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How to Become a Celebrity on the Web How do you generate the kind of buzz that gets you virtual celebrity status? Here are eight tried-and-true techniques for turning your online self into an e-magnet for the people you want to attract most. 1. Put your best screen forward. A browser's first impression of your homepage is crucial. Will the visitor stick around or click to the next site? Go with a professional designer or--if you're graphically inclined--use a DIY program such as DreamWeaver or FrontPage. 2. Develop your niche. The best promotion is crafted specifically for a carefully researched target audience. Find your unique selling point and the people who care--and then sell to them. For example, if you’re a specialist in social media and electronic communication, target people who will need your services. 3. Call up the VIPs. Get on the phone with important contacts and let them know about your online presence. The personal touch makes a world of difference. 4. Network in person. Going virtual is no reason to skip the party--it's just as important as ever to attend meetings and participate in events that relate to your industry. Swap web war stories with other professionals and don't let those business cards burn a hole in your pocket. 5. Use direct mail. Sending postcards and brochures through traditional snail mail is a great way to announce your website and keep people updated on your activities. 6. Post on forums. Spend some time finding the most active forums on your area of expertise, then engage in insightful discussions online. If, for example, you’re good at electronic communication and social media instruction, you'll prove your expertise and establish the connection in people's minds between you and your area of specialty. 7. Write articles that can be reprinted in online e-zines. Syndicate your content and encourage people to spread your writing as far and wide as possible. The more people directed back to your homepage, the better. 8. Link to complimentary sites--and get them to link back to you. If you’re teaching social media and electronic communication and belong to a teachers’ organization, there are plenty of sites to which you could connect. One of the best ways to generate traffic on your site (and thus getting your name and face out there) is by joining forces with similar-minded people and organizations. You're getting the benefit of their advertising and helping your readers by consolidating resources of interest. business communication