It’s now 2009, and I think it’s safe to say that if you have a business, then you need a website. I don’t think I’m alone when I say nobody uses the phone book any more. If you’re ordering pizza, you’re probably going to Google the name of your city and the word “pizza”. It’s faster, has more options, and sometimes you can simply order online.
I think it’s safe to say that having a website for your business is a given. However, now that you have a website, let’s make sure that it contains the key elements needed for online success.

1. Professional. Your website must portray a professional look and feel. Even if your company is a one man show, if your website is top notch, most of your customers will assume you are a big established company. People are comfortable buying from a seemingly established company. They assume other people are buying so it must be ok for them to buy as well.
2. Creative. A creative website is something to remember. The vast majority of websites lack any creativity. Most are developed by people who know how to build a website but aren’t artists. Make sure the person developing your website is an artist. Look all around you. People are naturally attracted to more beautiful things.
3. Clean. A clean website is a must. One of the biggest pet peeves on the internet are websites that are too overwhelming. With increased technology, people are loosing patience. If a visitor goes to website and sees nothing but a mess of cluttered unrelated options to choose from, that visitor will back right out of that site and go somewhere else.
4. Simple. Surprisingly enough, simplicity is often forgotten when building a website. Give your visitors exactly what they’re looking for. Don’t put obstacles in their way. If you’re trying to gain customers and your contact information is impossible to find, you are loosing business. Why not make it available on every page? Don’t make people look everywhere for what they need. Make it obvious or risk loosing customers.

There you have it- four simple tips for a better website.