by Carol on December 30, 2009
Many small businesses still don’t have a website, and those that do are not utilizing them as effectively as they should. Some just don’t see the value in a website that goes beyond a simple display of the business’s contact details. Some just think having an online presence is better than nothing at all. This way of thinking is all too common among small business owners. Sure, contact information is essential, but so isn’t information about the business and its history? And what about client testimonials? These all build credibility in the minds of consumers.
Does your website give a good first impression or does it scare potential customers away? I often get asked, “Do I really need a professional website even if I’m a smaller company?” to which I always respond, “YES, if you are a business professional, you need to look like one. Period.” I believe you should make sure your website gives off a great first impression or the potential client may just hit the back button and move on to your competitor’s site.
A professionally designed website with valuable content will help your customers take your business seriously. It’s important to remember that most potential customers and clients are unaware of your small business status until they take a look at your online presence. You must have a professional-looking site if you want to be taken seriously. If your website is of bad quality, whose to say your product or services are not of bad quality too? Since many consumers now search for information online prior to making a purchase, your site may be the first chance you have at making a good impression on a potential buyer. Don’t let that chance pass you by …
by admin on December 1, 2009
This font has been criticized by designers, computer users, and even comics fans for years. In the past month, I have had 3 clients use this font for business documents. Since it has come up a few times in the recent weeks, I decided to have a design discussion recently with one of these clients, I was asked, “So… Why do you not like Comic Sans?” Here is the lowdown of why I as a designer do not like to use this font.
This font was designed for use in informal documents, which of course includes comics. It’s just too playful and cartoony for professional use. When used in a business document, it ends up looking cheap and unprofessional.
Another reason, it’s very overused – especially in PowerPoint presentations. It’s even used on websites now. One of the reasons it is overused is because it’s shipped with every PC. Comic Sans was released in the early 90’s by Microsoft and has been included with every operating system since the introduction of Windows 95.
I don’t think Comic Sans is a bad typeface, really. It is very popular with children and students as well as elementary teachers, and I can live with that. Also, I know some (bad) designers who have used it, and of course non-designers all around the globe have used it. I don’t blame them; people are unable to make good design decisions because they have had no typographic schooling. If your design piece is comics or other humorous material then we can talk, if not, please do me a favor and put the font aside.
by Carol Ensminger on September 10, 2009
It may be the era of digital technology, but I still consider one of the most important ways to keep your name in front of current and potential customers is the traditional business card. Lately I have been spending a lot of time deeply immersed in the high-tech world of virtual networking, but feel it’s important not to overlook some of the “old school” networking tools. Your business card is still one of the most powerful marketing tools you can have. [click to continue…]
by Carol Ensminger on September 3, 2009
On a recent getaway, my husband and I visited a small town in Northern Arizona. We enjoyed our weekend strolling through quaint shops and mixing with the locals. It reminded me so much of my years spent growing up in a small town. There I managed my first store and later started my own business. There is a lot to be said about doing business in a small town and I have learned many valuable lessons along the way. Even today I am connected to the mentality ingrained during those years and the way I do business today is a reflection of my time spent in a small town.
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