I've been advised to "hang it up" What do you thin

[dvevans]

Yep, I have been advised by a pretty savy "web site" pro to lay it down.
"The site is too diversified"....... and I guess it is.

When I started, I didn't really know what a "niche" was! All this time I thought I had one. But the consulation revealed that the Search Engines probably don't know where to put me. And that is really bad.

Any ideas of how I can salvage this project? The pro says "not really". I have just renewed with SBI, so I have a year to play!

Any helpful comments welcome!
Debra

[BradleyD.Haslam]

You know,
I've heard this before.
Don't get discouraged.

When a person covers too many areas,
it usually just means the niche is too broad.
BUT, if you have been effectively covering a broad niche,
then you have become a good content provider.
And that's really what the s.e.'s want.
"Simplify"

Put a link to your site up 4 us.
Lets have a look, and see.

K?

Brad.

[dvevans]

You know I can't believe I didn't do that! I guess I'm just flustered!

Thanks for your reply, my site is:

http://www.a-womans-style.com

Thanks again for your reply.

Debra

[BradleyD.Haslam]

Hi Debra,

Sorry it took so long to write again.
I live in a nuthouse sometimes.
(I'm the king nut... I'll admit it. LOL)

I had 3 people join me in looking at your site,
and we agree on a couple of things.
(And no, we don't agree that you should throw in the towel )

Your theme of "women over 40" is great.
It's a good niche, I wouldn't change that.
It's all layout, nothing more.

I (we) think your home page is way too busy.
I would only include the first paragraph.
Yup, sorry. But I would trash the rest.
And then summarize your menu.
And get rid of the left hand menu all together.

I think the way you have your other pages setup
with the affiliate links anchored mid paragraph is good.
How about linking to those pages in
the same manner from your home page?
With anchor text links to other areas of your site from
SHORT paragraph descriptions.

You might include an "about me" link under the pic
to include the hairdresser side of yourself.
It's a good pitch, but I'd reword it a bit as well.
But DO link to a personal introduction. It’s a good thing.

Your opt-in box should be proudly placed on ALL of your pages.
But rewrite it completely.
Include "benefit, benefit, benefit",
and prompt action!
Maybe with a free report?

Also, I do agree that the field is broad.
You NEED to promote the pages separately,
as themes of their own.
AND maybe your home page as an 'over 40 knowledge base'.
... test test test!
Testing is the ONLY real way to get a definitive answer.

Write/submit articles and link to your pages in them.
You can obviously create some good content.
I think articles is a good strategy for attracting your target crowd.
But again... test.

Keep your picture, but test response with it moved to the left.
Keep the design for now, and think about testing it too, later on.

I really think it's about the navigation
being overpowered by the intro page.
Focus on the mind set of your visitor,
and loose as many distractions as you can.
Then, create a longer description of each area,
and link to that page inside of your mini article.

Think benefit!
"Menopause"? nope, don't want to deal with that!
"Surviving menopause comfortably and gracefully"
Hey, I'm starting to worry about that at this age,
wonder what tips she has to offer!

See?

Keep us posted, K?
your doing great

Brad.

[dvevans]

Brad,

Thank you so much for your (and the other's) input. I have copied it off and am changing my site, step by step (as soon as I can get out of my salon for the day).

I do have a questions about the "about me" page, if you don't mind. Is it too personal, should I just stick with the professional part? Is that what you meant by rewording it?

Thanks again for your input, it really gives me hope and direction.

Debra

[BradleyD.Haslam]

You know, I hate this part

When it comes to a "personal" page,
I always feel like I'm saying it's not good enough.
And that's not it at all.

So...just a note or 2, K?

It's ALL part of the ad.
You want the reader to be interested enough to read more, right?
So don't try to impress them with your qualifications.
Remove as many "I's" as possible.
Think "benefit to them".

I'd even make sure it's entertaining.
Include a specific story,
play with their heart!

If they leave feeling emotional,
they are going to be interested in whatever you have to say.
Write it like a story you find in reader's digest.
Involve the reader.

I'd even use
"the old saying, "Only her Hairdresser knows for sure!" is very true."
as the headline.

Interested to see what you come up with!!
Let us know!
Brad.