7 Questions About Starting an Online Business

7 Questions About Starting an Online Business

by | May 12, 2025 | Online Business & Mindset

(That You're Afraid To Ask!)

Let’s be honest—starting an online business for beginners can feel like walking into a room where everyone already seems to know what they’re doing. And that can be intimidating, especially if you’re stepping into the digital world later in life.  If you’ve ever wondered about starting an online business, but felt unsure where to begin, here are seven questions that might guide the way.

But here’s a little secret: everyone starts as a beginner.

Even the people who seem confident now once felt unsure about things like websites, email lists, and SEO.  For anyone starting an online business later in life, it’s important to ask thoughtful questions before diving in.

So today, I want to gently walk you through 7 of the most common questions people are too embarrassed to ask—but should! 

No jargon, no tech talk—just real, honest guidance to help you feel more at ease.

starting an online business

1. Am I Too Old for Starting An Online Business?

Absolutely not. In fact, many people in their 50s, 60s and beyond are launching thriving online businesses. You’ve got life experience, work ethic, and stories to tell—and all of that adds richness to your business that no social media trend can compete with.

It’s never about age—it’s about curiosity, willingness to learn, and taking one step at a time.

Check out this story on Startups.co.uk of older entrepreneurs making waves online.

2. Do I Need to Be “Techy” to Do This?

Not at all.

If you can use email and browse the web, you’re already more tech-savvy than you think. Platforms like Wealthy Affiliate offer beginner-friendly tools, training, and support that walk you through everything—from choosing a website name to understanding how to get found on Google.

It’s not about knowing everything—it’s about knowing where to start (and where to ask for help!).

3. How Much Does It Cost to Start?

One of the perks of starting an online business for beginners is that it doesn’t have to cost the earth. You’ll need:

  • A domain name (around £10–£15 per year)
  • Website hosting (some platforms include it)
  • Optional: A training program like Wealthy Affiliate that includes hosting, support, and lessons in one place.  A Starter membership is free.

You can start small, test the waters, and grow gradually.

4. What If I Pick the Wrong Niche?

Choosing your niche (your website topic or focus) is one of the first big decisions—and yes, it can feel scary. But here’s the good news: you’re allowed to change your mind.

Start with something you’re passionate about or curious to learn. If it doesn’t feel quite right after a while, you can refine or pivot. Your first niche is not a life sentence—it’s a starting point.

Need help picking a niche? Try this free brainstorming tool at Ubersuggest or explore niche ideas inside Wealthy Affiliate.

5. What If I Don’t Know What to Write About?

This is one of the most common worries when starting an online business for beginners—but trust me, you have more to say than you think.

Here are a few content ideas to get you started:

  • Share your story (why you started)

  • Answer common questions in your niche

  • Review tools or products you’ve found helpful

  • Write “how-to” posts for beginners

Still stuck? I’ve written an article to help you: How To Come Up With Enough Content For Your Website

6. Do I Need Social Media to Succeed?

Not necessarily.

Social media can help you grow faster, but it’s not essential at the beginning. You can build a simple blog, learn SEO, and bring in traffic through Google without ever posting a dance on TikTok (promise!).

That said, platforms like Pinterest or Facebook can be great ways to reach your audience over time.

Start with one and build slowly.

starting an online business and social media

7. What If I Fail?

Ah, the F-word: failure.

It’s the fear that stops so many brilliant people before they’ve even begun.

But here’s the truth: failure is part of the process. You might try something that doesn’t work—but you’ll learn from it and come back stronger. Every step, even the wobbly ones, moves you forward.

Your first website won’t be perfect. Your first post might feel awkward. But the only real failure is giving up before you’ve had the chance to grow.

If you’re curious about starting your own online business, Wealthy Affiliate has supported me step by gentle step — you can explore beginner-friendly training here

And Finally...

Starting an online business can feel daunting at first—but I hope you can see now that most of the fear comes from not knowing what to expect.

You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to be willing to take one small step. Then another. And another.  Starting an online business doesn’t have to be rushed — especially if you’re taking a thoughtful, steady path.

If you’re looking for a supportive place to learn and grow, I highly recommend Wealthy Affiliate. It’s where I started, and it’s full of friendly faces who’ve felt exactly like you do right now.

What’s the one question you’ve been too afraid to ask about starting online? Drop it in the comments—I’ll answer every one, promise!

Here’s a little transparency: My website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support my mission to bring you quality content.

How to Get Your Website Indexed on Google

How to Get Your Website Indexed on Google

by | May 9, 2025 | SEO Basics

Getting your website indexed on Google means that Google has discovered your site and added it to its database. This allows your site to show up in Google search results, making it easier for people to find you online. If you’re new to this or have absolutely no idea how to get your website indexed on Google, don’t worry — I’ll walk you through it step by step

1. What Does “Indexing” Mean, and Why Is It Important?

Indexing is the process Google uses to discover your website and add it to its database so it can appear in search results. If your website isn’t indexed, no one can find it through Google, no matter how great your products or services are. That’s why getting indexed is an essential first step in putting your business online.

2. Step-by-Step Guide n How To Get Your Website Indexed On Google Indexed

Step 1: Set Up Google Search Console

Google Search Console is a free tool that helps you communicate directly with Google about your website. Here’s how to set it up:

  • Go to Google Search Console.
  • Log in with your Google account. If you don’t have one, you’ll need to create one.
  • Add your website by entering its URL (web address).
  • Verify that you own the website. Google will guide you through verifying your site. This usually involves adding a small code snippet or using your hosting provider.  Google provides clear instructions, and you can always ask your website developer or hosting support for help if needed.
a man walking on a laptop supposed to show how to get your website indexed on google

Step 2: Submit a Sitemap

A sitemap is a file that tells Google which pages exist on your website and how they are connected.

Most website builders (like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace) can automatically create a sitemap for you. Once you have your sitemap, follow these steps:

  • Go to Google Search Console.
  • Find the “Sitemaps” section.
  • Enter the link to your sitemap (usually it’s something like www.yourwebsite.com/sitemap.xml).
  • Submit it, and Google will start looking at your website.

Step 3: Make Sure Your Website Is Crawlable

Google uses automated programs called “crawlers” to explore websites. If your website has any blocks that prevent these crawlers from accessing your pages, Google won’t be able to index them. To check:

  •  Your website isn’t set to “private.” Most website builders have a setting for this.
  • Avoid using passwords or restrictions on important public pages.
  • Use Google Search Console’s “URL Inspection” tool to make sure your pages are accessible.
Creating useful content

Step 4: Create Quality Content

Google favors websites with fresh, useful content. To get your site indexed (and ranked higher in search results), try these tips:

  • Write about topics that matter to your customers. For example, if you run a bakery, you might share recipes or tips on choosing the perfect cake.
  • Use clear, descriptive headings and text so Google understands what your pages are about.
  • Add images and videos if possible, as these can make your content more engaging.

Step 5: Build Links to Your Website

When other websites link to yours, it helps Google find your website faster and understand that it’s trustworthy.

  • Share your website link on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
  • Ask other local businesses or partners to link to your site.
  • Consider creating a blog or sharing useful tips to encourage others to link to your content.

Step 6: Submit Individual Pages (Optional)

If you’ve recently added new pages to your website, you can ask Google to index them right away using Google Search Console’s “URL Inspection” tool. Simply enter the page’s address and click “Request Indexing.”

3. How Long Does It Take?

After following these steps, it might take a few days or weeks for Google to fully index your site. Be patient! You can check your progress in Google Search Console under the “Coverage” section. This will show you which pages are indexed and which ones might have issues.

Be consistent.  It’s better to write one article a week, every week rather than writing seven in the first week and don’t post for another seven weeks.

4. Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not Submitting a Sitemap: This is one of the simplest and most effective ways to help Google find your website.
  • Using Too Much Jargon: Keep your website’s language simple and clear, both for your customers and for Google.
  • Neglecting Mobile Compatibility: Many people browse the internet on their phones. Make sure your website looks and works great on mobile devices.
  • Forgetting to Update Content: A website that’s regularly updated with fresh content is more likely to be indexed and rank well in search results.
common mistakes

Further Information

Click on these links to find out more and Google indexing.

And Finally...

Getting your website indexed by Google is a crucial step toward building your online presence, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following these steps and focusing on creating a helpful, user-friendly website, you’ll be well on your way to reaching more customers and growing your business online.

Remember, if you’re ever unsure about something, there’s no harm in asking for help. Whether it’s a website developer, a tech-savvy friend, a professional consultant or drop me a line in the box below and I’d be happy to help.  

Happy website building!

Here’s a little transparency: My website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support my mission to bring you quality content.

Why Having a Mobile Friendly Site Matters More Than Ever

Why Having a Mobile Friendly Site Matters More Than Ever

by | May 7, 2025 | Website Foundations

When someone talks about having a mobile friendly site, they’re simply talking about a website that looks good and works properly on a smartphone or tablet.

With more people browsing the internet on their phones than ever before, this has become absolutely essential.

If your site isn’t mobile friendly, it could look jumbled, be difficult to read, or slow to load—which means people will likely click away before they even give you a chance.

And it’s not just about user experience—Google also uses mobile friendliness as a ranking factor. So if you want your website to appear in search results, this is a big one to get right!

If your site isn’t mobile friendly, it could look jumbled, be difficult to read, or slow to load—which means people will likely click away before they even give you a chance. And it’s not just about user experience—Google also uses mobile friendliness as a ranking factor. So if you want your website to appear in search results, this is a big one to get right!

not a mobile friendly site

What Makes a Mobile Friendly Site

Here are a few things that make your website easier to use on a smaller screen:

  • Responsive design – This means your site automatically adjusts to fit the screen size.

  • Easy-to-read text – No one wants to pinch and zoom just to read a sentence.

  • Buttons that are easy to tap – Especially important on phones!

  • Quick loading speed – Mobile users don’t have time to wait.

If your site ticks these boxes, you’re on the right path to having a truly mobile friendly site.

How to Check if Your Website is Mobile Friendly

The easiest way is to use Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test tool. Just pop in your website URL, and it’ll show you how your site performs on mobile devices and what to fix if anything’s not quite right.

If you’re using WordPress, many themes are designed to be responsive right out of the box. You can also find mobile optimisation plugins to help make sure everything stays smooth. If you’re not sure where to start, platforms like Wealthy Affiliate provide beginner-friendly guidance and support for building a professional website—including making it mobile friendly.

And Finally...

If you’re building a new website or improving one you’ve already started, making it a mobile friendly site is one of the best ways to ensure visitors stick around—and come back.

It’s not just a “nice-to-have” anymore—it’s essential for connecting with today’s online audience.

How’s your site looking on mobile?

Have you run the Google test or tried a responsive theme?

I’d love to hear how you’re getting on—or if you’ve hit any snags. Drop your questions or tips in the comments. You never know, your insight might help someone else just starting their journey!

Keep Your Website Safe: Why Two-Factor Authentication Is a Must

Keep Your Website Safe: Why Two-Factor Authentication Is a Must

by | May 5, 2025 | Website Foundations

Learning how to keep your website safe is something we all need to do, especially in today’s world where cyber threats are constantly popping up.

One of the simplest and most effective ways to boost your website security is by using two-factor authentication—often called 2FA. It’s like adding a second lock to your front door. In this post,

I’ll walk you through why it matters, how it works, and how you can get it up and running.

two factor authentification

What Is Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)?

Two-factor authentication is a simple but powerful way to keep your website safe. When you log in, you first enter your password (the first factor), and then you verify your identity a second way—maybe by entering a code sent to your phone or scanning your fingerprint (the second factor). It’s that extra layer of protection that stops unwanted visitors in their tracks.

Why is this so important? 

Passwords alone just aren’t enough anymore. Hackers are clever, and they’re getting better every day. With 2FA, even if someone guesses or steals your password, they still need that second piece of info to get in.

Why You Need 2FA to Keep Your Website Safe

Adding two-factor authentication isn’t just for big businesses or tech experts. It’s for anyone who wants to keep their website safe. Whether you’re running a personal blog or managing a business site, your content, data, and user information are valuable—and worth protecting.

Here’s why 2FA is such a game-changer:

  • It reduces the risk of unauthorised access, even if someone gets hold of your password.
  • It boosts trust. When visitors see you’re taking security seriously, they’re more likely to feel safe using your site.
  • It’s becoming the norm. Industries like banking and healthcare already use it, and more and more online platforms are following suit.

And let’s be honest—no one wants their site hacked. It’s not just about lost data; it’s about your reputation too.

Different Types of Two-Factor Authentication

You’ve probably already used 2FA without even realising it. Here are a few common methods:

  • Text messages (SMS): A code is sent to your mobile phone.
  • Authentication apps: Apps like Google Authenticator or Authy generate time-based codes.
  • Biometric methods: Fingerprints or facial recognition—easy and secure.

Each method has its pros and cons, but all of them will help keep your website safe.

keep your website safe

How to Add 2FA to Your Website

Adding two-factor authentication to your site might sound complicated, but most platforms make it really simple. For example:

  • WordPress users can install plugins like Two-Factor or Google Authenticator.
  • Platforms like Shopify and Squarespace often have built-in 2FA settings you can turn on.

Here are a few tips to get it running smoothly:

  1. Choose the right 2FA method for your users.
  2. Communicate clearly. Let your users know why you’re doing this and how it benefits them.
  3. Offer help. Some people might not be familiar with 2FA, so having a short guide or FAQ page can be really helpful.

Keep Your Website Safe with Regular Maintenance

Once you’ve added 2FA, your job isn’t quite done. Here’s how to keep your website safe long term:

  • Check regularly that everything is working.
  • Update plugins and systems to avoid vulnerabilities.
  • Monitor login activity. Use tools or plugins to spot anything suspicious.
  • Support your users. Make sure they know where to turn if something goes wrong.

Security is never a “set it and forget it” task. It’s more like tending a garden—check in often and keep things tidy.

And Finally…

If you want to keep your website safe, two-factor authentication is a brilliant step in the right direction. It’s easy to set up, tough for hackers to beat, and shows your visitors you care about their security.

If you’re brand new to building websites and don’t know where to start, I always recommend Wealthy Affiliate. They offer step-by-step training (including how to secure your site) in a very beginner-friendly way.

For more information on how to keep your website safe, have a look at these links:-

Have you set up 2FA on your site yet? If not, what’s holding you back? And if you have, how did it go?

I’d love to hear about your experience. Pop your thoughts or questions in the comments—it might help someone else who’s just getting started.

What Is Metadata And Why Should You Care?

What Is Metadata And Why Should You Care?

by | May 2, 2025 | Website Foundations

What is metadata? It might sound a little techy, but chances are you come across metadata every single day—whether you realise it or not. From websites and emails to your phone’s photo album, metadata is quietly working behind the scenes to keep everything organised and searchable.

Let’s walk through exactly what metadata is, where you’ll find it, and why it’s so important—especially if you’re building your own website.

What Is Metadata?

Metadata is information about other information. Sounds strange? Don’t worry—here’s a simple example:

Let’s say you snap a photo on your phone. The image is your data, but things like the time, date, location, and even the camera settings? That’s metadata. It helps sort, label, and make sense of files behind the scenes.

On websites, metadata helps search engines understand what a page is about. In music, it helps you find the artist, album, or track length. And in your emails? It’s what shows who sent it, when, and what the subject is—all thanks to metadata.

Showing what is metadata

In short, metadata gives context to your content—helping systems (and people) understand what it is and how to use it.

Different Types of Metadata (In plain English!)

You don’t need to be an expert to understand that there are a few different types of metadata. Let’s break them down:

  • Descriptive Metadata – This tells you the who, what, when, and where of a file. It’s great for finding things. Imagine looking for a blog post by date or an image by title—descriptive metadata helps with that.

  • Structural Metadata – Sounds fancy, but it just shows how things are arranged. Think of chapters in a book or slides in a presentation. It shows what fits where.

  • Administrative Metadata – This is all the techy stuff, like file types, permissions, or when something was last changed. It’s useful for keeping everything working and secure.

How Metadata Shows Up in Everyday Life

Once you know what metadata is, you’ll start spotting it everywhere. Here are a few everyday examples:

  • Music Apps – Ever noticed how your playlist knows the artist, album, and track length? That’s all metadata.

  • Photos – You might not see it, but most photos have hidden info like the date, location, and camera settings.

  • Emails – The sender, recipient, subject line, and time sent? That’s metadata too.

  • Documents – Metadata tracks who created it, when it was last edited, and even how many versions exist.

So, even if you’re not a techy person, metadata is quietly helping you every day.

The Critical Role of Metadata in the Digital Age

Now let’s get to why metadata really matters—especially if you’re building a website or learning about digital content.

  1. Finding Things Quickly
     Metadata helps you stay organised. With so much information floating around online, metadata is what lets search engines—and people—find exactly what they need, quickly.

2. Website SEO and Discoverability
 If you’re starting a blog or website, metadata helps search engines like Google understand what your page is about. Adding good titles, descriptions, and keywords (aka metadata!) makes it easier for your site to be found.

security and metadata
  1. Privacy and Security
     This bit is really important: some metadata can reveal more than you expect—like where a photo was taken. It’s good to know what kind of info your files carry and how to protect it, especially when sharing online.
  2. Systems That Talk to Each Other
     In tech-speak, this is called “interoperability” (bit of a mouthful, I know). It just means different platforms and systems can understand each other, and metadata makes that possible. It keeps your content readable and usable, no matter where it goes.

    Why You Should Care About Metadata: The Benefits

    • Better Search Results
       Whether you’re searching on Google or organising your own website, metadata helps surface the most useful and relevant content.

    • Personalised Experiences
       Streaming platforms or online shops recommend things based on metadata. It’s how your Netflix queue knows you love feel-good dramas!

    • Smarter Business Decisions
       If you’re running a business or online store, metadata can help track what’s working and what needs improving. It’s data that helps you understand your customers better.

    wealthy affiliate going up

    And Finally…

    So, what is metadata? It’s the invisible glue that helps your online world make sense.

    Understanding what metadata is doesn’t need to be complicated—and now you’ve got a solid grasp on the basics! Whether you’re uploading photos, writing blog posts, or building your first website, knowing how metadata works gives you an edge.

    It keeps your content discoverable, helps you stay organised, and even protects your digital footprint. 

    Have you come across metadata before but didn’t realise what it was? Or are you just starting to notice it in your own content?


    Pop your questions or thoughts in the comments—I’d love to know how you’re getting on. And if you’re just starting your website journey, you might find Wealthy Affiliate a helpful place to learn the ropes without the overwhelm.