Recently had a “potential” customer meet with me about doing what he referred to as a website. So I met with him went out things about his business and then he asked “So you do websites right?”…My answer was “no what I do is create a web presence”…

Now some of you might think what in the heck is that, so i’m going to explain it to you. Anyone and I do mean just about anyone can create a website. My child created on in I think 8th grade. So yes when I say anyone I mean exactly that.

Now a “web presence” is someone who can not only create a website but can make it so people can actually find the site. An example is if your domain name is “my business website” and someone goes to google and types in “my business website” and that comes up on the 1st page of the search. That is all fine and good but it does nothing for that business. Having that happen typcially will not bring in new business to the person and that is the goal.

If done correctly someone should be able to type in the company name and find the company. If the company specialized in say “pool” they should be able to type in “pools City Name”, “city name pools”, “pool maintenenace City Name”, “City name pool maintenance” etc. There should be quite a few variartions in order to find that company in particular.

I am a firm believer that every company needs a web presence not a website. You need to be able to differentiate between them. If you are going to provide this service make sure you know what you are doing or have a JV with someone that can make sure you are able to deliver these items. Nothing is worse than creating a “website” for a person and they do not make any monies off of it.

What does your website say?

I requested a computer business forum check out my site today and give me some feedback.  I did this because I felt it was a bit crowded, and also because it’s never exactly what I want.  And I’m really glad I did.

I heard things that I never thought about.  Someone told me that he couldn’t tell I did PC repair at all.  Another told me that he wouldn’t ask a “consultant” to repair his computer, he’d look for a computer repair person.

I actually argued about this for some reason, like I was offended (maybe a little).  The message on my site seemed to be directed to a larger business rather than a home-business or a home user.  I realize that I need to review who I want to market to, and how to do so.  It’s a lot to think about.

Also, one person took issue with one of the stock images on the site, of multiple people standing.  He seemed to think that I’m overselling my company, telling prospective customers that there are many people in the company.  Of course, I use the “we” on the website to describe what my company does, I’ve never thought of using “I”.  How do you describe what your “1 person” company does?

It’s amazing what a few words can do to a message.

Here’s the site I requested feedback on.  I’m hoping others will provide feedback too.

http://mandersoconsulting.com