Want to know how to generate a Web Site that sells, sells, sells? Well, the best way to know how to do something is to know how NOT to do that same thing. Web site development is no different.

There are certain things that you should never do or make sure that you programmer does not do. They are relatively simply but important rules that can be the cornerstone of your Internet strategy.

When I review web sites, either as an editor for various sites, or in cruising the Internet to find information, I come across the same things over and over again. These things effectively kill the usefulness of the site.

1. Load your site with a groovy Flash front page!
Did you know that most Users are not using the latest browser program? That's right. In fact, the average user is still working with a version that is at least 1.5 releases old. Did you also know that the average user doesn't know, or isn't able to figure out how, to upgrade their version they simply have to visit the homepage of the Browser?

Well, that is the reality of web life. When you make that decision to use Flash or any technology that requires a plug in, that decision may come to negatively effect your traffic flow. I've yet to hear of any site NOT being visited because they did not use Flash! If you insist on Flash then give your visitors the option to by-pass it.

2. Load your site with plenty of graphics!
Most Users are using a 56K connection or less. Guess what that does to load times! Have you ever gone to a site that doesn't load quickly and then left because of that? Well, expect the exact thing from your Users.

If you intend to use graphics, use ones that have been minimized for size and load speed. Also, use them sparingly. This is by far the most effective way to ensure that they are noticed anyway.

3. Market your site when you have time!
Your Web Site is the most affordable way to advertise your services. By spending little time in promoting your site either through your own efforts or through those of a pay service, you are robbing yourself of that cost savings.

Too often, business owners see a Web Site as a cure in itself. I'm hear to tell it isn't! Traffic does not just happen …it comes from time, hard work and commitment: just like all of your marketing. If you aren't prepared to do it yourself, hire someone get it done. The results will more than justify the costs. Don't wait till you have the time: MAKE the time!

4. Don't bother with content!
Read my lips… CONTENT IS KING! Relying only on a few gadgets and links and a homepage will eventually do two things: slow the development of your site and dampen your enthusiasm for Internet-based solutions. Neither of these is good.

Content helps your site in 3 main ways. First, it gets Users to your site because search engines love content and love sites that have it. Articles, information, tools and services and loaded with the terms you need to be found by. Search engines pick these up and will rank you higher because of it.

Second, it gets Users to stay on your site longer. Studies show that the longer someone spends on a site the more likely they are to achieve what is called "Buy Through." They will either click on advertisers or purchase services. In the case of craft professionals this translates to links to other suppliers, articles, craft patterns and anything else you need to sell.

Third, it gets Users back to your site. Return visitors are far more likely to use services on those sites. If your content is rich, then your pockets will be too!

An easy example of this is free articles. Did you know that there are a number of sites that will let you use their articles for free? That's right. Did you also know that articles relating to your industry are absolutely adored by Users and search engines? That's right to. For example, ThinkRelo.com lets you add their targeted real estate articles to your own site at no charge.

5. Hire a programmer who's never done real estate sites!
Here's a great way to kill your site! Find yourself a programmer who has never done a craft related web site and have him do yours.

When you hire a programmer or design company that does not know the arts and craft industry you are getting exactly what you paid for. Your designer must understand the way the industry works, how sales are created, how purchases are made and more. If you have to teach your programmer you are wasting your time. There are a number of good service providers who specialize in your type of needs. Go find them! It won't cost you more since you won't have to redo things or spend your time teaching.

Ron Thibeault is a lawyer with LeClair Thibeault and contributing Editor to St. Nick Studios. His extensive experience in business startups including ThinkRelo.com and commercial law gives him valuable insight into the needs of small business owners.