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Business Owner Tips for Spring

Business Owner Tips for Spring

Easter isn’t the only reason for treats this season. This month, we’ll be sending you three short snippets each week that you, as a business owner, can implement immediately to:

If you ever want help with these things or something else, be sure to reach out.

Website:

Week 1: No matter the business, people will go to your website before they hire you or buy your products. Therefore, make sure all the information on your website is accurate. Nothing turns a potential customer away faster than outdated information. Staff information, hours, and contact information are most commonly neglected. As a business owner, keeping this info updated should be a top priority.
Bonus: Make sure your Google, Bing, and Apple Maps listings are also accurate!

Week 2: Video is one of the most powerful tools for building trust and giving users an immediate sense of who you are. And the best part? It doesn’t have to be professionally produced. While we love working with talented videographers, a simple video recorded on your phone can be just as effective. We can take any raw footage and turn it into something engaging and polished.

Take Pastor Tom, for example—he sent us a basic video clip, and we transformed it into a warm, welcoming introduction. He’s even creating a unique video for every page of his website! It’s a fantastic way for new visitors to get a feel for the pastor and what they can expect from the church before they ever walk through the doors.

Week 3: Create a “Start Here” or “New Visitors” Page
Most websites are built with return users or informed customers in mind—but new visitors often feel overwhelmed or unsure where to begin.

A simple “Start Here” page (or button in the top nav) can:

  • Quickly explain what you do and who you help
  • Direct users to the most relevant services or products
  • Introduce your team or process in a friendly, low-pressure way
  • Build trust with a human tone
  • Think of it as a concierge desk for your website.

Why it works:

  • Reduces bounce rate
  • Increases time-on-site
  • Helps turn curious visitors into qualified leads

Marketing:

Week 1: There are a few opportunities that most businesses miss when marketing their business.

The first is the signature in their email. Make sure it looks good. It does not have to be a fancy design, but it should be nicely branded and similar for each employee—and this is a GREAT space to talk about a current promotion or upcoming event or new product/service.
The second is invoices or receipts. Adding information on something new happening with your business to these mailings or emails you are already sending can elevate your customer’s understanding of your business.
The third is a thank-you note. When someone new does business with you, send them a hand-written note. Bonus if it is designed with your branding! This can be a note card, a postcard, or even an old-fashioned letter.

Week 2: Once you create a video for your website, don’t stop there! That same video can be repurposed in all kinds of valuable ways.

You can share the full version and shorter clips of key points on social media to boost engagement.
Upload it to YouTube and start building playlists—did you know YouTube is the second-largest search engine in the world? (Makes sense, since it’s owned by Google.)

You can also email it to your list to help deepen trust and connection with people who already know you.
Play it at trade shows or events, include it in presentations, and even add a link to your email signature for an easy, professional touch.
A single video can go a long way when used strategically—and as a business owner, leveraging video like this adds serious value.

Week 3: Feature your PROCESS, not just your product.
Most businesses focus all their marketing on the finished product or service—but showing how you do what you do builds trust, transparency, and interest.

Here’s how you can use this:

  • Share behind-the-scenes videos or photos on social media
  • Highlight your tools, techniques, or materials in blog posts or emails
  • Turn your process into a story that customers can connect with (especially if it’s unique, local, sustainable, etc.)
  • Use phrases like: “Here’s how we bring your [product/service] to life…”

Why it works:

  • Builds credibility and sets you apart from competitors
  • Makes customers feel more invested in the end result
  • Encourages sharing (people love seeing the “making of”)

Branding:

Week 1: Did you know that your employees are the most important part of your brand? Most businesses will invest in a logo, a brand guide, signage, business cards, even vehicle wraps—but they will not train their employees on how to live the brand when interacting with customers. This could be as simple as making sure each employee knows the business mission and goals and providing a check list for each customer interaction.

Week 2: Video is also a powerful way to extend your brand. As we talked about last week, your people are the heart of your brand—so let them shine! Invite team members who are willing to step in front of the camera to share their roles, their passion for what they do, and what makes your business special.

These videos don’t have to be long or formal—sometimes the most engaging content is quick, authentic, and full of personality. Let employees highlight their expertise or give a behind-the-scenes look at a part of the business they know best.

Shorter clips from these interviews are perfect for social media, and when your team is wearing branded merch, it reinforces your visual identity too. Bonus points if the video backdrop also includes your logo, space, or product in action!

You could even create a video series—”Meet the Team Mondays” or “Behind the Scenes Fridays”—to build consistency and keep people coming back for more. A smart, approachable move for any business owner.

Week 3: Create “Micro-Brands” Within Your Brand
Instead of making everything feel the same, give special programs, events, services, or product lines their own mini-brand identity — still tied to your main brand, but with a twist.

What this looks like:

  • A signature product line with its own logo or name (think Starbucks’ “Reserve” line)
  • Naming your newsletter something catchy that fits your brand vibe
  • Branded internal initiatives like “Project Spark” or “Customer Hero Awards”
  • Themed events, campaigns, or seasonal content with visual variety

Why it works:

  • Adds depth and flexibility to your brand without losing cohesion
  • Sparks curiosity and engagement (especially for repeat customers)
  • Makes your offerings feel more curated and intentional
Website Redesign for HIV Alliance

Website Redesign for HIV Alliance

We’re excited to announce the launch of the new HIV Alliance website! This website redesign makes it easier than ever for individuals to access vital healthcare and prevention resources while learning more about the incredible work HIV Alliance does in communities across Oregon.

logo for website redesign for HIV Alliance
photo of a awareness booth from website redesign for HIV Alliance

Using your own photos on your website helps create an authentic, trustworthy, and memorable experience for visitors. Unlike stock images, which can feel impersonal and overused, original photos showcase your unique brand, team, products, and services in a way that truly represents who you are. Custom imagery builds credibility and connection, helping potential customers see the real people behind your business. It also enhances SEO, as original images can be optimized for search engines, giving your site a competitive edge. While stock photos may be a quick fix, original photography (and video!) ensures your website stands out and tells your story in the most genuine way possible.

mockup of website redesign for HIV alliance
photo of HIV Alliance Staff

The new website is designed to be clear, user-friendly, and informative. Visitors can easily find resources on treatment options, prevention strategies like PrEP and PEP, harm reduction programs, and behavioral health services. It also serves as a hub for education initiatives, upcoming events, and opportunities to get involved through volunteering or donations.

This website redesign represents an important step in making essential health information and services more accessible to those who need them most. Whether you or someone you know is looking for support, or you want to contribute to this important cause, the new site makes it easy to take action.

Visit HIV Alliance today to explore the new platform, learn more, and find out how you can support HIV Alliance in their mission to create healthier communities.
image of people gathering for a photo
Local Search Marketing Tips

Local Search Marketing Tips

If you took our advice last week, you’ve already started keeping your website fresh with updated content—something both visitors and search engines appreciate. You’ve ensured your brand stays consistent across your site, reinforcing trust and recognition. And best of all, you’ve learned how to boost your site’s SEO without needing an expert. This week, we’re giving you three new local search marketing tips that will help you once that foundation is established!

graphic of some screens displaying SEO content strategy

Your customers love YOU — not stock images.

Using your own photos on your website helps create an authentic, trustworthy, and memorable experience for visitors. Unlike stock images, which can feel impersonal and overused, original photos showcase your unique brand, team, products, and services in a way that truly represents who you are. Custom imagery builds credibility and connection, helping potential customers see the real people behind your business. It also enhances SEO, as original images can be optimized for search engines, giving your site a competitive edge. While stock photos may be a quick fix, original photography (and video!) ensures your website stands out and tells your story in the most genuine way possible.

Your customers love communicating with you — in lots of ways.

Providing multiple ways to contact your small business—such as phone, chat, text, contact forms, and social media—ensures that customers can reach you in the way that’s most convenient for them. Some prefer a quick call, while others may feel more comfortable sending an email or messaging through social media. A variety of contact options builds trust, improves customer experience, and increases the chances of turning inquiries into sales. Making it easy to connect shows that you’re accessible, responsive, and ready to help.

Search engines crave authority! 

Search engines prioritize websites that demonstrate authority and provide valuable, educational content. When your site offers insightful, well-researched information, it builds trust with both users and search engines, improving your rankings. Incorporating local search marketing strategies—such as creating content tailored to your region or targeting location-based keywords—can further enhance your visibility in local search results. One effective way to establish authority is through a blog that answers common customer questions. For example, if you run a home renovation business, publishing guides on topics like “How to Choose the Right Flooring for Your Home” or “5 Signs Your Roof Needs Repairs” positions you as an expert while also improving SEO. By consistently educating visitors, you not only attract more traffic but also establish credibility in your industry.

SEO Content Strategy for Your Website

SEO Content Strategy for Your Website

February is flying by, but there’s still time to show your website some love! Here are three ways to give it the attention it deserves. The best part? A well-loved website gives back—bringing in new customers, enhancing your reputation, and building trust with every visitor. Whether you’re refreshing design elements or refining your SEO Content Strategy, even small improvements can make a big impact.

graphic of some screens displaying SEO content strategy

Content Love: 

Your website should never remain static. Fresh content is a key factor in Google’s search rankings and keeps visitors engaged. Regularly update your site with new work examples, informative articles, case studies, and reviews of aligned businesses. Have a strategy for growth and review your content periodically. Don’t let outdated information frustrate potential customers—ensure your hours, services, and details are always accurate so visitors get the right impression every time they stop by. Consider how these efforts fit into your broader SEO Content Strategy for long-term results.

Branding Love:

Did you know that consistency is one of the most important factors in building a recognizable brand? You may not have the massive marketing budgets of Nike or Coca-Cola, but you can still make a big impact by being consistent. Use the same fonts, colors, and imagery across your website and extend that look to your emails, storefront, and marketing materials. A cohesive brand experience builds trust with prospects and clients, making every marketing effort more effective and maximizing your investment.

SEO Love:

Not every SEO strategy requires an SEO expert. One simple SEO strategy is to get other websites to link to yours. These backlinks improve your chances of being found online. Small businesses can build backlinks by partnering with local businesses, joining organizations like the Chamber of Commerce, and writing guest posts for industry blogs. You can also earn links by sponsoring events, getting blogger reviews, and creating shareable content like guides or infographics.

Ready to show your website some love? Whether you’re updating content, refining your branding, or building a stronger SEO Content Strategy, every step you take makes a difference. If you need help bringing it all together, we’re here for you.

UplinkSpyder Email Security Alert!

UplinkSpyder Email Security Alert!

Your security Spyders want to bring a new scam to your attention that’s been making the rounds. Cybercriminals are using Google Drive notifications to trick people into clicking malicious links, disguising their scam as shared documents or comments. These messages may seem legitimate since they come from Google, but they contain harmful links designed to steal your information. It might be time to rethink your email security.

logo for oh my mini donuts

What to Do If You Receive One of These Emails: 

Do NOT click any links in the email. Even if it looks legitimate, avoid interacting with it.

Mark the email as phishing in your inbox to help Google detect and block similar scams. In Gmail, open the email, click the three-dot menu (⋮) in the top right, and select “Report phishing.”

Go to Google Drive directly (https://drive.google.com) to check if an unknown document has been shared with you. If you see a suspicious document, right-click it and select “Remove” to delete it from your drive.

Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your Google account for added email security.

How to Stay Safe 

Always verify shared documents directly in Google Drive, not through email links.

Be cautious of unexpected sharing notifications from unknown senders.

If you’re ever unsure, reach out to the sender through another method to confirm legitimacy.

Scammers are getting more creative, but with awareness and caution, we can stay ahead of them. Feel free to share this with friends, family, or colleagues to help keep everyone safe online.

Stay vigilant and stay safe!

Best,
All of us at UplinkSpyder