I think this is probably the most important start for a business.

I had an email a few days ago from someone who had just passed his proofreading exams, asking me how I started my business. It was the first time I had had an email like this, so I replied saying places that have helped me: Social Media, Memberships, 3rd Party websites and my own website.

This got me thinking – which of these is the most important? which has generated most business?

I can say without a doubt that this is my website, so I have compiled a short checklist of points that may help you:

1. For the basic page structure use a web designer. This will be a cost, but they know their stuff. And a good website will pay dividends.
2. When writing the pages use short ‘punchy’ sentences. This can get the customer interested – it’s better to use a direct sentence of a few words, rather than a long rambling sentence of a very varied set of words that alludes to and meanders around the subject and sends you to sleep before you get to the end.
3. Don’t use sesquipedalian language (long words)- if I read a website I don’t want to use a dictionary to find out what it means.
4. Use Pictures – relevant certificates, successful projects etc.
5. If you do a job, ask for a recommendation and put it on your website. If the job was for a business, ask them if you can add a link to their website.
6. Add regular, relevant blogs.
7. When writing remember friendliness and humility.

I hope these points will be of help.