Good Web Site Design
Readability and content are the key
The most important aspects of good Web design are readability and content. In order for the visitor to benefit from the content of your site, it must be designed with clear and simple navigation. Also, choose fonts, colors, and backgrounds that will make your site easy on the eyes. Avoid distracting color schemes, patterns, and flashing images.
The first rule of content is to keep your site client-oriented. Visitors to your site are most interested in how you can help solve their problems and build their wealth.
- A firm biography is not a bad idea, but it does not belong on your opening page. Let visitors know that their financial health is your primary concern. Let them know that you are the expert who can help them.
Be sure to put your name and address on every page! How frustrating it is to find good information on the Internet, then not know who to contact, where to address questions, or how to engage the firm.- Keep your text brief. The average viewer will not usually read lengthy articles. It's best to offer simple and brief text throughout your Web site with encouragement for the reader to contact you for additional details or to make an appointment to answer questions.
- Issues — What are the major areas of concern for your clients? By focusing on relevant issues, you give clients and prospects a reason to "bookmark" your site address and to share it with others.
- Free information — the World Wide Web was founded on the principle of information sharing. Offer free tax and financial tips, or if your site is business-oriented, present information in your site about cash flow, employee issues, and other management concerns.
- Give readers a reason to return. Each time visitors come to your site they should find something new and relevant to their concerns.
- Encourage readers to call or e-mail your office for a free subscription to your printed newsletter. This strategy will help build your prospective client list with qualified leads for future contact.
- Use your site to build name recognition. The latest trend in information-based Web sites is to offer an e-mail newsletter. Invite visitors to request tax updates or timely business tips via e-mail.
If you require a mailing address as well as the visitor's e-mail address, you will have an easy tool for getting qualified prospects into your database.
Remember that the ultimate goal in having a Web site is to build name recognition and to inform your clients and prospects of the value of your services. E-mail newsletters are an inexpensive way to bring you closer to this goal.
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