How to Build a Website that Works!

How To Build a Website That:
Draws Traffic, Converts Visitors Into Buyers and Generates Ongoing Income

Part 1 - Introduction and the 4 Keys to Success

Welcome to the first lesson in this 7 part series in which I will show you How to Build a Website that Draws Traffic, Converts Visitors into Buyers and Generates a Steady Income.

This information is of most benefit to those who either want to use a website to promote an existing business or those who want to learn how to create a website and learn how to realistically earn money online.

This is not pie-in-the-sky. I will show you a plan that is simple and makes logical sense. There are many questionable approaches to making money online or promoting a business, but this is not about how to cut corners and try to scam your way to success. There is no long term value to that kind of approach.

While the plan we will be looking at is simple that does not mean it is easy. I want you to know that we are talking about building a successful online business and it will require some work to make this happen – but each step in the process is clearly laid out and explained so it makes sense. Others have done it and there is no reason why you can't too.

Okay, let's get started...

If you are a small business owner you will already have a good idea of what you want your website to be about. But let's look at this from the point of view of someone like a work-at-home-mom, a retiree, a student or anyone who wants to earn enough through an online business that they can afford to quit their day job and work from home.

The fact is that most websites fail. There are many reasons for this but mainly it comes from a lack of understanding about the process that is required to create a successful and highly trafficked website. Many people hear about all the money being made on the internet and want to get a piece of the pie. That's natural, why wouldn't you?

Unfortunately, it takes more that just “putting up a website” and hoping the money will magically start rolling in. The idea of “build it and they will come” does not work on the web. Not at all.

So before you register a domain name, before you even think about starting to build your website, there are some things you need to do first or you will likely just doom your site to failure. We'll be talking about that more in the rest of these lessons.

Follow Your Bliss

For now I want you to think about what you enjoy! What do you really love to do? What are your hobbies? What special interests do you have? What's you favorite vacation spot? What would you do if you had all the money in the world and could do whatever you wanted?

Something that many overlook is building their website about something they love. Instead they try to chase the dollars and get involved in a niche they're not really excited about. Working on a website like that is just a drag. This lack of enthusiasm translates to the website and it becomes lack-luster. Your visitors are unimpressed and you will wind up not putting enough effort into it because it is such a chore.

That is why I highly recommend that you give serious thought to what you truly enjoy. That way building your online business won't be like work it will be fun. Given the choice who wouldn't want to “work” on what they really enjoy anyway. Here are a couple of other things to consider before you decide on the direction you want to go...

What Do You Know?

The second key element is to find something that you are knowledgeable about or expert in. Even if you are not quite at that level in a given area it should be something that you are interested enough in that you would enjoy doing the research required so you could provide excellent information on that subject.

You can use the knowledge you have gained from your hobbies, special interests or work experience to develop a thriving online business around that theme.

Is There a Market?

Third, think about what kinds of products or services are associated with that subject or niche. Are there many products related to that theme that you could offer your visitors through your site? Would you be able to create an information product, like an e-book, to sell? Are there services related to this niche that you could offer or earn referral fees for referring your visitors to other service providers?

While you don't just want to chase dollars you still need to be sure that there will be enough revenue streams to support your online business.

Is Your Target Market Motivated to Buy?

Finally, you will also want to consider your target audience. Are they motivated to purchase your products or services? Is it easy for them to get what you offer anywhere or do they need to buy from you? Will they want your products in good times and bad or will your business suffer if the economy has a downturn?

List Your Potential Site Concepts

So, start thinking about these ideas and try to take the four key elements into account as you imagine what your website would be about. If you already have a business or a website consider how well your site incorporates these concepts.

You will want to come up with at least 3 preliminary concepts or themes that you might want to develop your website about. Think about your hobbies, things you are passionate about, your favorite vacation spots, knowledge you have from your career, whatever it is that brings you happiness.

What's Next?

In the next lesson we will be looking at the right process you need to follow giving you a big picture view of how you need to develop your website to ensure your success.

If you haven't already, make sure to subscribe to the SBI-Classroom Bulletin. There is no charge right now to join. Just enter your email address and first name in the subscription form at the top right side of any page. Note: I do not give out your email address to anyone!

Until next time...

Your SBI! Instructor

PS. - The course being taught in universities and colleges around the world called "How to Build a Successful Businss Using the Internet" is now available in a convenient eLearning format with qualified instructors that teach you online.

This is more than just a course on online marketing. You will complete this course with a foundation in internet marketing principles and a fully operational online business that you can nurture and grow.

Click the link below to learn more...

Learn How to Build a Website That Works From a Qualified Instructor Online Success Simplified!