“You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” Scholars have written pages and pages on this topic, but in the business world, we don’t need to know the nitty-gritty details. We just need to know that the phrase stands true. First impressions are critical to a company’s success.

The research varies, but the bottom line is that you have no more than seven seconds to wow your online customers. That isn’t much time! If you win your customers over before they land at your website, you’re ahead of the game. That’s why a good domain name is a key to a successful business.

While a thoughtful domain name will hook your customers, a well-designed website and client-focused business practices will reel them in. Remember: If you conduct part or all of your business online, you might never lay eyes on some of your customers!

If you’re feeling the pressure, rest assured that there are things you can do to foster a positive first impression and an exceptional customer experience. Here are four of our favorite suggestions:

1. Welcome your customers with open arms.

When you go to a brick-and-mortar business, it should be an inviting space. It should be clean and organized with friendly, helpful employees. These characteristics apply to online companies as well.

If your business has a website, your home page is your storefront. Your “storefront” needs to be a welcoming place, and you need to accomplish this without smiling employees on your side. Here are a few ways to do this:

• Claim a premium domain name.
• Make sure your site is user-friendly and well-organized so that customers don’t miss a single item or service.
• Work with a professional to make your site compatible across all devices.

2. Pay meticulous attention to your web design.

Many business owners design their websites as though they are a backup plan. This is a mistake! Even if you have a brick-and-mortar location, create your website as though it is the only place you do your thing. Pay attention to the details, such as color scheme, font, photos and graphics. If this isn’t your area of expertise, consider working hand-in-hand with a web design pro to help you put your company’s best foot forward.

3. Demonstrate trustworthiness.

A person’s intuition is a powerful thing. If a potential customer’s gut feeling says that your site is sketchy, they turn from a potential customer to someone else’s client. How can you demonstrate trustworthiness online? Here are some ideas:

• Invest in a premium domain name.
  Domain names that are short, memorable and easy to spell earn customers’ trust more than their complicated counterparts. Top-level domain extensions, such as .com and .org, are even better.
• Focus on stellar customer service.
  Above-and-beyond customer service keeps people coming back in all businesses, but this is especially true online. Whether on your website or social media, the people you hire to interact with your customers must consistently be friendly and helpful. Quick response to questions is another key that keeps clients coming back. Loyalty programs are an appreciated perk.
• Talk to your customers.
  Meet your customers where they are. Even if you get so many inquiries that you have a specific department that addresses them, take time every once in a while to connect with customers yourself. Trust us: They’ll appreciate your involvement.

4. Be just as personable on the internet as you would be face-to-face.

Many people think it’s harder to make a good impression on the internet. Sometimes our phrases and actions are almost robotic on the web. Don’t fall into this trap! Remember that real people are viewing your website and considering your company. Show them that there is a live person on the other end of their communication by using conversational responses that show that you care about their patronage.

Are you ready to take your company to the next level?

If the answer is “yes,” let’s start with your domain name! It’s only a few words, but it cultivates a client’s first impression before they land on your web page.

At DomainBroker.org, our dedicated team will help you wow your clients with a domain name that increases your credibility and describes the heart of your business. Want to learn more? Contact us today to acquire a domain name that takes your company to the next level!

Contact us at (800) 683-9010 or email us here for more information.