4) Subscribe to Our Ezine: You'll also want to include a chance to subscribe to your ezine on this page. It's very important to your marketing efforts that you start collecting a list of opt in subscribers who are giving you permission to contact them at a future date.

Most people will not buy from your site on first visit so you'll want to get those email addresses for possibility of a future sale.Mail lists can be maintained with stand-alone software or your web host may provide this service for you, you'll need to ask. The easiest way to implement one is to use one of free list services like Yahoo eGroups or Topica - http://www.yahoogroups.com or http://www.topica.com Make sure you include an easy sign up form somewhere on your site - topright hand corner will get you best attention.

5) Search Function: If your site is rather large you may want to include a search function. This gives people opportunity to find just what they're looking for quickly. Search can be implemented with a CGI script. You'll also find plenty of free search functions available online at third party sites like http://www.Atomz.com.

6) What not to Include: Things like long Flash intros, tons of pop up boxes and music, all which can serve to annoy your guests - causing them to reach for exit button. If you feel need to use a pop up box (which have proven to be effective for actions like reminding visitors to subscribe to a newsletter), use type that only pops up upon exit. It's less obtrusive and doesn't hamper web surfer when he or she first enters your site.

So how many of these strategies have you implemented on your home page? Remember, some people will never make it past entrance to your site, but by incorporating above essential elements into your page you'll increase chances of a happier surfing experience for your guest and a more effective website for you.

Having excessive links in your navigational menu also confuse visitors. If your average visitor spends just 15 minutes at your site, you want them to go to your most important pages. Avoid fanciful navigational menus that load too slowly.

Regularly monitor and update hyperlinks on your website. Dead or outdated links reflect poorly on your business.

4. Order Form

Place your ordering link at a prominent position. Let your visitors find your order form easily. Test form thoroughly for bugs. Don't lose sales because your order form doesn't work or hang halfway through transaction!

Make sure that your prices, shipping and handling costs, delivery schedule, return policy and guarantees are clearly displayed or linked.

Ask only for necessary information to complete sale transaction. Avoid unnecessary fields. Your customers want to complete their transaction quickly.

5. Seal Programs

Seal Programs such as Better Business Bureau Online (BBBOnline) Reliability Seal at http://www.bbbonline.org can enhance your business image.

Displaying these seals on your website assure potential customers that your business is credible and legitimate. This is especially useful for new startups or small businesses.