Many businesses have already discovered that an ecommerce-enabled Web site can create a new revenue stream as well as streamline internal operations. But, what if you would like to expand on that audience and get even more exposure to your products and services?

Placing online classifieds can be a great and inexpensive way to do that.

These days, it seems like everybody and their brother has installed some simple piece of software allowing them to offer online classifieds, but the real trick is to find classified Web sites out there that have already captured your target audience, thus allowing you to place ads where people likely to buy your products are likely to see them.

This may take a little research but a good place to start is industry-related message boards or online forums. Whenever someone posts a message relating to your products and services, be there to help, offer advice and

plug your business when appropriate. Even if that doesn't lead to a direct sale at that moment, it will build trust and credibility among everyone participating in the discussion.

For example, I subscribe to a mailing list relating to Internet professionals in the Southwestern United States. Whenever someone posts a message relating to my area of expertise, I offer free advice with the option of hiring me to solve their problem or develop a professional solution.

This has lead to new clients outside of our local area and helped me establish a solid reputation as an expert in Internet Solutions.

And, the best part is it didn't cost anything other than a little time invested each day or a few times a week.

Another great place to advertise is with newspaper Web sites. YumaSun.com offers their classifieds online, which can be a great way to reach winter visitors. You may also benefit from exposure that larger papers can offer in cities like Phoenix, San Diego, Los Angeles or even areas outside of our region.

To find something more specialized to your market, just start doing some basic searches on the Web and you will quickly be presented with many options.

You may also consider going the route of a more general site with a larger, more diverse audience. For this, eBay.com would be a great place to start.

We have all heard of eBay and a huge number of people use it. So, why not include it as one more venue to promote your products and services? To get started on eBay, visit their Web site and follow the step-by-step instructions for selling online.

No matter which route you decide to go, remember to include your Web site address in all your ads. One line showing your domain name can open potential customers up to all the information about you and your company

that you have already made available on your Web site.