In an era where consumers search for information through Google and AI Search before making a purchase decision, going online is no longer a question of “whether to do it or not” for SMEs. Instead, the real question is “where to start” and “how to do it effectively.”
This article outlines the proper sequence for SMEs to begin their online journey, helping businesses build a sustainable digital presence that supports both traditional search engines and modern AI-powered search systems.
1. Start with Business Clarity
The very first thing an SME needs is not a social media page, not a website, and not online advertising—but business clarity.
Business owners should be able to clearly explain:
- What products or services the business offers
- What problems it solves for customers
- Who the primary target customers are
- What differentiates the business from competitors
This clarity forms the foundation of online marketing for SMEs, as search engines and AI systems evaluate business credibility based on the consistency and clarity of information across the digital landscape.
2. Choose the Right Primary Online Channels
SMEs do not need to be present on every platform at once. Starting with one or two core online channels allows for more effective management and better results.
Common online channels for SMEs include:
- Facebook Pages or Instagram for B2C businesses
- LINE Official Account for customer communication and sales conversion
- An SME business website for credibility building and SEO support
Channel selection should be based on target audience behavior rather than platform popularity alone.
3. Is an SME Website Still Necessary?
A website remains a critical component for SMEs, especially from an SEO and AI Search perspective.
A website acts as the central information hub for a business, which search engines and AI systems use as a primary reference source, such as:
- Company information
- Product and service details
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Educational or informational articles
A well-structured website increases the likelihood of appearing in Google search results and being used as a trusted source by AI Search systems.
4. What Type of Content Should SMEs Create First?
Instead of starting with sales-focused content, SMEs should begin with content that answers customer questions and provides useful information.
Recommended content types for the early stage include:
- Articles that explain how to solve common customer problems
- Frequently asked questions customers have before making a purchase
- How-to guides or checklists related to the business
This type of content builds trust and supports SEO for SMEs as well as Answer Engine Optimization (AEO).
5. Should SMEs Run Online Ads from the Beginning?
Running online ads is not inherently wrong, but it should not be the first step if the business does not yet have a clear online presence.
A more effective sequence is:
- Establish clear business information
- Set up primary online channels
- Create foundational content that addresses customer needs
- Understand why customers choose to buy
- Use online advertising to scale results
Running ads without these foundations may lead to unnecessary costs without long-term returns.
How Should SMEs Start Their Online Presence?
A structured and sustainable approach for SMEs going online includes:
- Establishing business clarity
- Choosing online channels that match the target audience
- Having a website or central information hub
- Creating content that answers customer questions
- Using online advertising as a supporting tool, not the starting point
This approach enables SMEs to grow their online presence sustainably while aligning with how modern search engines and AI Search systems work.