What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Always. I spend two hours daily reading and connecting with favorite bloggers, experts and practicing online tutorials to better my trade. The only way to provide the latest technology and best practices is to be fully aware.
How did you get started doing this type of work?
By accident. I was working in sales for an interactive agency and I saw gaps in the customer experience. I wanted to provide better service, better quality and at an affordable price. It wasn't till after I left that agency that I started getting calls from past customers asking for my advice and help. I love helping people and this industry offers so many ways to help companies grow and be prosperous. I love that!
What types of customers have you worked with?
Most of the companies I work with are in need of more targeted traffic, a new look and feel/ Brand development or are a new business and don't want to fail or waste money. Responsive website design/development, strategy and planning and search marketing ( local, targeted traffic growth and brand visibility) are the primary areas that we help customers.
Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?
I recently did a complete brand overhaul for a company in Houston, Texas called ethosIQ. This was a very targeted exercise of developing a new brand, mission statement, website/ portal, online search/social marketing campaign and content development. The client has seen tremendous growth in brand visibility online, website leads, market share and a strong presence in the marketplace as a thought leader.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
1. Be diligent in finding a company that is a fit for you! We all have different personalities and there are thousands of companies in every industry competing for customers. Your brand, your business, your reputation are personal.
Work with a company that "Gets you" . Not one that promises you the lowest price. That is not a company that cares about your Brand, Business our Reputation. Only your pocketbook and closing a sale.
2. As lots of questions! Providers that you talk to should be open to making you feel comfortable about the investment you are about to make. If they get frustrated, find another company. You will regret it later if you don't.
3. Be Prepared. Opening a new business or refreshing a business that is already in motion is exciting. The more prepared you are with what you want, the smoother the process will be. The #1 reason projects get delayed often comes from clients not being able to provide direction, content or feedback. If you know upfront that there are gaps that need to be filled, discuss it with the provider and put a roadmap in place so you can prepare for those gaps. Providers that love what they do are willing to help, so if you're overwhelmed in delivering direction, images, content, etc.., ask for advice or help!
What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?
The biggest challenge in a world of NOW, is that good work takes time. The old saying " You get what you pay for" is so true. Don't rush into your brand. Its your brand. Its how people will connect you and your reputation. Take the time to plan accordingly.
There are too many companies that offer "sites over night", as much as we all like things quickly, how you present your business to the world should be well thought out.
If it sounds to good to be true, it most likely is.
