E-Seminar: How Search Engines Work

Did you know that U.S. Internet users conducted nearly 10 billion searches on the top four search engines in the month of December 2007 alone? Did you know that people rely on search engines to help them find their final destination on the web 50% of the time? And very few people look past the first few pages of search results? With so much dependence on Internet search technology, understanding how search engines work and how to adapt your site to rank higher can pay off.

First, a glossary of terms:

Spider – a program that “crawls” the web looking for web pages
Engine – a complex computer program that gives you the results from what you searched
Index – think of this as a phone book's yellow pages, a directory of web pages sorted by keywords and subjects

This post is part of a series on, How Search Engines Work. Content was provided by Dan Purcell www.danemcoweb.com

The big secret: ... the purpose of your web site?

Continuing from the previous post:

Know what links the pages will have, what text will be on each page, and how things will flow. Some even have product images and text documents on a CD-ROM ready before the first meeting.

The big secret is this: take time to think about the purpose of your site is, what items will be on the site, etc., and demonstrate your preparedness to your web developer. Then, because you have come prepared, expect a reward. You have the footing to ask for a good deal because you have saved everyone time and money with your preparation.

Content provided by Dan Purcell of Danemco LLC

Check it out @ www.damemcoweb.com

The Secret to Getting a GREAT Deal on Web Development

Having done web development for a few years, there is a secret that can give you a better negotiating stance when working out the plan for your web site.

I have worked with dozens of clients, and only a small handful have used this principle and gotten a great deal on a well-organized and well-designed web site, in a short amount of time.

There are two groups who come to me -- those who are not prepared and don't know what they want out of their web site, and those who do. Those who have come to me over the years and have given me very specific direction of what they want to achieve on their site get the better deals.

They know what they want the site to look like and can communicate it clearly. Saving time and money.

Content provide by Dan Purcell, Check it out at www.danemcoweb.com

What should I avoid in my advertising?

When you are beginning a new campaign, be sure not to over-promise. You can’t do everything for everyone, everyday. Pick the best service your company can provide, and build around it. You can’t afford to make “cellophane” promises. Everybody can and will see through them. This kind of propaganda approach is a big turn-off to potential customers, and will quickly undermine all the positives in your business.

Content provided by Bonnie Green of Campbell and Associates: Smart Marketing
spongebonn@msn.com

Do I really need a web-site? Part IV—What should I avoid?

If you’re going to go to the expense and time of building a web-site, don’t undermine all of your efforts by using inaccurate information or making spelling errors. If you are going to sell on-line, make sure your site is secure. Having their information stolen will definitely keep customers away. Keep your web-site fresh with tips and sale information, but don’t go crazy with flashing lights. Potential clients are looking to buy, not be annoyed. Also, budget for maintenance and up-grades, but stay in the budget. Don’t sink your physical location trying to keep your site afloat.

Bonnie Green of Campbell and Associates provided this content. sponngebonn@msn.com
Smart Marketing

Do I really need a web-site? Part III—What should I include?

Your website is a great place to put the same type of information you have in a traditional brochure. It’s perfect for showcasing your products and telling potential buyers more about your services. People are looking to save time, so be sure to tell them who you are and why you are in business. Put your motto on the first page, and your logo on every page. Above all, keep it simple. If the customer gets lost on your web-site, it’s almost certain he/she won’t be a returning customer.

Bonnie Green provides this content. sponnbonn@msn.com
Campbell and Associates : Smart Marketing

Do I really need a web-site? Part II—Where do I start?

Now that you’ve decided that your business really needs a web-site, it’s imperative to remember what kind of image you are portraying in your physical location and your traditional advertising. Use this same quality to build confidence through your website. Like any collateral, your web-site should tell people that you are a classy business with classy products and services. Choose what you want customers to know about you and your business. Then, find a domain name and contact a web-designer

Bonnie Green contributed this content. E-mail contact: spongebonn@msn.com
Smart Marketing: Campbell and Associates