Website Design
Just how important is website design when it comes to online marketing?
There are 2 schools of thought on this issue. Some people think that design doesn't matter, and it's all about the content. Then there are those who insist that design is very important as it creates the first impression when visitors come to your site.
I'm convinced that the correct type of design is extremely important. But it really depends on what type of site you are creating and what the purpose is of your site. A squeeze page (landing page) should be very simple and have no distraction that will take away from the desired end result. A branding site, however, probably should have all the bells and whistles as it is very important to your reputation.
All sites should be built for better conversion rates. And, we all want people to stay on our websites longer and read what we have to say. Frankly, the longer visitors stay at your
website, the more chance there is of them taking an action that makes you money.
Of course, we all know that the first impression can be totally wrong, but it still affects
your next decision. And in this case it means to either click off or read on.
If your website is bland and the same as everything else out there, then you will just be perceived as the same for anyone visiting. That's means that your website will be perceived as "more of the same" by your visitors
With enormous competition out there you must have something different stands out from all the "noise" on the Internet. For this reason alone, it makes sense to think about your website design.
Website design is not going to convert your prospects alone. but great design will give you a huge advantage over all the other boring, bland and dull websites out there. A little differentiation goes along way and people pay attention.
Now we have established that we want your site to look great and also show some individualism. But you need to know more about web design.
Before we go on, let me give you some advice. If you decide against building your own website, do not hire a web designer - at lest not if the purpose of your site is to make an income from it. You need to hire a marketer who also knows website building. Your standard webmaster simply does not know how to monetize a site. He's never been trained to know how. All he knows is fancy design.
An ecommerce site must be built with totally functional features in mind. It must be very easy to navigate. Every section must be designed with the final goal in mind. It must be a piece of the puzzle that makes visitors take the action you want them to take. Only a marketing expert can accomplish this for you.
Some website add-ons that can make visitors stay longer on your site and encourage them to return.
Add a message board to your website. People will visit your site to ask questions and answer other people's questions.
Add a free classified ad section. People will then place their own free classified ad and also read other offers.
Add a directory of web site links to your website. People will visit your site to find related
links for the topic they're interested in.
Add an archive of past newsletter issues to your website. People will want to read past issues of your newsletters that they've missed.
Add an article section. People will visit your site to read and learn new information related to their interests.
Add a guest book. People will visit your site to leave their opinions about your business and to list their signature file.
Add a free ebook directory for visitors to download, study and read new information.
Add a free software download page. You will get visitors who are looking to find new software that will make their life easier.A
