For businesses, having an online presence is a necessity. People rate the credibility, feasibility, desirability, availability, and marketability of a business through its web site. Although traditional marketing methods are still viable, their importance is declining due to the increasing role of the Internet in our lives.
Web Site Design For Customers
Customers are online savvy and prefer buying products and services from web sites of businesses. Even if they visit a traditional store, they would like to check it out first on the web. If they do not find you on the web, they will move on to your competitors. The steps to launch an effective web site are:
The steps to launch an effective web site are:
- Clearly define the purpose of your site. Customers should know at the first glance what the site is about, where to find products and services and at what price, and what are the rules and regulations. Do not compromise the clarity of your site in the name of ‘creativity’.
- Clearly list the benefits of doing business with you. The first and the most crucial question that customers ask whenever you sell them a product is: What’s in it for me? What difference would it make to my life if I buy a product from you instead of a competitor? Your site should clearly indicate the value of what you provide.
- Show the ease with which customers can do business with you. A typical customer’s attention is now only a few minutes long. Your site should be simple and easy to operate. It should mention your availability, contact numbers and addresses, delivery time of products. Think of Amazon.com in comparison to other online retailers. Its success proves that the easier it is for customers to buy products from a site, the more popular it will be.
- Your site should include relationship building elements. When there are hundreds of sites offering the same types of products and services, it is even more important to build a personal relationship with customers. Think about how the traditional shopowners used to build rapport with their faithful clients. Use those elements in your web design, for example, a monthly newsletter, a free tip sheet, advisory board. The customers should feel that you care about them. For example, you are a personal trainer, then you can post steps to a new Yoga regimen. This will not only capture their interest, but motivate them to come back for more.
- Post regular updates to your web site. Just as a traditional store keeps on changing the display in their windows, you should regularly update your site to reflect the new theme, products, and services. Include testimonials from customers on the home page to build customer faith. Your web site should also be free from the threat of hackers and online fraudsters. To do so, your site should have the latest firewalls and technology support. Regular updates to a site give the message that you are proactive. Your customers will see the value in doing business with you.
Initial Investment For WebSite
A successful web site is a crucial part of any business. If you are concerned about the cost of starting a web site, it is just an initial investment. Returns in the form of increased revenue and more customers will soon compensate your investment and increase your profits.
