The digital world can be a daunting place for those who are new to website creation. The challenge lies in distinguishing between a website that is effective and one that falls short. This article aims to shed light on this issue by focusing on the key elements that contribute to a successful website. These elements include global navigation, clean and attractive design, effective sales copy, appropriate text formatting, and value to the visitor.
A successful website must have a navigation system that allows visitors to quickly and easily find what they need. This system should enable them to reach the main sections of the site immediately and should always be available and recognizable.
For instance, www.sybren.net is a good example of a site with effective global navigation. No matter where you are on the site, you can always reach the main sections with a single click. On the other hand, www.magic-city.net is an example of a site where you have to constantly return to the home page to navigate to other pages.
A professional appearance is essential for a successful website. While it's not necessary to hire a professional designer, it's crucial to keep your site organized and free of clutter. To achieve this, create a logical outline of your site's pages and build your site around this outline. Also, remove anything that isn't generating results.
For example, http://imc.sybren.net is a site that exemplifies clean and attractive design.
The sales copy on your site plays a significant role in its success. It should be written with your target market in mind and focus on benefits to the customer, not on features. Incorporate testimonials and keep your copy short unless you're adept at writing long sales copy.
A good example of effective sales copy can be found on www.roibot.com, where the focus is placed on benefits, not features.
Inappropriate text formatting can make your site look unprofessional. Try to keep your use of font styles, sizes, and colors consistent and avoid excessive bolding.
For instance, www.howstuffworks.com is a good example of consistent text formatting. On the other hand, www.business-opportunity.net/fort5000.htm is an example of a site with inconsistent text formatting.
To make your site valuable to its visitors, it must provide something they need, whether it's a product, service, or information. Target your marketing efforts to the right group of people instead of trying to cater to everyone. You can also add value by offering freebies such as newsletters, eBooks, or articles.
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