Many could argue in our current economy that businesses need to zip up their wallet, pull tight the purse strings and cut down their overheads. This could, and should be true – but to a point! There is a fine line between cutting back, and reinvesting what is reasonable to get and keep your business on track. In a downturn one of the first areas of cutting back is marketing, but it shouldn’t be. Marketing is one of the most important exercises a business can do. If you don’t shout about getting your name out there, your competitor will! And you can bet what you like he’ll do it bigger and louder, and so when opportunities arise who’s name will be at the forefront of the potential suppliers list?
Your website nowadays is your shop window. Users on the internet are becoming more sophisticated and know exactly what they are looking for. With the average time spent on any web page being between 30seconds to 1 minute, that is the ONLY time you have to hook customers into your product or service. Websites need to be clean, simple and easy to navigate. They need to interest the customer. The customer is also looking for more than just basic information, they are looking for a personality to persuade them that your product or service is the best their going to get, and moreover provide the most value for money.


Sponsors of WordCamp UK Manchester 2010

Wow, look at this. I certainly agree with your comments about the need for a website to engage readers and users through it’s personality.
Agree re catching attention quickly, mailshots are 7 seconds from opening to discard so even 30 seconds sounds generous. Businesses must find a way to connect with the target audience and get attention. This means attention to delivery channel plus powerful media.