Archive for February, 2012

It’s back! This week’s Small Business Roundup includes long content pages, website RFP redesign, and underbidding projects.

Don’t Be Afraid of Content and Long Web Pages – This is an interesting topic. Not too long ago it was standard to tell website owners that their content couldn’t be “below the fold” or they’d lose visitors. All you have to do is think about your own browsing habits. Do you scroll? Yes, everyone scrolls. The real issue is having valuable content. If you have excellent content that is easy to read, no one is going to mind scrolling to soak it all in. Just remember to keep it relevant and to the point.

Promote Your Business Without Being Pushy – This is a really simple concept but we tend to make it really hard. It’s all about the brand message and strategy. If you have that down, the rest is easy.

Redesigning the Site Redesign RFP: Eight Do’s and Don’ts – This is an excellent article if you are looking to do work on your website. You have to sign up for their site to read the whole thing but there is some really good information in here. It discusses mobile integration, content sharing, SEO, community features, and personalization. The tips for what not to ask for are even better.

Seven Ways to Whip Your Website into Shape – These tips are perfect. I think it would be a good idea to print these out and go through them once or twice a year, particularly: simplify, fix the problems, and refresh the about page. The final tip may be the best of all, though.

What to Do When You Underbid on a Project – This is a really hard one for me. I usually end up eating the cost because I think it’s my fault if I underbid. But the reality is you are doing work for the client and they should pay for it. To keep your lights on and because they need to know how much your services cost. The author suggests eating the cost might help land a long-term relationship with the client but then you’ve started the relationship off by giving them more than they paid for – and they may expect that in the future. You have to set expectations.

Tech news is up next. Have a great weekend!