Do Web Sites Even Work?

Wow, what a scary concept to tackle for someone who makes their living from Internet marketing. 

Do web sites even work?  Do they increase sales for a company at all?

I have often used my own business as an example of how a web site can successfully connect you with clients worldwide and make sales for you.  But some people say "Sure, it works for YOU, Garland because your field is Internet marketing.  But does it work for non-Internet marketing related businesses?"

Yes it does!  According to a 2004 survey by AC Neilson.  In this survey 58% of small business owners said that the Internet had helped their business grow.   15% even said their business survival depended on the Internet.

So web sites work for small business.  If you aren't in the 58%, it is time to figure out why.  Here are a few points to consider:

1. Is my web site of compelling interest to my target audience?  Would it convert a visitor into a customer?

2. Do I have a marketing program with multiple techniques to bring targeted traffic to my site on a regular basis?

3. Do I have a system for tracking which marketing and advertising works?

When all 3 of these steps are in place, your web site will be ready to catapult you into the ranks of the 58% who find their web site is successful.

Garland Coulson, "The E-Business Tutor"
Market while you surf!
FREE Traffic and Research Toolbar for FireFox and Internet Explorer
http://www.freetrafficbar.com 
Moderator, Internet Marketing Tools

Private Reply to Garland Coulson

I would ad the questions:

• "When I look at my top competitor's sites, does mine compare?"
• "Does my site look professional or amateurish?"

Many people make the mistake of thinking if they have a "great deal" with a great marketing message, etc...that's all that is necessary.

I can guarantee, however, that if it looks "amateurish", you'll lose a great many potential customers...

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Build a Better Net
CSKnet
www.csknet.net
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Private Reply to Craig Kiessling