As my entrepreneurial journey unfolded, I found myself stepping into the dynamic and complex world of website development and internet marketing. My previous ventures had familiarized me with the power of the online world, but I hadn\’t fully explored its potential. That was about to change. Around 2007-2008, I embarked on my first project to create a website using a content management system (CMS).
The purpose of this venture was to establish an online presence for a book series I had translated and was marketing. The conventional way of selling books in Iran back then involved going through distribution companies and bookstores, a process that often resulted in high commission fees. I, however, envisioned a different path – one that could leverage the power of the internet and allow me to sell my products directly to the customers, thereby eliminating the middlemen.
I immersed myself in the process of building a website from scratch. I had to learn how to use a CMS, how to structure and organize content, and how to make the website appealing and user-friendly. It was a steep learning curve, but I was driven by the desire to make my books accessible to a wider audience.
Creating the website was just the first step. The next big challenge was attracting visitors and converting them into customers. This was my introduction to the world of internet marketing. I began exploring various online advertising platforms and creating ads to drive traffic to my website. I learned about SEO, keyword research, and content marketing. With each step, I discovered new ways to reach potential customers, engage with them, and ultimately, drive sales.
At the same time, I also recognized the importance of delivering value to customers beyond just the product. To justify the higher price of my book packages, I had to offer additional value. So, I began enhancing the packages, adding more content, and focusing on delivering exceptional customer service. This move helped me stand out from the competition and justified the premium pricing of my packages.
One unique aspect of this venture was the dual nature of customer support I provided. Not only was I responding to inquiries and feedback online, but I was also handling phone-based customer support. It was a challenging yet insightful experience that taught me the importance of customer relations and how it contributes to the overall success of a business.
Looking back, my first experience with website development and internet marketing was not just about selling a product; it was a journey of learning, experimentation, and growth. It opened my eyes to the potential of digital platforms, honed my entrepreneurial skills, and ignited my interest in the tech industry, which would later become a significant part of my career.
In the subsequent articles, I will delve deeper into my transition from being a translator and internet marketer to becoming a project manager, systems analyst, and tech enthusiast. Stay tuned for more.