Building a list with a Blog or Website

The easiest way to get started building a list is to use either a blog or a website. What you want is to attract people to a location and then give them a reason to give you their name and email address. The blog or website gives you the credibility, i.e. makes you an “expert”.

The difference between a blog and a website:
There is not a lot of difference between using a blog or website. A blog is a website that has most of the programming done for you. It is easier to set up for those who are not technical. Which ever you decide to use, you will want a sign-up form prominently displayed.

Blogs:
Blogs can be hosted either by the company that makes the blogging software, wordpress, blogger, etc. or on a webhost of your choice. If you plan to use a blog to make money I strongly encourage you to purchase a domain and have your site hosted.

Websites:
Like blogs you need a domain and web host. Some web hosts have software built in that helps you design your website and does not require buying software such as Dreamweaver. If you plan on having a website of your own and are not comfortable designing it, you can outsource the design. Make sure you see examples of the designer and ask for references and then contact them.

Domains and Web hosting:
Internet Marketing guru Mike Filsaime uses www.namecheap.com to buy his domains. I use www.name.com. I find that www.hostgator.com has all the features I need for web hosting. (I am not an affiliate of any of these sites, I just use some of them.) It is often the case that you buy your domain with one company and host it elsewhere.