Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Learning to Use Email Templates

Email templates can significantly contribute to your marketing strategies more specifically if you have the right information integrated in your design. Being able to come up with an excellent template design that meets the needs and demands of your target recipients will surely take you to greater heights in online marketing. While you can definitely come up with visually creative designs, these will not guarantee that you will catch the critical attention of your target audience.

In choosing effective email templates, you need to have a basic understanding of the tricks and simple tips about email templates. Random choosing is never an option as this will have serious consequence on your over all marketing strategies.

Tip 1: Adding images onto your HTML based email templates can have several setbacks. As you feel that your template really needs to have images on it, the best thing that you can do to ensure that people will not have a hard time viewing them is by adhering to the set web standards particularly in terms of image size and resolution. Also note the fact that there are email browsers that do not display images found on email messages. If you happened to placed and integrated your text information directly onto your image, your recipient may not be able to read them if the email browsers they are using are unable to display images.

Tip 2: CSS codes are undeniably the best means to create a visually attractive and dynamic page but it may not always be good for email templates. Similar to using images, not all email browsers are compatible with CSS codes. As a result, your templates created with CSS codes may not be displayed properly. This therefore renders your message less effective. Specifically to email templates, it is always better to use tables as your alternative to CSS when you want to create an HTML template.

Tip 3: Plain text version of HTML based email templates has its benefits and repercussions also. Most of my mentors who are web developers and social media experts recommend a simple and clear approach to doing online marketing. This includes using plain text to communicate with target recipients. They, however, noted that one must be careful in placing too much textual information in a single message. Lengthy messages often discourage people from reading all the way to the end of the message. As a solution, it is always better to place the brief and concise information of a particular topic. You can easily add link on your message just incase your recipient wants to read further.

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Thursday, August 26, 2010

How to Go About Obtaining Graphics For Your Website

Proper website graphics can liven up and enhance the appearance of any website. The right website graphics can even improve response rates and make visitors feel at ease when browsing on your website. The sole purpose of your graphics should be to communicate a certain message to your viewer that will help to further the advancement of the sale.

You can even use your graphics to help educate a reader about your products and services. When it comes to acquiring graphics, you have the option of purchasing them, getting them for free, or creating them yourself. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, so you should make the decision as to which one is the best for you.

If you hire someone to create your graphics, you know that you're getting top notch designs from someone who does this for a living. The drawback is that you have to pay for this service, but the end result is usually worth it. If you're planning on building a large website and are expecting great results from it, then you should consider this option. If you are on a budget and are looking for a more inexpensive way to get graphics, then this option isn't for you.

If you're on a budget, then you should consider using free graphics for your website. You can find free graphics all over the web and they are a great replacement for professional graphics. Usually you have to give proper credit to where ever you got the image from, but this is nothing in comparison to what the graphics can do for your website.

If you're not someone who prefers free graphics and are looking for a more cost effective solution, then maybe you should create the graphics yourself. You can do this via the use of customizable PSD files that you can quickly edit and place on your website. PSD files are Adobe Photoshop files and you need Adobe Photoshop to open and edit them.

They are a great alternative to hiring a graphics designer and can do wonders for your website. Usually you will find that there are graphics available for your niche and that you can modify them to fit the theme of your website. This is an excellent option if you are on a budget and can do wonders for your website.

There are certain kinds of graphics that you can get for your website. These include the header graphic, the website background image, your product image, and even order button images. All 4 of these kinds of graphics exist and can be used to enhance the appearance of your website.

When using anyone of these graphics, you should take the time to figure out if you really need them or not. If the bulk of your website is dedicated towards content and writing, then you shouldn't focus on graphics too much. However if your website is driven by alot of products, then you should use graphics to help sell your products. You want to use graphics here so that you can give your prospects a visual representation of the product that they will receive.

As mentioned before, website graphics can be easily attained via a graphics designer, for free, or by creating them yourself. You should analyze which option is best for you and decide on the right ones for your business.

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Thursday, August 5, 2010

How to Make the Most of Free Ecommerce Templates and Save on Design Fees

In a perfect world, ecommerce solutions providers would provide custom designed templates to every new sign up while retaining their $50 monthly subscription fee. But unfortunately the dynamics of commerce does not allow that at this point of time.

So the next best thing is to opt for free ecommerce templates that come with the solution. When shopping cart providers first started giving out free template designs with their solution many years back, practically all of the designs pretty much sucked, by today's standards. But things the designs have improved drastically since then. In fact, free template designs are now a pulling factor for shopping cart providers.

The key to making any free template design work for you is finding the best fit. By 'fit' I mean the template's relation to the logo design, the products and the general feel of the store.

Logo Design
I am sure you have come across a few websites where the logo does not seem to fit the template. This is mainly due to the background color of the logo which is usually white. This gives a nasty impression that not much thought was given into the design of the sight. This unprofessional outlook might have a detrimental effect on sales.

To overcome this, some merchants pick the template design first, then have their logo designer create a logo to suit it. Since custom logo designs are very much cheaper than template designs, this is seen as a very viable option. I would suggest not spending more than $100 on a custom logo design. You can get a really good custom logo creation between the range of $70 and $100.

Products
Before selecting a template, give a thought or two to what you will be selling. For example, tactical gear stores usually use templates with bolder colors like black and brown. Stores selling extreme sports equipment use red while those promoting holiday destinations by the beach usually prefer light blue, which is reminiscent of clear skies and the ocean.

But knowing what colors not to use is as important as knowing what colors to use. Some are quite obvious like not using pink on a store selling NFL items. But I have seen a few dental sites using red in their logo design as well as their template design. Red is associated with pain as well as blood so using that hue in dental related designs is a no no.

Store Feel
Free templates come in various colors and designs. Some are neutral and may appeal to a wider market while some may only a appeal to a certain niche. For instance, if you looking to sell pot puree and wellness products, a pastel colored template with floral designs will go a long way in contributing to the calming feel of the store.

I would say that for a start, aspiring merchants should use carefully chosen free ecommerce templates. That would already translate to a saving of at least $300. The only thing that a new merchant should invest in, design wise, is a custom logo. And that should not cost more than $100.

But of course, if a merchant can afford it, then by all means, invest in an intelligently designed template that complements the products being sold.

Here is a little tip. Most ecommerce solution providers have tie-ins with design firms. These design firms provide the templates that ecommerce firms offer for free but they also design custom templates for a fee. I would suggest bugging your shopping ecommerce solution provider for some sort of discount arrangement when you sign up so you can get a logo or template designed at a cheaper price by these associated design firms. Its worth a try.

Harry Goldberg is a retired ecommerce entrepreneur who has built and sold over 100 online stores. He now shares his ideas and tips on how to make full use of logo design creation and where to obtain free ecommerce templates.

Friday, July 16, 2010

How to Create a Web Site That Works For You

Not everyone can afford to hire a professional designer to create a web site, and yet some freely available software doesn't give you the professional look you want. You don't want to have to learn lots of code and programming in order to build your site, so what do you do? The easiest way forward is to find a service that lets you create a web site that works for you, with the input of professional designers, but without the price tag.

This really is achievable if you know where to look. Whether you're designing a personal website for your favourite hobby, a corporate website for your business or an interactive site for a club or society, you want it to look good, encourage users to browse and push potential members, customers or clients your way. Getting the look of your web site just right can make all the difference, which is why you need some professional input about:

Style - too little on your page and your site looks sparse. Too much and people don't know where to look. When you create a web site, you need to get the right balance between text, pictures and design, making your visitors feel welcome and ensuring it's easy for them to get around.

Package - it can be difficult to see what you're getting for your money when you create a web site with third party software. Look for a company that tells you up-front exactly what's included. As a minimum, you'll need a name for your site (the URL), some email addresses, hosting for your site, and enough pages to get your message across. You decide whether you want a basic or more complex package, depending on the features you want to add and the budget you can afford.

Finding an easy-to-use setup that helps you to create a web site that's professional-looking, practical and gives the right impression could be easier than you think.

The Site Idea is an online resource that helps you to create a web site easily and professionally. With hundreds of options available to you and affordable packages - including a free option - you can build a site that works for you. Visit us today to make a start.

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Building Landing Pages That Convert - 4 Key Aspects For Designing Capture Pages

Building landing pages that convert is your primary goal when designing your capture page. The page must be focusing on one singular offer or idea. Instruct the reader what to do by means of a call to action. The action that you state defines the conversions. Any conversion means a lead of a prospective buyer to call, or even better, a sale. You will also want to do be able to measure the performance of your landing page.

Building Landing Pages That Convert - 4 Key Aspect For Designing Capture Pages

1. Design & Layout

Statistics are showing that the simple 'ugly duckling' pages convert at a much higher rate than the fancy looking colourful pages. Designing capture pages that are 'single columned' and without navigational elements work best. The only option available to the visitor should be to enter and proceed the sales funnel process.

When building landing pages that convert, you must have all key elements of your page above the fold. What does that mean? Above the fold, is the top of the page which people see on their screen when visiting. The visible elements above the fold are critical. An image of your product works best when placed to the left of the body text. A capture form works best when placed to the right of text or image. Just make sure it's all above the fold and compelling. Research has shown that visitors decide to stay or leave a page within 8 seconds!

2. Sales Copy

Writing good sales copy is an important aspect of building landing pages that convert. It's a key element for designing capture pages. The headline should deliver on the PPC ad, banner or other advertising campaign. Through the headline you let visitors know that they have landed on the right page, providing them with the info they are looking for.

Include some compelling subheads. Include the benefits to the reader - why should they buy from you? What's in it for the user. It's a fact that most internet surfers scan a page first, before deciding to read the sales copy. When you are designing capture pages, you should do the same. Scroll through your page, read the title and the subheads. Does it tell you a story? Would you want to read the page? Are you compelled?

3. Capture Forms and Buttons

Building landing pages that convert include a capture form that is short and simple. Don't ask for more info than absolutely needed. People don't usually like to give out personal information and details. I personally only ask visitors for their name and email. The phone number is optional but never required. It also helps to put some sort of privacy policy below the form that you commit and adhere to.

The buttons are another key element for designing capture pages. Words like 'submit' or 'enter' are simply not attractive nor are they compelling to the reader. Try using words such as 'Show Me The Biz', 'Buy Now' or 'Download Special Report'. Whatever you choose, use words or short phrases that exactly describes what happens when the user clicks that particular button.

4. Testing

Extremely important! I personally use the Google Website Optimizer but there are other tools available on the internet. What you want to measure is the effectiveness of all the different elements on your page and if they have the capability of converting. Success is achieved by cross testing. Try different things and improve on certain elements in your pages to increase conversions. Here is a list of all the elements you should be tweaking and testing:

- The headline

- Subheads

- Call to action

- Body text

- Button text

- Capture form design

- Graphics

It is my personal experience that through trial and error you can really double the number of your conversions, if not triple them! It is well worth your time and effort.

Designing capture pages that work is something everybody can learn, just like all the other marketing methods and techniques to promote and brand your business online to max out on profits.. Click now learn building landing pages that convert and see what is arguably named the best online internet marketing program available to date, teaching you how to market virtually and product or business, online and offline. Just fill out the form and watch the video on the next page. Just for visiting you also have the option to claim a free website.

Mike Heesen is a home business owner that is, just like you, earning a living to support his family, pay for the mortgage or rent, utilities, needs and other desires. He is a member of the world's largest online mentoring and marketing program. His main activities are helping and showing people how to learn and master the power and potential of the internet to create financial freedom. Over the last year, Mike and his team have made significant marks on the internet. You can be part of his team too. Learn effective online marketing! Go now to http://2wealth-2freedom.com.

Thursday, May 27, 2010

Graphic Design Reminders For Your Website

In designing a website, you will need to learn not only the technical matters but you will also have to be creative. It will take these two for you to come up with a site that will really suit your intended readers. It is natural for you to need to know the codes that you will use for your site to work online. Web design will greatly depend on these codes as these are the main factors that can make your site available for others. As mentioned, you will also have to use your creativity. This will be the key for your site to get and maintain a hold of your audience's attention. The success of a website will depend on the number of readers that you can drive to your site. Hence, you will have to improve on it so that more readers will be interested on what your site has.

One should not forget that there is a better chance for you to get to your audience if your site is appealing to them. Aside from the content, you should also focus on the design. This can make a difference as you can be able to catch the attention of more people and drive them to browse more pages of your website. Content can keep your target audience into your site but you can improve on this chance of you can make your site visually appealing for them.

Aside from what is mentioned, there are more reasons why web design is important. If you have a site and you use it for business, it is more necessary for you to engage in the right web design process. It is important that your site looks interesting but it should also maintain a professional look. This will make your site look more credible for the site visitors and for you to have a better business out of your website. Of course your site will only work if the right codes are used so you should not also neglect that aspect of web design. With the proper codes and the right design, you will be able to catch more attention and more profit for your business.

The use of pictures can grab lots of attention. Aside from it is more interesting, you can also compress more thoughts and ideas into your site through the use of pictures. Also, it can make your site look better as it can be pleasing to the browser's eyes. It can make people want to come back to your site. Hence, if you are looking for a boost in your site, you can start with picking the right kind of pictures that are in line with the goals of your website.

Now that you know the importance of having the right web design for your site, you should not forget that the content is as important as the design. In fact, you can lose website followers if one is not right. Some searchers will no longer go back to your site if he does not see anything that he can use in it. Even if the design is outstanding, most searchers will always look for quality content. When you are able to balance these web design needs, you can definitely improve your website for your audience that you are trying to reach out for.

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Wednesday, May 12, 2010

A Visitor is Knocking at Your Site

When a visitor finds your site, imagine it's like your best friend knocking at the front door. You want them to come in, make themselves at home and stick around awhile. Great web site design can make that happen. Whether you're selling a product or service, or simply providing information, you want them to feel they've come to the right place.

Imagine you're Judy, an online shopper

Imagine you're Judy, an avid shopper, and you're on the hunt for a flat screen TV, possibly 3-D. You start your search on Google by typing "flat screen TV", and your search returns over 29 million results. What are the odds Judy will look beyond the first ten results? Pretty slim! What if she typed in "3D flat screen TV?" Hey, we're down to 8 million results. Maybe she'll check out the first two pages of results.

Local relevance is important

What if Judy didn't want her new flat screen TV shipped from who knows where, and wanted to find one locally? What if she lives in Phoenix, AZ and typed in, "3D flat screen TV Phoenix AZ?" Not only will her search query be reduced to 32,000 results, the odds increase dramatically that she'll search through more results to find the TV that appeals to her. She's now very focused.What if you were selling 3D flat screen TV's in Phoenix? Would Judy find your site? Possibly, but not necessarily. Is the verbage, 3D flat screen TV Phoenix AZ, anywhere on your site? Is your site indexed by Google, Bing or Yahoo?

Is your site in a good Internet neighborhood?

Internet neighborhoods are very much like real life neighborhoods. Ask your friend where to find that TV and I guarantee you that they (probably) won't send you to a guy who is selling them out of the back of a truck. They're going to point you to a reputable store. As well, it's in the search engines best interests to point you to the most relevant websites. They have billions in advertising dollars resting on their recommendations.

What could land your website in a bad neighborhood?

Using blackhat SEO techniques jumps to the front of the line, followed very closely by allowing links back to spammers. If you're running a blog or forum, be sure to moderate the comments and weed out the ones linking to obvious spammers.

The Power of the Internet

The Internet has leveled the playing field for many small and medium sized businesses. It's not uncommon for many many more visitors to find you online than could ever find your brick & mortar location. Just as that sign on the front of your business and the landscaping surrounding your location is meant to draw walk-in prospects, your website is very much the online face of your business or organization. Your goal should be to make the best possible impression with each and every visitor. Following some very simple basics will help tremendously.

Visual Guidelines

It's best to select a color theme that supports your site's goals without overwhelming your visitors. Simple and pleasing versus busy and cluttered.

Navigational Guidelines

Make it easy to get from Point Query to Point Buy. Include FAQ's to answer questions.

Add a Touch of Personality

Your site needs to be different from the sites your visitors just left. Add a touch of personality, but retain consistency across the entire site. Emphasize what makes your business unique.

Graphics and Text

The right mix of graphics and text is important. Long unbroken blocks of text will send visitors fleeing for the exits. Too many graphics may impair the search engines ability to index your site. You need a balance of graphics and text to make your site visually compelling.

Attention to Detail

Broken links give the impression that your business is less than professional. If your site is not in good working order, the perception is frequently that neither is your business. What you're looking for is a quality experience with your visitors.

Steve is an Inside Sales Manager at Hostirian in Saint Louis, MO. He began his writing career many moons ago while stationed in Pensacola, Florida, writing for the Cory Log. Today, Steve writes about business, marketing, search engine optimization, and web design & hosting. You can read or RSS his articles from http://www.WDTalk.com.