Web Site Advantage

www.seo-website-designer.com

1. Tell us about your business

My business provides services to other small businesses by helping them improve their online presence. That is, I help them optimise and promote their website so that it has a better chance of attracting customers.

2. When and why did you start your business?

I started in January 2010. I'd been working for a website development company for 8 years and in that time I had realised that the actual development of the website was only a small part of the picture. In about 2005 I started helping clients increase the traffic to their website, however I always found this work was not taken seriously by the company and at times was considered to conflict with their interests. No company wants an employee to tell their clients that the website they just commissioned was poorly designed! So, at the end of 2009 I decided to become self employed so I could provide my advice and services without compromise.

3. On a personal level, what have you achieved with your business?

Early days yet! I am far happier. It's stressful, but a different and more enjoyable stress to what I experienced as an employee. I get to develop and research into what I think is important. Something I've always enjoyed.

4. What are some of the challenges you’ve faced in growing your business?

I'm still building up my client base so the biggest challenge is to get to the point where I make enough income to be secure. And I must not forget the central challenge, that I have to show results for my existing clients. Without that I will not get a reputation nor the needed clients.

5. What activities have been successful in promoting your business?

My website. If it was not then I'm in the wrong business. I've found the success rate from people who call me is very high, while email contact is low. I've also found having face to face meetings work well. A corner stone of my business plan is that I am not keeping secrets. I will help and show potential clients what they should do. This is reflected in my website which provides tutorials and tips for website developers and business owners. I may not always get the work, but I feel that being open and honest will win in the long run.

6. What activities were less successful for marketing your business?

The advertising sign on my push bike! I provide free website reports, which so far have not resulted in a client.

7. Name your favourite thing about your business

Happy Clients. I always get a buzz from being able to give good news or if a client says thanks.

8. Who or what other businesses or business people inspire you?

My Dad. Other entrepreneurs or small business owners in the area. There are some great people out there with a happy an positive attitude, and a drive to succeed.

9. What are your plans for the future of your business?

I have a set number of clients I want to work with. This number will let me provide them with the attention required while also giving me the income and security to continue doing research and development in this field. This research will hopefully open up other avenues for income!

10. Share your best business tip with our readers.

Put your phone number and address prominently on your website.

Visit us at: www.seo-website-designer.com