Mistake #2:  You Try To Be All Things To All People

Have you landed on a website with so many products or services on its home page that it reminded you of a  toy store?  The website shows every possible thing they have to offer, many of them unrelated. When people see the website, they get confused and ask, “Just what is this company offering?” Instead of trying to figure it out, they make a quick exit.

For example, a website owner may be a watercolor painter and a sci-fi novelist and also offer editing services. If all of this is put on one website, especially on the home page, visitors get confused.  He’s trying to snag potential customers for several things (artwork, books and services) instead of focusing on one kind of buyer, such as people who buy art. As a result, his home page creates confusion.

How to Avoid Mistake #2: Trying to be all things to all people

First, define the primary purpose of your website. Get real clear about what your primary product or service is.  Then make sure your home page focuses on it. If you have several things to offer and they don’t naturally relate to each other — as in the example of the artist/novelist/editor — your best option is to have a separate website for each of them.

When you are clear about your purpose, your website will be clear and your website visitors will “get” what your business is about right away. Clarity dispels confusion.

Find out how to get clear about the purpose of your website in the 8-session telecourse Turn Your Website Visitors into $$$ in 5 Easy Steps, starting Tuesday, February 22.