Is your Web site doomed? 3 things to check

There are some really bad Web sites out there. I run across them every day. I mean, I applaud businesses with a Web site. If you don't have one, you are REALLY behind the times. But just having a Web site doesn't ensure that yours is a site that people (your potential clients) want to visit.

There are at least three common Web site mistakes that I see that can easily be corrected. If one or more of them apply to your Web site, you probably should consider getting a Web overhaul. And if you don't think your Web site really matters to your bottom line, then consider this: According to Nielsen//NetRatings, in America there were 218,302,574 Internet users as of March of 2008--that's 71.9% of the U.S. population. And American consumers spend a whopping 15% of their day online. Your clients are online, and they use the Internet to research products, companies and services before they buy.

Common Web site mistakes that may be actually preventing new business:
1. You don't use your Web site to capture leads. A built-in contact form will gather visitor contact information from people who WANT to know more about you. You can use this information to send regular email or snail mail updates and promotions. By staying in front of your potential clients, you'll be at the top of their minds when they are ready to make a purchase.
2. The main information on your site is focused on YOU. Focus on what your clients are looking for and provide information they need and you'll build credibility and trust. Who cares about the "About Us" section? If someone makes it to your site, they need to find out if you have what they're looking for, instantly.
3. You don't know who visits your site. Nowadays if you don't use Web analytics to measure site visits and other data, you are missing out on important information that can help you save money by spending your marketing dollars on what works. And you can see what works by tracking Web site traffic and other data. Google Analytics is a free Web site tracking tool that can be added to any site. Get it and use it. You'll be amazed at what you'll find out about people who visit your site.