Site content would have to be one of the most important aspects of your marketing efforts as it induces a customer to purchase and also come back for repeat business.
It is no good getting a customer to your site if it's poorly built or uninformative. Unlike traditional business, where a customer builds a relationship with the business or shop owner, the customer can only build a relationship through the website itself. It is therefore critically important to have a website that incorporates these items:
1. Clear, concise and easy to navigate.
A. The first or second paragraph should tell customers what the website is about.
B. Keep your pages simple and concise.
C. Make sure your pages load quickly with properly editored html.
D. Graphics are nice, however the make the pages load slowly.
E. Make sure all pages are linked and navigation bars are easy to find and use.
D. Too many banners can annoy customers and make your site look unprofessional.
2. Convey trust and expertise.
A. An "about us" page is a must.
B. Include contact details on every page, including phone numbers and addresses.
C. Include testimonials from past clients.
D. Start your own ezine and write articles on relevant issues.
3. Keep the customer at your website for a certain period.
A. Provide free information, advice and articles.
B. Incorporate guest books, surveys competitions etc.
C. Supply links to other websites offering free items, software, counters, scripts etc.
D. Provide free email accounts, ffa page, mini search engine.
E. Include a search facility linked to a major search engine.
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