What are the top five signs that your site needs help?

• There’s no call to action. Many sites present information without ever asking the reader to take action. You’ll never generate leads if you don’t ask for them.
• There are no offers. Give your audience a reason to take a next step. Offer a newsletter, a white paper, a case study, a free analysis or a discount. Just remember that buyers make decisions in baby steps. Your offers should deliver maximum value with minimum risk for the reader.
• It’s all about you. Your site should be more about the reader than it is about you. Every piece of information should showcase the reader’s perspective. Instead of “Heather Sloan offers ...,” say, “You can count on Heather Sloan for …” Get the picture?

• Beware of this SEO Pitfall!

  What’s included with web content development? Suggestions for layout and flow Key messaging that aligns with your unique value proposition Key word integration for search engine optimization Offer development Calls to action Testimonial and/or case study development if needed Tips to organize your page for maximum persuasive appeal Design project management if needed

  Your content hasn’t changed in the last year.
  To optimize search engine performance and repeat visitors, your site must be frequently updated. Post articles, incorporate an RSS feed or host a blog. Fresh content = more site traffic.
• There’s no meat. Most sites take the easy way out with a lot of talk, but no hard evidence of anything different. Exceptional sites incorporate testimonials, case studies, examples and value-added information. This added element of credibility often compels visitors to become customers.

Why is a compelling Web site important?
A strong web presence is important because businesses and consumers who need insurance often shop online before contacting you offline. A June 20, 2008 report by Jupiter Research states, “For every $1 that users spent online in 2007,they spent roughly $6 on off-line purchases that were influenced by online research. Online research has considerable influence on small and midsize businesses' off-line purchases as well.” If users aren’t impressed by your site, you’ll never make the cut to the next step of the research process.

	Audit your site and make a list of things you like and don’t like.
	Visit your competitors’ sites and again, write down your likes and dislikes.
	Think about your users. What functionality will make your site a valuable tool for customers and prospects?
	Ready to optimize your online presence? E-mail me now!