to optimizing on-page elements, one of the first areas to focus on is your title tags. These tags are what users see in search engine results, so they should be clear and include your main keyword.
Headings are another crucial element to optimize. Use headings like H1, H2, and H3 to logically structure your content. This makes it easier for readers to follow and allows search engines to index your page more effectively. Including relevant keywords in your headings also helps signal to search engines that your content is aligned with what users are searching for.
Meta descriptions, though not a direct ranking factor, play a vital role in attracting users to click on your link in search results. A compelling meta description, around 150-160 characters, should summarize your content and include your primary keyword.
Lastly, pay attention to your URL structure. Clean, readable URLs that include your target keywords contribute to better user experience and SEO. A well-structured URL helps both users and search engines understand what the page is about at a glance.
6. Improve Page Load Speed and Optimize for Mobile Devices
A fast-loading website provides a better user experience and is favored by search engines. Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights to identify areas where you can speed up your website, such as compressing images or enabling browser caching.
Images often take up a large portion of a web page’s size. Compressing images using tools like Optimizilla or using modern formats like WebP can significantly reduce their size without compromising quality. Additionally, using lazy loading on your images can reduce the initial load time.
It’s also good to practice a mobile-first mindset when it comes to SEO since over 60% of internet traffic comes from mobile devices. Make sure you have a responsive design that adapts well to different screen sizes.
Moreover, implement best practices for mobile responsiveness like touch-friendly buttons, avoiding drop-down menus, and using clear, simple navigation.
7. Use Analytics to Track Your Progress
Monitoring your performance helps you understand what’s working and where improvements are needed.
Set up Google Analytics and Google Search Console to track your site’s traffic, user behavior, and keyword rankings. Regularly review this data to refine your SEO strategy.
Directory and Review Websites
Directory websites are online platforms that list businesses in specific categories, making it easier for users to find services or products they need.
These directories are often organized by industry, location, or other criteria, providing essential details like the business name, address, contact information, and sometimes even customer reviews.
When potential customers search for a service or product you offer, these directories often appear at the top of search engine results. If your business is listed, it increases the chances that people will find and choose your services.
Directory websites promote your business by linking back to your website. When your business is listed on multiple directories, it creates more pathways for customers to find your website.
Here is a list of popular website directories that you should consider joining if they align with your business.
8. Yelp
Yelp is an online platform that allows users to find and review local businesses. It’s one of the most popular business directories, particularly for restaurants, cafes, bars, and service-oriented businesses.
In fact, around 45% of customers would likely check Yelp reviews first before trying a new business establishment.
Users can leave reviews, rate businesses, and share photos of their experiences, making Yelp a valuable resource for people looking to discover new places or services.
Yelp’s primary users are generally well-educated and tend to be in their 20s to 40s. These users often turn to Yelp for recommendations on where to eat, shop, or find services like plumbers or hairdressers.
Because of its strong focus on local businesses, it’s especially popular in urban areas where people frequently search for nearby services or businesses.
9. Sitejabber
Sitejabber is an online platform where users can leave reviews and ratings for businesses, particularly focusing on websites and online services. It’s been described as a Yelp for online businesses.
This platform helps consumers make informed decisions by sharing their experiences and insights about different online companies.
Sitejabber’s demographic includes online shoppers, particularly those interested in e-commerce businesses, digital services, and other online platforms.
10. TripAdvisor
TripAdvisor is a global online travel platform where users can find reviews, ratings, and other travel-related information about hotels, restaurants, attractions, and more. It’s one of the world’s largest travel websites, helping travelers plan their trips by providing insights from millions of reviews and opinions.
TripAdvisor primarily targets travelers of all kinds, ranging from budget-conscious backpackers to luxury travelers. Its users are generally people looking to make informed decisions about where to stay, eat, and visit while traveling.
11. Angi
Angi, formerly known as Angie’s List, is an online platform that connects homeowners with local service professionals. Whether you need a plumber, electrician, or landscaper, Angi helps you find reputable professionals in your area.
It’s particularly focused on home improvement and repair services, offering a wide range of categories to choose from. Angi primarily targets homeowners and renters who need help with home projects, repairs, or maintenance.
Community Forums
Community forum websites are online spaces where people with similar interests, hobbies, or concerns come together to talk about topics, ask questions, and share information. These forums are usually organized around specific themes, like technology, health, or a particular brand.
Being active on community forums lets you directly connect with people who are interested in your industry or products. By participating, you can build trust, offer useful insights, and connect with potential customers.
When your business is mentioned in these discussions, it can influence others’ buying decisions.
Community forums are also a great way to promote your website for free. By giving helpful advice or answers and including links to your website, you can drive traffic to your site. Since forums often rank well in search engine results, your posts can attract visitors who are searching for related topics.
Here are some community forums you should consider joining.
12. Reddit
Reddit is a large online platform that combines social news aggregation, web content rating, and discussion forums. It’s often referred to as the front page of the internet.
On Reddit, users create and participate in communities called subreddits, which focus on specific topics ranging from technology and entertainment to hobbies and more niche interests.
Reddit’s users, known as Redditors, are generally younger. According to data, around 42% of US internet users aged 18 to 24 years old use the platform.
It is particularly popular among tech-savvy individuals and those who enjoy deep dives into specific topics. Reddit is also favored by people who value authentic, community-driven discussions.
13. Nextdoor
Nextdoor is a hyperlocal social networking platform designed specifically for neighborhoods. It allows people living in the same area to connect, share information, and discuss local issues.
This company primarily targets homeowners and renters who want to stay connected with their local communities.
The platform is especially popular among adults aged 25 and older who are interested in neighborhood activities, local services, and community engagement.
Promoting your business on Nextdoor for free is a great way to drive traffic to your website.
14. Quora
Quora is a popular question-and-answer platform where people can ask questions, share knowledge, and provide answers on a wide range of topics.
It’s a community-driven site where users contribute to discussions on everything from technology and business to health and entertainment.
Quora’s user base is diverse, but it tends to attract professionals, students, and enthusiasts who are interested in learning more about specific subjects.
With over 400 million monthly active users, the platform is especially popular among users aged 18-44.
Blogging
Often in the form of articles, posts, or entries, blogging is the practice of writing and publishing content on a website. These posts can cover a wide range of topics, from personal experiences and opinions to detailed guides, reviews, or tutorials.
Blogs are usually updated regularly and provide a platform for individuals or businesses to share their ideas, expertise, and news with a global audience.
You can use blogging as an effective tool for free website promotion. It helps drive traffic to your website without the need for paid advertising.
By optimizing your blog posts for relevant keywords, your website can appear higher in search results, leading more people to click through to your site.
Benefits of Having a Blog
- Each new blog post adds a new page to your website. It creates more opportunities for you to be found in search engines, which can be a free website promotion.
- You can establish yourself or your business as an expert in your field by consistently posting high-quality content. This builds trust with your audience and can lead to more conversions or sales.
- Readers can leave comments, ask questions, and share your content, which helps build a community around your brand.
- Every blog post you write can be shared across your social media platforms. It helps you reach a broader audience and brings more traffic back to your website.
Here are several ways a blog can help you with free website promotion.
15. Build Quality Backlinks
Think of backlinks as votes of confidence from one site to another. When other websites link to your site, search engines view this as an endorsement of your content, which can boost your site’s credibility and authority.
The more high-quality backlinks you have, the better your chances of ranking higher in search engine results.
Of course, the first step in building high-quality backlinks is to provide the best content out there.
As you consistently provide valuable content, you also build a loyal audience that regularly visits your site. This increases your traffic over time without additional marketing costs.
16. Guest Blogging
Guest blogging is an effective method of free website promotion. When you contribute a guest post to another website, you typically include a link back to your own site within the article or in the author bio. This link helps drive traffic to your site from readers who are interested in learning more about your content.
Social Media
Everyone uses social media these days. Because of that, having an effective social media presence is a must for website owners. You can share content that links back to your website through these platforms, which is a free website promotion in itself.
When you post on social media, you can include links to blog posts, product pages, or any other part of your site.
Social media also allows you to interact directly with your customers by responding to comments, answering questions, and building a community around your brand, which can lead to increased customer loyalty.
Maintaining a social media presence is generally free. On top of that, being active on social media can give you an advantage over competitors who aren’t as present online.
Different Ways Social Media Helps with Free Website Promotion
- Content Sharing: Posting links to your blog posts, videos, or products on social media drives traffic to your website. Each post is an opportunity for free promotion.
- Hashtags and Trending Topics: Using relevant hashtags and participating in trending topics can increase the visibility of your posts.
- User-Generated Content: Encouraging your followers to create and share content related to your brand can lead to organic promotion. When they tag your brand or link to your website, it introduces you to their network.
- Influencer Collaborations: Partnering with influencers allows you to reach their followers, who might visit your website based on their recommendations. This can be done even without paid sponsorships if the influencer genuinely likes your product.
- Social Media Contests: Hosting contests that require participants to visit your website or share your content can drive significant traffic and increase your online visibility.
Here’s a list of social media sites you should consider for a free website promotion.
17. Tiktok
TikTok is a social media platform where users create, share, and watch short-form videos. It’s known for its highly engaging and often viral content, ranging from dance challenges and lip-syncs to educational snippets and product reviews.
This social media platform is especially popular among Gen Z and millennials, who are drawn to its entertaining and fast-paced content.
In the US alone, an average adult user spends around 1 hour per day just browsing TikTok.
TikTok also allows you to promote your business for free through creative and engaging content. It’s known for its viral trends, so if your content aligns with these trends, it can quickly gain widespread attention.
18. Facebook
Facebook is one of the biggest social media platforms worldwide where people connect with friends, share content, and engage in communities.
With over 2 billion active users each month, it serves as a key platform for both personal connections and business interactions.
The platform offers many free features, such as creating a business page and posting content. In terms of marketing, it’s a cost-effective way to promote your business.
With Facebook, your business can directly interact with customers. Posting your site’s links on Facebook can further improve your website’s traffic.
19. Instagram
Instagram is a social media platform primarily focused on sharing photos and videos. It allows users to post content, follow other users, and interact through likes, comments, and direct messages.
Instagram’s main user base consists of younger audiences, particularly those aged 18 to 34. It is popular among Gen Z and millennials who are drawn to its visual nature and the ability to share moments through photos and videos. However, the platform is used by a broad demographic, including businesses, influencers, and older adults.
The social media platform is an effective tool for free website promotion. By posting engaging content that includes a link in your bio or Instagram Stories, you can drive traffic directly to your website.
In addition, the visual appeal of Instagram can help showcase your products or services more effectively.
20. LinkedIn
With over 830 million members worldwide, LinkedIn has established itself as the leading social media site for professional networking.
The platform allows users to connect with colleagues, search for jobs, share industry insights, and engage with professional communities.
For business owners, LinkedIn offers the ability to create a dedicated business page. Through this page, you can link to your website, showcase your company, post updates, and share content with your followers.
LinkedIn is also a powerful tool for free website promotion. By sharing valuable content, such as blog posts or articles, you can attract visitors to your website directly from your LinkedIn profile or company page. Engaging with your audience on LinkedIn can further help you build a strong professional presence and expand your network.
21. Snapchat
Snapchat is a social media app where users can send photos, videos, and messages that disappear after being viewed. It’s well-known for its fun features like augmented reality (AR) lenses and filters, which make it popular for sharing creative and engaging content.
For businesses and websites, Snapchat offers custom filters that users in specific locations can add to their snaps, making it a great tool for promoting local events or businesses.
Additionally, businesses can post stories that remain visible for 24 hours. This provides an effective way to share updates, promotions, or behind-the-scenes content.
Final Thoughts
We suggest using these free website promotion strategies to help your business succeed in today’s digital world. These methods work for businesses of all sizes, giving you a chance to compete with bigger companies.
With the right approach, you can turn one-time visitors into loyal customers, build your brand, and increase your revenue. A strong and cost-effective online presence will help your business stay competitive and grow without needing a large marketing budget.
Are you ready to use these free tools to boost your website’s success? Start today and see how these strategies can transform your online presence!