Tips for Creating a Profit Pulling Direct Sales Website

“If you build it, they will come,” is a well know line from the popular movie, Field of Dreams.  Creating a successful direct sales website is a bit more complicated than just building it.  For those willing to spend the extra time, there are definite rewards. 

Instead of a limited customer base of friends, family and acquaintances, the Internet offers an almost boundless number of consumers throughout the world.  More customers can mean the difference in extra spending money verses a healthy income.  A direct sales website run as a home based business can be started with low overhead costs may be eligible for tax deductions. 

One priceless benefit for work at home moms is the ability to make their own schedule.  They can spend quality time with their kids and save money on daycare.  They are also able to reduce stress, while saving time and spending less on gas, by avoiding the dreaded commute. 

Before starting a website, it is never a bad idea to check out the competition.  How many competitors are there?  A niche market that responds to a need offers a better opportunity for income.  Decide what other websites have done wrong, what they’ve done right and think about how to create a website that stands out. 

Website design can make the difference in a quick glance at the site or a sale.  Planning and organization are the keys to attracting web surfers to a site and ultimately a product. Try to avoid having too little or too much information on the home page.  Proper spacing, product graphics, and descriptive text can entice visitors to browse for more information. 

Websites should load quickly and be easily to navigate.  Large graphics can make a site load slowly, so it’s best to use smaller product graphics with a click through to a larger graphic and more details about each product.  Buttons make more attractive menus than text links.  Place easily identified menu buttons at the top or side of each page. 

Entice visitors to register at the site by offering newsletters, product updates or sales announcements.  Send registered users newsletters, with a link to the website, to remind them about the site and products.  Seasonal reminders, discounts and coupons can create repeat customers. 

One of the most important factors involved in keeping regulars is providing customer service.  Having clear shipping and refund policies posted can save headaches and unhappy customers after a sale.  A link to frequently asked questions could save time by answering customer questions before they send an email.  There should also be a link or form customers can use for feedback and questions. 

Provide a safe, secure checkout for paying customers. Many individuals are impulse buyers and want the ability to make a purchase immediately. Providing several options for paying (check, credit card, etc.) at a secure site reassures customers and protects the website assets as well. There are various companies on the Internet offering secure shopping carts. 

Research, planning and design, marketing, customer service, and a secure site are the first steps to a successful direct sales site.

RECOMMENDED:  Moms Talk Biz Guide to Direct Sales - Everything you need to get your direct sales business of the ground - build your website, get more customers, build your team and more!