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[With A Twist] The Full Monty Syndrome

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What's lisa up to?

Almost 5'4" ;-)

Seriously though, efforts continue towards a spring release of EZezine V2.0. It's funny, we use web-based programs like they were created by magic or something. In reality, writing such software is a massive project. I am humbled, and am looking forward to the big release!

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RSS mania: while I haven't started a blog of my own yet, (seems like a bigger comm^ittment than marriage) I am enjoying the following blogs and news feeds:

After the release of EZezine V2.0, WAT will be available via RSS feeds for your reading pleasure.

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do feel free to pass on to others, but please keep all content intact.

Welcome...

To our new and returning readers! This issue of WAT focuses on what I call "The Full Monty Website Syndrome"

The Symptoms of the Syndrome...

There's really only one symptom: everything is all hanging out on your landing page.

You know, a link to every single page, article, fo^rm, and snippet of your site right there as soon as a visitor gets to your site. TMI- too much information.

The Negative Effects of the Syndrom...

Overwhelm Galore: Site visitors are hit with so many choices that they're likely just to flee.
Lost in Space: Visitors jump from one page to another and can't "grok" the big picture.
Loss of Credibility: If you are promoting a product or service that is touted as making life easier in any way, you're certain to lo^se credibility from the get go.
You Have No Control: You are at the mercy of your visitors' logic, or lack therein.
No Mystery: It's often advised when courting, to keep some mystery; not to reveal all of yourself to the gal/guy you are courting on the first date.
Dilution/Distraction: Too much info can dilute and even distract from your most potent offerings.

The Antidote...

As a website owner, think of yourself as a shop-keeper. Design your "shop" (site) in such a way that you decide what path visitors will take through your aisles. Don't fall prey to the "Full Monty Syndrome." Only reveal doorways to the most important actions that you want your visitors to take. From there, you can always guide them to your other site offerings.

Exercise:

What are the 3-5 most important actions for your site visitors to take? Remove everything off of your landing page that does not directly lead them there.

What are the 3-5 things that are most important for you to communicate to your site visitors? Remove everything off of your landing page that does not directly communicate this.

Think of it: you're not removing anything from your site. You are creating guided pathways for your visitors to get to the information. Try it, you may be surprised at the impact that these simple changes make to the stickiness and effectiveness of your site.

Til next time, Be Well and Market Twisted, and keep the mystery!,
lisa
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