We really dont think about it much, but when we walk into a brick-and-mortar store, we judge the level of professionalism and credibility very quickly. It only takes a few moments, but our judgment most often determines if we are going to shop there or go some place else.

When viewers come to your website, they judge your level of professionalism and credibility very quickly, too. It only takes a few moments, but their judgment most often determines if they are going to buy from you or go to another website.

Do you present your website - your business - in a professional and credible way so your viewer becomes your customer?

Does your website look like a real business or a hobby? Is it professional in its design and navigation? Is it well organized? Is it clear to your viewers what you can do for them and why they should buy from you. Do you have quality products? Do you give them some extras and perks that they are used to when shopping? Do you have a Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions? If so, are they clear and readily available? Can they find your contact information easily?

Are you an established company or just another person on the internet? Have you incorporated or established yourself as a Limited Liability Company? Are you a member of any professional affiliations? Have you been recognized or certified by any reputable organizations?

These are just some basics, but if you answered no to any of these questions, you may be losing customers.

When we shop in a brick-and-mortar store, we do so for specific reasons. The store is clean, professional and has what we want for the price we want. The sales people are professional, courteous and attentive. We can easily find the products we want. They have specials that save us money. Their policies are clear. They are a reputable member of the community. And, so forth.

Shouldnt your online store have these qualities, too? Put yourself in your viewers shoesor, rather, behind their keyboards. Make a judgment from the viewers point of view. If you are getting viewers, but not customers, you may want to rethink some of the points I have discussed here. And then, make the necessary changes.