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Your website…what you need to know
Searching the internet, it’s amazing how many poorly conceived websites you come across. While most companies accept that fact that in today’s day and age, having a website is a must, what many don’t realize is that your website can also have a detrimental impact on your business. Like most people, we also spend a lot of time on the internet doing client research. We are always surprised by the number of websites that are doing a real disservice representing their respective companies. The look and functionality of your website can adversely affect the success of your business. Find out below how to correct the common website mistakes that may be turning away potential customers and hurting your bottom line.
1) Make a good first impression
Poor design, animation and flashy graphics can be a distraction from your message and can slow down your site. Your website should look professional to reinforce and convey your brand image. Design your website with your target audience in mind. A simple message will always make a stronger connection with visitors to your site.
2) Provide user friendly navigation
If potential customers are having trouble finding information on your website, they will go elsewhere to get it…and fast! Well thought out navigation will solve this problem. Avoid complex drop-down menus where people can get easily lost. It will only result in frustration and a quick exit from your site – you get very few repeat opportunities.
3) Provide useful and relevant content
Make sure the content on your website is concise and informative. No one has the time to read through long passages of flowery text just to find out what products or services your company is selling. At the same time, take advantage of the space by clearly stating what competitive advantage you have over other businesses in your industry. Give the customer a compelling argument to buy your products or services.
4) Keep your website fresh and up-to-date
Keep them coming back! By frequently adding things like informative articles and current news or announcements about your company and its products and services, visitors will be more likely to return to your website. Adding content also helps to optimize your website (see point #8).
5) If you are contacted, respond promptly
It’s great to provide contact email addresses on your website or client inquiry forms. But they are only useful if you are diligent about responding quickly to questions and requests for information. If you’re going to provide these methods of communication, the least you can do is maximize the benefits for you and your client.
6) Does your website look good every time?
When developing your website, make sure that it is compatible with a variety of computer operating systems and applications. Not everyone uses Microsoft Windows with Internet Explorer or have a 21″ monitor. Associated problems with incompatible programming are quite common. From banners in the wrong place, links not working, and text being covered up, to not being able to see the website at all. The customer would rather go somewhere else rather than have to install another plug-in to see your website as you intended.
7) Be aware of the fact that not everyone has high-speed internet
Some of your potential customers in rural areas may not have access to high-speed internet connections. Even those with fast connections may be frustrated when large graphics or bloated Flash animations make them wait. Even if only 5 percent of your potential customers don’t have high speed internet access, that’s still a loss of sales.
8) Search Engine Optimization
To be ranked at the top of the search engine list is almost like winning the lottery. While many people may claim that they can get your website to the top, it’s a lot easier said than done. But if you hire a good web developer, there are many things that can be programmed into the code and content of the website that will help your site get a better ranking. While there are no guarantees, proper programming and key word rich content gives you a great start.
Every business wants to spend their hard earned money effectively. An experienced web development firm needs to understand your needs, internet marketing strategies, graphic design and several programming languages to make your website successful. For websites, the old saying is certainly true – you get what you pay for. Using your website as an advertising medium is more affordable than using conventional media and can be very effective, but only if it is done right.
That’s where ZOO Media Group can help you stand out in the crowd. Our focus is on creating visually appealing web designs that not only meet the needs of our client, but more importantly, meet the needs of our client’s customers. Many small business owners believe that the simple act of building a website will increase sales and are often disappointed. You can trust ZOO Media Group to design a website for your company that will establish a web presence that will not only attract visitors, it will keep their attention. Contact us today!
