I have been in the Information & Communication, Technology services industry for over 20 years and even now, I still operate an IT business on the lower Gold Coast, Australia, where I provide professional consultations to small businesses. Since purchasing my first domain and developing a website back in 2001, I have had an interest in the internet and technology in general.
My clients often asked me or assume that I grew up with computers; nothing could be further from the truth. (There were limited amounts of ‘green screens’ in my high school during the eighties but they were not particularly appealing to me). I grew up before computers and the Internet were excepted mainstream. I often relate this story about how older generations have said to me, “I grew up before television”. This was a concept I could not quite grasp, as I grew up with television. But when I relate this story to the birth of the Internet in Australia (during the mid-90’s), I now understand what they meant, as I myself, grew up before the Internet.
Our core business to date has been buying, selling domain names, and developing websites. Today, more than ever, I strongly believe a good website presence, can help expose you or your business to massive upside opportunity. Having your own piece of online real estate is empowering, as it is your terms; you are in control of your online presence.
Being reliant, or existing solely on social networking websites (like Facebook), to provide you your PRIMARY online presence is risky. What would happen to you or your business if suddenly, they deactivated your account? A breach of their terms and conditions, a buy-out, closing down, not popular any more (MySpace), alleged law breaches (WikiLeaks, Megaupload) and so on? Truth is, they could switch you off in a second, and all is gone! All of your hard work to build up an online presence via these social networking sites, disappears in the blink of an eye. Now I must clarify that I’m not saying don’t use social networking sites, I’m saying don’t rely solely on them for your online brand, image, and presence.
For the reasons above, establishing your own brand, your own website and web presence (that you control), is essential.
Ian Piggott
My background is in music, technology & computers, and local history. I hold recognised professional certifications and standards in I.T which I still draw upon today. Attending technology events and educational seminars, help remain up to date and competitive. I’m an active member in the online Web Marketing & Design community with extensive resources to draw upon.