how to build your own small business website

Websites 101: How to Create a Small Business Website

Learn the essential terminology and concepts needed to get started with your business website. We cover domain names, hosting, website builders, tips for hiring professional help, and more.

What You'll Learn:

  • Understanding domain names and hosting
  • Choosing the right website builder
  • Hiring professional help
  • Basic website maintenance
  • Avoiding common pitfalls
  • Building a website on a budget

Why Take This Class?

  • Save hundreds or even thousands of dollars in hosting costs and hiring help - Yes, we're serious!
  • Save countless hours of time and headaches by learning some of the terminology, tips and tricks, and our awesome resource lists.
  • Learn where to find help from low-cost freelancers to choosing the right company to hire.

Class Recording:

YouTube Playlist

Sign up for a FREE account to get access to all available online classes.

Class Agenda

Lecture Part 1: Terminology & Website Essentials

6:00 PM CST - 6:55 PM CST

In the first hour of class, we have a brief introduction then discuss the basic terminology, web hosting, domain names, website builders, essential features and elements of websites, and the best platforms for building your website.

10-Minute Break

6:55 PM CST - 7:05 PM CST

We take a brief 10-minute break where you can grab a drink or snack, take a restroom break, or simply engage in the class live chat.

Lecture Part 2: How to Build a Great Website

7:05 PM CST - 8:00 PM CST

After a short break, we return to cover keys to good design, content, and optimization. We discuss what makes a good website and review some tools and strategies that can help you save both time and money. Next, we discuss how to find and hire help from freelancers to agencies.

Q&A Session (Optional)

8:00 PM CST - 8:30 PM CST

After the lecture is over, if you wish to stay a bit longer, we will have a Q&A session to answer any questions you have. You can submit questions in advance or put them in the live chat.

How It Works

  1. Enrollment: Sign up for a FREE account.
  2. Livestream and Downloads: Before the livestream of the class starts, you will be provided with links to the livestream and to download the materials (notes, slides, resource lists, etc.).
  3. Watch and Participate: Watch the private class YouTube livestream and participate in the live chat. You can submit questions before and during the class, you can also participate in polls and class discussions.
  4. After Class: Recordings of the class will be available after the class is over.
  5. Need Personalized Help? If you would like personalized assistance with a specific project, we offer group and private tutoring sessions.

Requirements

  • Device to view the livestream (computer, tablet, or smartphone)
  • Speakers or headphones
  • Notepad and pen for notes

Prerequisites

  • Basic computer experience
  • Experience browsing the internet