Small Business: What Type of Web Page?

If you are considering starting a small business the type of web page you should consider for your business can be a simple decision. Consider that your small business must have a web page. Why? Can you find your phone book right now? If you are going to try and find a business, more than likely, (over 85%), you are going to your smartphone, tablet or computer to find a business.

Here are some basic web page styles you should consider creating for your business: 

• Static - Static web pages are just that - they are lacking in movement or changing information. Most often, consulting, service industries with no online purchasing options do best with a static web page. This doesn't mean you can launch a website and forget it. It does need monthly or quarterly maintenance, but the changes will be relatively minor. 
• Dynamic - Maybe you are a motivational speaker, interior designer, or provide some service to your customers. Dynamic websites not only provide the customer with the information they need to know about how you can help them, they provide examples of your work whether video or photo's. They also "teach" the customer about what it is you do. You provide them with information through a blog or FAQ that will help them. This draws people to your website. By being dynamic, adding and updating content frequently, you can reach more potential customers. 
  
• E-Commerce - If you plan to offer products for sale via the Internet, then you need an e-commerce site. You must have product pages, providing information about your products, and then create a sales portal for them to purchase, enter shipping information, etc. E-commerce sites are a great way to expand your customer base as you can reach those beyond your geographic location. With any e-commerce site you need to incorporate all the tools for completing financial transactions and shipping. 

All websites MUST!!!!!! No matter which website style you choose, you should include the following in your website creation: 

1. Ensure that your website will load properly on tablets, and smartphones. Consider reducing the size of pictures, leave out the flashy intro videos so your pages load quickly on any device. 
2. Keep the overall design simple. Most people are going to visit your page for only a few minutes. They will look at the web content for a minute or two to see if you have what they need or want. Flashy, or gaudy web page designs often distract from your message. Sites that are "busy" can be confusing for many so they move on to the next business. They are going to look for contact information and you address if you offer services or products at your location. Often a good rule of thumb is to create a basic, simple landing or home page, then you can link to photo galleries, and other video content from that page. Include a few pics of your products or pics of you in action if you are a consultant, but keep them small to ensure quick loading. 
3. Your web page content must be focused on what you can do for your customer. In other words, "Why would I, as the customer, want to do business with you?" How can you help me, what is it you can do for me. It's all about me, the customer!!!!! Tell me, from my perspective, how you are going to enrich my life, or make it easier for me. 
   
4. Don't rely on your website alone for advertising. Today's major search engines use various algorithms that take into account the users location, home address, previous search results. This makes it difficult to increase your search rankings so you need a marketing campaign. Word-of-mouth advertising, putting your web address on printed materials, and even local ads on television or radio depending on your business. Online advertising through the major search engines is another way to focus on your customer base, reaching those that are looking for your services. 

Create a website for your small business that suits your business type. Change it up as your business needs change. Give thought and then care-and-feeding once your website is started to increase your chances to increase sales.