Cure For Dull Web Sites

Consultant offers tips on how to transform a web site into a customer magnet.

In recent seminars in Canada and the US, consultant and speaker Ingvar Grimsmo said that most web developers ignore influence and persuasion strategies when designing web sites resulting in dismal results.

Grimsmo said that just creating a cool web site does not guarantee success. It is difficult to get qualified visitors to sites, and even a bigger challenge to get them to respond to the sites offer. There are just too many choices.

In reviewing thousands of sites, Mr. Grimsmo has come to the conclusion that most sites are missing probably the most important part of any marketing effort: Influential And Persuasive Text. "We forget that the web can be a great sales vehicle, not only show and tell" he said.

One of the greatest flaws in web design is the lack of attention to the visitor, said Grimsmo. Most sites start off with "Our company", "We", Welcome to.." and other self-centered text. Grimsmo suggests designers focus on the prospective customers problems instead of themselves. Make the visitor realize he or she indeed has a problem, and then state how you can help them. The web is a person to person marketing process, not a mass media.

Another factor he cites is lack of credibility. People are wary of frauds and scams, and want to be sure the company is legit and above board. Grimsmo suggests using testimonials as one of the ways to increase credibility, and always state full company name and contact information.

Mr. Grimsmo is a speaker and consultant, and the Chief Ideasmith at J2 MediaGroup, Inc. He helps clients get better results by introducing them to influence and persuasion strategies. On or off the web.

Visit his web site at: http://www.J2mediagroup.com