Is Your Web Site Working FOR You?

05/13/2012 -- Your website is a huge investment. As I've said before, it is your digital branch. This is the introduction to a series of posts in the coming weeks detailing what various types of businesses are missing out on; what these businesses and organizations COULD be doing with their websites, but most likely aren't. I will start by addressing some common things I hear from potential customers.

"I know my business better than you."

Yes, you probably do. You know your trade quite well. I know mine. Mine is making effective websites. I know how people will see your site. I can tell you the first, second, and third things on your page they will look at. I know this stuff (yeah, that's a technical term) so you can spend more time knowing YOUR trade.

"I don't have the time or money to spend on my website."

You wouldn't say the same thing about your physical location. You spend a lot of time and effort making your physical location perfect for selling your product, service, or idea. That's why companies like mine are here. We remember how it feels to be the little guy trying to compete. Personally, I try to set aside time each week to concentrate on smaller companies that have a lot of promise. I love what I do. I love being able to help other people do what they do. When I'm working with a small business, I'm not doing it for the money. It won't be free, but the cost will be affordable. I want you to do well. A market-focused website is an important tool for success. People are researching online before buying a product, paying for a service, or even finding a church. Potential customers want to find a website that is organized and professional. They want to find a website that gives an accurate representation of the quality they can expect from the business or organization. Most importantly, you want that website to be YOURS.

"Why should I pay you when I can do this myself?"

This is my favorite question. I usually turn it around and ask them the same question. Why should somebody pay for YOUR product/service? I generally get the same answer. "Because I can do it right," or some variant implying that they are better than most people at what they do. That is my answer as well. I have spent a LOT of time learning my craft. I know how to make effective websites better than most people. As a business owner, you specialize in your craft. I specialize in mine. I wouldn't even try to build an extension on my house or business because I don't know how to do it right. Sure, I could take the time to study it and learn how, but is that really the best use of my time? I have no doubt that most business owners could study web design and take the time to do their site right. That seems like an inefficient use of time. Why take the time away from doing what you're in business to do?

What's coming in the next few weeks

Over the next few weeks I will be concentrating on various types of businesses and organizations. I will go over my observations of what they are doing right, as well as what I am seeing done wrong. I will give my opinion about opportunities available to each type of business and organization.

Also, I will be starting an opt-in mailing list. Stay up to date on the latest posts on JonsJournal.com! Look for this feature by next week!

Until next time...