Cheaper and better computers, combined with improved "streaming" software technology, will drive this multimedia trend. As computers and web servers on either end of information exchange get faster at encoding and decoding data, need for broadband access lessens.

** Sold to Highest Bidder

Expect auction sites to see all-time highs in sales and revenues this year. With a sluggish economy, people look to save and make money any way they can, and buying through eBay makes it easier than ever.

** Do you Yahoo?

Search giant Yahoo will rebound this year from a couple of poor business decisions. Expect them to regain top spot as world's number one search portal by end of 2003.

** "Micro-Businesses" Will Dominate

Using "guerrilla marketing" tactics, small businesses will spread like wildfire online. These businesses won't bother with startup capital, or IPO's; they'll simply reach profitability within 30 days or close up shop.

Also, expect to see "Big" business start adapting these techniques by creating special units within larger corporations that reward entrepreneurial online spirit.

So take challenge!

Cut out this article, put it on your bulletin board, and 12 months from now we can all see if my psychic abilities rate with most popular 900 numbers or whether flipping a coin would have achieved same or better results. :-)

Solve problems. Let visitors know what problems your product or service solves. Don't be afraid to describe problems. Once you do that, show visitors what their life will be like after they buy your product. Tell them how your customers use your product and benefit from it -- visitors will identify with real life examples.

Are there testimonials on your web site? Nothing enforces your credibility more than other customers' experiences. Whenever you get complimentary letters or emails from satisfied customers, ask their permission to reprint them. Including their first and last names along with their companies and cities where they live enhances credibility.

Focus your copy. It is said that people don't read on net. Don't take this to mean that your copy can be sloppy and generic. If in doubt, hire someone else to write it for you. Be specific with details. It is also said "The more you tell, more you sell." Provide prospects with lots of information on a well-written site.

Finally, capture your visitors' email addresses. In exchange for their email addresses, offer something fr*e, such as an ezine, updates on special offers or fr*e information. (You can automate this by setting up an autoresponder.) When you obtain their permission to contact you, you are able to follow up with them later and build a relationship. Over time, they will get to know and trust you and you will have a better chance of making a sale.

When you evaluate your website copy, you may find any number of things that can hinder your sales, but mostly it will be your copy. Make these simple improvements to your words and you offer and you will sell more.

=========================================================== "Words that Work" Copywriting that gets results. Brochures, web site copy, sales letters, ads, flyers, and more. Visit Write to the Point Communications today to get your free consultation. http://www.write2thepointcom.com

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