Sometimes we all need a little help. This age-old adage doesn't just apply to people, but to websites as well. Modern marketing and salesmanship depends heavily on your company's website, since the internet is often the first resource potential customers turn to, whether they're looking for real estate or a custom designed prop sword. Therefore it's in your best interests to make sure your website is meeting both the needs of your customers and helping your business reach its full potential. There are a lot of sites out there that aren't. Read on for some common areas in which many business websites need a little help.
Excess or Complex Content
Your website should be designed to present your company's products or services to the customer in a way most likely to be understood by the majority of your client base. This means that if you're a hair stylist, statistics and history should not be taking up space on your website, even if that's where your offices are located. Stick to relevant information such as: what types of hair care services you offer, your qualifications, how to find and contact your offices, and perhaps some testimonials from customers. Don't be tempted to post your life story or hundreds of pictures.
Ease of Navigation
The pages of your website should be linked together in such a way as to make it as easy as possible for customers to find the specific information they are seeking. Avoid lengthy sidebars or menus and always include a site map. If you must have a long menu, confine most of the options to a mouse-over effect. Beware of ads as well. A small endorsement of a dating service doesn't hinder navigation, but a huge banner will drown out your site's content.
Search Engine Ranking
Your website can only be of use to your company if customers are able to find it. There are two main ways to direct customers to your website. The first is to advertise, either on other websites or in other mediums, and the second is search engine optimization. Most people use search engines to locate information, and since there are hundreds of firms specializing in network marketing leads, the best thing you can do is to make sure your company comes in at the top of the list. This can be achieved by hiring a specialized company.
Absent or Seemingly Unsafe Online Shopping
Most people don't want to have to leave their homes to procure products and services, so if your company offers them the ability to shop online rather than directing them to apply in-store, you will have the advantage. Take care when setting up systems that will handle customers' personal information, such as telephone or credit card numbers, however. If the shopping site does not present security certificates customers will not want to risk using it for fear of identity theft.
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