Basic Rules to Live By - Online Business

I was going through some of my older articles and I found a few that are timeless and are worth repeating. Enjoy...

Being a designer I know the value of a good looking – and eye catching web site.

However, unlike some designers I also know the value of good content it is extremely important.

It is like first impressions – when you see someone you judge them within less than 3 minutes of meeting them. Whether you want to admit it or not – it is the truth, it is human nature.

Then if you decide to stick around and get to know this person your impression can change radically – you may find your judgment was right spot on, and you are impressed with them inside and out –or- you may find they are not what you though and they are superficial without any depth.

The same is true for your website.

The first page of your website should capture your visitor’s attention – highlight the positive aspects of your service or product. Capture the essence of what it is you are trying to convey.

Your home page should not be long winded with all the details you can find. It will bore or even turn off potential clients who will feel they do not have time to read it or just feel overwhelmed.

We all lead busy lives and don’t have time to read a novel on the first entrance to a website.

Once your visitor reads what you can do for them – the essence or spark of your service or product you want them to think “wow that is just what I need! Or I really want to know more!

At this point, they will go deeper into your website. They are hooked - That is where you can take the time to explain the benefits they will receive – and what your product/service is all about.

So many times I have a client who wants to put everything but the kitchen sink on the first page

– resist this temptation -.

The truth is the simpler and more descriptive the first page the better – always focus on your visitor - what it will do for the customer or how it will solve client problems…

It makes you visitors want to go further and investigate what you have to offer. However, if your content is too long winded – watered down or just grammatically incorrect, I will guarantee they will not stay on your website to see what you have to offer.

Once someone likes what they see (and read) – they will go further and want to know more details…

So think about it – do you need to refurbish you website – simplify the copy on your home page and make it more appealing to visitors ??

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By: Pamela Jacob – Artista Design
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WordPress Websites - Are They the New "Norm"

The last few years I have seen a big trend – instead having a traditional website built people are opting for WordPress blog’s that are set up like websites.
There are some advantages to this.

1. You can edit copy and put in pictures.
2. They are cheaper to have built because they are actually templates  (pre-built structures) that are customized with graphics and plug-ins.

One problem has now surfaced, traditional websites are being ranked much higher than WordPress Website. This phenomena has happened in the last 6 months. Google decided to shake it up – so if you have a traditional website you will be listed higher on the pages.

That is the optimal way to build your business website having both a blog and a website. This will get you much higher rankings for sure. However, remember you do need to make sure both the Website, and the Blog are Search Engine Optimized. To download a free SEO checklist that you can go through click here.

I am currently developing a section on my website called WordPress Websites – this is for those on a budget that want a relatively inexpensive blog/website. I will have some that can be bought and downloaded that you yourself can customize. I will do tweaking of the banner to reflect your business. I will announce when I have it done.

Honestly – if you want to build your business foundation as strongly as possible   – a standard website with a blog - nothing can beat this winning combination. Make sure blog, is optimized just as much as your website - blogs have some subtle differences. Understands the latest SEO standards – for whatever you have built.

Last but not least - always, always, always host your own blog.







To Exciting Opportunities & Endless Possibilities!

Pamela Jacob ~ Artista Design ~ 801.910.4825

Providing Creative Solutions and Amazing Results!



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