As website designers, we’re often asked about the latest ways to promote a business on the web. We read numerous e-zines (electronic magazines) and newsletters to keep up with the newest technologies and do our best to advise our clients and friends on what we learn. But the other day I had a realization. New is good, but it is important not to forget all the time tested ways to do business. We just have to figure out ways to use those methods on the web.

An example of this, let's look at the business adage “You only have one chance at a first impression!” We all use it in our day-to-day business. We make sure our employees dress appropriately. That they are well groomed. We often train them on how to talk to customers and handle various situations which come up.

Alright, I can hear you saying, “What’s this got to do with my website?”

Everything! Your website is just like another employee. It acts as a contact point between your business and the public. What impression does it give?

Let’s try an experiment. It won’t be easy but try to look at your website as if you know nothing about your organization and this is your first time on the site. What’s your first impression? Do you get the same feeling you want your clients to get when they meet you or one of your employees for the first time?

When I’m shopping, I expect, and occasionally find, employees to assist me in finding what I’m looking for. At stores with good customer service I find sales-people to make sure I found everything, suggest other items which might go with what I want, or even help me find a better solution than the one I had. Does your website do that?

As a visitor, can you find what you’re looking for? Does the navigation assist you, or confuse you? Does the design focus the visit or just throw everything out and hope you find it?

Are your questions answered? Is there a way for you to ask a question? And if you do, does it get answered? I am still waiting for responses to questions I asked weeks ago on the Hamilton Beach and Sonic Care sites.

Go ahead and try it. We’ll wait.

What kind of an impression do you get from your website? If it were an actual employee would you keep them? Train them better? Or just fire them and get someone new?

If you’ve discovered your website doesn’t come up to the standards you’ve set for your other employees CityCenter is ready to assist you in bringing it up to par.

You only have one chance at a first impression! We’re here to ensure the first impression your site gives is the right one.

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