It's important to have a web presence, but it is just as important to have a website that brings in traffic. I like pretty and graphically enhanced websites, but I also like websites that are easy to read and easy to locate information.
In doing my research for writing this article- I too realized I was missing a few things.This article will serve as a check list for improving your website. So, my purpose is to show you how to build your website up for maximum traffic, sales and exposure.
Lets get started...
1. Revisit the your goals for having website. What did you want to accomplish with your site? Whom did you want to reach? What impression did you want to make?
Are you are still on task with these goals? If so, then you can move on to #2, if not then look over your website what did you miss, what have you neglected?
2. Do Some Research. Invest some time in studying your competitors. Take note of their strong and weak areas. Make an analysis to determine what you could use on your site and what things you wouldn't do on your site. Ask your customers for feedback also- they will see things that you wouldn't.
3. Show off your slogan - sales message. Do you even have one? If not, then get busy to creating a simple sales message to tells the customers what your business is about.
Then once you have slogan, make sure to place your slogan, along with your company's name at the top of your home page. This will allow visitors to know quickly who you are and what you do.
4. Collect the names of those who visit your site.If you want to follow up on leads and keep visitors returning, you need a way to collect their email addresses. I use Mailchimp. For the best results- try placing the sign-up box at the top of the page, but instead of saying sign up to newsletter, mention some type of benefit the reader receives by subscribing.
Example: "Sign up for FREE newsletter that keeps you up-to- date on new products, sales and special promotions." Another option is ot offer a free bonus such as a special report or e-book to all first-time subscribers. - I'm currently working on an e-book that details the lessons I've learn in starting a creative business. It should be finished by October.
5. Keep the bells and whistles to a minimum. I know those flashy ads and widgets are fun, but they can be very distracting. Lots of times customers are so busy looking at the flashy ads that they miss out of what you are offering. I tend to keep just a few flashy things on my site- and they are typically below my first post.
6. Testimonial. Inject your site with credibility. People like doing business with people they know and trust. Therefore, the more credible you are, the more business you can expect. This credibility status can only be enhanced by a list of compelling testimonials.
Use them on your homepage sprinkle them throughout your other pages. You could have a separate page entitle Testimonials or Satisfied Customers. Currently this is what I need to work on. On my studio blog - I have include testimonials on my custom artwork page. Soon, I will be making these changes.
7. Contact information. Make it easy for customers to reach you. One the most frustrating things I find with some websites/blogs is the time it takes for me to locate an email address. Include an email link underneath you photo or create a Contact Me link at the top of your page.
8. Provide resources related to your business. Look around and you'll see that many successful websites/blogs have lots to offer. In addition to basic information about company services and products, these sites include favorite links, recommend books to read, product reviews and helpful articles. By offering more you will soon reach a status of expert in your industry.
Whew! That's it. I hope this was helpful. I know this was alot of information to take in. Take it slow and do a little at a time. I'm for sure will do the same.
By the way- Did you like this article? Then you'll love my free creative business tips !
Talk with you soon,
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