So, in order to make sure that your web site doesn't express your business inappropriately, here are 10 things you can do:

1 - Lose those banner programs.

Using banner "exchange" programs is like saying to world, "I'm a newbie." When people start a web site, they seem to be automatically drawn to sites like LinkExchange or SmartAge. Perhaps it's promise of traffic for free that does it, but know truth: banner programs, for most part, are worthless when you're just starting out. Avoid temptation to plaster your pages with every banner program you can think of, because it's not going to help you.

2 - Keep your site clean and organized, not "busy!"

Do not, I repeat, do not make your site overwhelmingly "busy." Have you ever visited a site where there were thousands of animated pictures, fluorescent text and colors, crowded pictures, and huge text? Me too. And every time I visit one, I head for "back" button in my browser. Don't run off your visitors without letting them read what you've got to say, or they'll never buy!

3 - Avoid "clip-art" type graphics like plague.

They're totally unprofessional, and scream "don't buy!" Take time to learn how to make your own graphics using whatever program you can get your hands on. We recommend Adobe Photoshop - http://www.adobe.com - if you have money. If you're short on cash, visit Jasc Software to pick up a free demo of Paint Shop Pro - http://www.jasc.com - which is almost as good as Photoshop, but with a MUCH smaller price tag.

4 - Don't talk about yourself!

99% of people surfing internet are looking for information quickly. When you place large fancy pictures, midi music, and slow loading flash presentations this simply keeps your potential client waiting for information that they are looking for.

Most likely they will not wait but click off to another site.

Why should your prospect have to choose between an html or flash site? Why should he have to download software just to view your site? All this delays your customer from getting information he wants and from buying.

Keep pages simple, easy to read, fast loading and to point!

If you do not believe me check out Yahoo's or Microsoft's web design. It is very simple and these guys are billionaires.

2. Designing a site with no central theme or focus.

You cannot be everything to everybody. Have you ever seen those sites with dozens of different affiliate programs none of which relate to each other? They look like a flea market!

Stick to your topic. The more specific better. The internet contains so much information that you are better off being an expert in your niche than trying to appeal to everyone. If you have no focus value of your site is diluted and it will actually appeal to no one rather than everyone.

3. Not placing your phone number and contact info conspicuously on your site.

The internet is great but lets face it. Way more money is made off line than on line. Many people, including myself, want to make sure that there is a real person behind that website before parting with green.

If your clients can pick up a phone and contact a real person you have gained instant credibility. You also have distanced yourself from your competition.

I love seeing my competitor's fancy websites with no phone number! More business for me!

4. Using free web hosts.