I have a web site called Catering To Your Needs. The url address is written as cateringtoyourneeds.com. I've had it about a year now. I built it myself and searched out real quality products with what I think are Very Competitive prices. My products are guaranteed and some even come with a 25 year to lifetime guaranty. I've paid marketing fees, signed up with all the major search enjines and tried to make my site as professional as it can be. I ship my merchandise quickly and also respond quickly to any questions. I've seen many fakes out there, but I am the REAL DEAL. My problem is I'm not getting orders. My site isn't even paying for itself. I see that up to 1500 people a month are looking at my site but only about 1% or less are buying anything. I feel I've invested too much in it to quit, but I can't keep paying all my fees and not make any money. Can you PLEASE look at it for me and offer some suggestions on what I'm doing wrong or how to mke it more applealing?
2006-07-24 07:53:04 · 9 answers · asked by divaxl 2 in Home & Garden ➔ Decorating & Remodeling
I have not seen your site but i recently opened a furniture store and ran into the same problem. The key for me was to realize that people can buy products anywhere whenever they want. as a retailer what you must do is create a reason to buy and an urgency. Sales always work great for that, presented correctly they can make alot of money. on the web , advertising weekly specials or limited time items create the need to buy now or miss out. I hope this helps.
2006-07-24 18:13:42 · answer #1 · answered by mattman_19782002 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I looked at the website and it's pretty good. I felt it looked professional. I think the real issue is that cookware and the other stuff you offer is the kind of thing people buy in person.... for one thing, there is plenty of cookware available all over, so no real reason to shop online for it. Secondly, I'm sure the shipping cost for large items like that is quite high. The average person would just think "oh I'll run out to Walmart or Sears or whatever and see what they've got".
I'm sorry that's not very optimistic but that's what I think. Maybe you should re-direct the focus of your business elsewhere if possible.
The other thing, when you search on google or MSN.com for "pots and pans", "cookware", etc, where is your website on the list of hits? If it's number 150, you are wasting your money - people will probably check out the ones on the first page, maybe second page - that's about it.
2006-07-24 08:23:38 · answer #2 · answered by ontario ashley 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Maybe it is just me, but I know I like to see mor than just the price next to a purchase I am considering online. If I don't feel a connection with the product to a need in my life, I will often just go to another site.
Also.. add something free like recipes you make using the cookware, or describe occasions you've given some of the products as a gift and the wonderful reactions of the recipients. Give it all some kind of "practical yet elegant living" theme.
What do you think?
2006-07-24 11:38:15 · answer #3 · answered by jennifae 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
MY EYES!! MY EYES!!!
I feel like Lisa Kudrow suffering from hysterical blindness on "Friends". I know that doesn't seem very nice, but I do want to help, and this is a major problem.
Honestly, I didn't spend a lot of time on your site after my first impression, and I suspect I might not be the only one. Eye candy is what you need. Go to a pro that has a solid track record of getting hits that convert to sales, even if they charge a bit more for their services. In cyberspace, no one gets to meet you and find out what a wonderful person you are, It's all visual, and lots & lots of people are competing for the same dollar. You have very few seconds to hook your client and get them to hang out at your site.
I support what you are doing, asking the tough questions and taking what is flung your way. I say, because of that attitude, you will definately succeed!!
2006-07-24 08:34:44 · answer #4 · answered by Elwood Blues 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is very professional and nice looking. I think cookware is just one of those things that people like to buy in person. That is why Ebay will never dominate the car sale market... some people have to feel and touch it to be able to buy it. You need to get your site in front of 10,000 plus people per month to have a chance. I know advertising costs money however it is the only way...
2006-07-24 08:00:04 · answer #5 · answered by Mike Hunt 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Nothing wrong with your design , I have seen a hell of lot worse, and yours is easy to navigate.
My gut feeling is, its the wrong product to sell online- and you are a little bit pricey.
Everyone sell pots and pans and knifes- everyone. People expect to find bargains Online, you save money not having a Store to Rent and maintain, I want to see that reflected in the price. Also get hip to the way of Online selling, hint- Low price, high Shipping.
2006-07-24 08:27:43 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
in a nutshell? it doesn't look professional.
you should consider a redesign from a professional web designer. it will probably make all the difference in the world.
good luck
2006-07-24 07:59:52 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I dont like the font. It is difficult to read quickly. You should change it to something more simple and easy to read such as arial or times new roman or verdana.
2006-07-24 07:59:57 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
it doesn't look professional
nice but not professional
and find a "come on" to attract people
2006-07-24 11:46:13 · answer #9 · answered by Joe L 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋