10-minute presentation
“As soon as you find the key to success, someone changes the lock.”
My topic is Internet Use – Consumer Expectations TODAY.
As a web developer and BUSINESSMAN, I’m not looking for just anybody who wants a web site or a better web site just because they think they need it. Sure I do hosting and design, but everybody’s brother-in-law’s cousin’s college kid does that. I’m looking for business people who want to be on top of how consumers use the web and how it affects their expectations of today’s businesses.
In front of you is an article I wrote earlier this year called “Buffalo Time Machine” that talks about how ever-changing technology – especially the web – can be predicted by simply paying attention.
One of the best ways to do this is by having teenagers. They use the web – and cell phones and music and games – in ways we could never anticipate. {discuss} The point is that THEY are your target audience – if not immediately, then in a few short years.
They play by different rules. What do they expect?
- Buying online
- Customer service by multiple channels (web site info, chat)
- Networking with other consumers
- Sending and receiving documents electronically, NOT fax or mail
So how do I fit in all this?
- Remedial assistance – use of email and a web site
- CRM communications
- Customer empowerment
- Business networking following social networking models
So what should you look for?
- Business people who don’t know where to go next, but know they should be going SOMEWHERE
- People who are starting to “get it”
What SHOULDN’T you look for?
- People who dwell on “not getting this computer stuff”
- People who have a web site or hosting who want to save money – it’s NOT a commodity in my area of the market
What should you say to prospects?
- The web developer I know leads people “by the hand” and takes businesses and organizations “to the next level”
- They are always interested in meeting people from various fields and industries and would be willing to sit down with you to see how he could help
SUMMARY
There is no reason to be left behind. If you can’t keep up on business trends, surround yourself by people who do. Get the new keys BEFORE someone changes the lock.
And when it comes to Internet-related aspects of the marketplace, business people don’t need just any web designer or host.
They need me.