You built your website—now where’s the traffic?
Whether you’re running a business, blog, portfolio, or storefront, getting eyes on your site is the name of the game. But in a world full of noise and competition, you need more than just “build it and they will come.”
In this post, I’ll break down real strategies (both free and paid) to help you drive more visitors to your website—fast or over time.
1. Master SEO (Search Engine Optimization)
SEO is how you get found when someone types something into Google. And yes—it still works if you do it right.
- Do Keyword Research: Use free tools like Google Keyword Planner, Ubersuggest, or even “People Also Ask” on Google.
- Optimize Every Page: That means your titles, meta descriptions, headers, and even image alt tags.
- Create Blog Content: Write posts that answer real questions your audience is asking. Google rewards helpful content.
- Get Backlinks: These are links from other websites. Guest posts, online interviews, or resource listings are good places to start.
- Local SEO: Claim and optimize your Google Business Profile (essential for brick-and-mortar businesses).
2. Use Social Media Strategically
Don’t just post and hope. Turn social platforms into traffic engines.
- Be Consistent: Post regularly on the platforms where your audience actually hangs out.
- Use Reels, Shorts, and TikToks: Video content dominates the algorithm.
- Hashtags Matter: Use relevant tags to help new people discover your content.
- Engage in DMs: Don’t be afraid to start real conversations—value first, pitch later.
3. Build (and Use) an Email List
Email has one of the highest ROI rates out there—and it’s yours to own.
- Offer a Lead Magnet: A freebie (like a checklist or discount) in exchange for an email address.
- Send Regular Newsletters: Keep your audience updated, informed, and engaged.
- Recover Abandoned Carts (for eCom): Automated follow-ups = saved sales.
4. Invest in Paid Ads (If You Can)
If you want instant traffic, you’ll have to pay to play.
- Google Ads: Great for people searching with buying intent.
- Facebook/Instagram Ads: Use detailed audience targeting to your advantage.
- Retargeting Ads: Follow visitors around the web to remind them to come back.
- YouTube Pre-Roll Ads: Underused, but highly effective if you do them right.
5. Partner With Others (Collabs & Influencers)
You don’t have to build your audience from scratch—borrow someone else’s.
- Do Guest Posts or Interviews
- Host Instagram Live Collabs or Podcasts
- Trade Shoutouts
- Send Products to Micro-Influencers for Reviews
6. Create Buzz With Giveaways and Offers
People love free stuff and FOMO.
- Run a Giveaway: Ask participants to share or tag friends.
- Create Limited-Time Offers: Deadlines increase conversions.
- Launch a Referral Program: Let your current fans bring in new ones.
7. Be Active in Communities
Build your reputation as a helpful expert.
- Join Facebook or LinkedIn Groups related to your niche.
- Answer questions on Reddit or Quora.
- Comment on blogs or forums (non-spammy, of course).
8. Optimize Your Website Experience
No one stays on a slow or confusing site.
- Improve Load Times
- Make It Mobile-Friendly
- Use Clear Calls to Action (CTAs) like “Book Now” or “Download Free Guide”
- Track Behavior with Heatmaps (like Hotjar) to see where people drop off
Bonus: Track Your Progress
What’s the point of driving traffic if you don’t know where it’s coming from?
- Google Analytics: Shows your traffic sources and user behavior
- Google Search Console: Helps you see how you’re doing in search results
- UTM Links: Tag your URLs so you know which post or platform is working
Final Thoughts: Start With What You Can, But Start
Driving traffic isn’t magic—it’s a mix of strategy, effort, and testing. Don’t get overwhelmed by trying to do everything at once. Pick 2–3 of the above tactics and go all in for the next 30 days.
Want help implementing any of these strategies? Need an SEO audit or social content calendar? Let’s talk.