No matter what you're selling, there are some fundamental sales practices that are universal, whether the medium is print, broadcast, face-to-face sales or a web site. The basic techniques of making and closing a sale have been developed and refined for more than a hundred years, so why try to re-invent them? Here are some tips from top salesman Jack Thompson, who has some 40 years of experience in selling everything from shoes to insurance to stereos to cemetery plots. Currently, he is the president and founder of Tax Remedy Group in Fountain Valley, California. (Oh, and did I mention, he is also by brother?)

1. Make it clear what you are selling. Don't insult customers by making a guessing game out of your business, otherwise they won't be your customers for long.
2. Focus your efforts. The tone of your sales pitch should concentrate on why someone should choose your product or service.
3. Have a clear list of everything you do. Make a clear, concise list of all the features, services and products offered by your company.
4. Features have benefits - explain them. Benefits are what every customer is seeking and what separates you from your competition. They are also vital to making a decision to buy.
5. Always put your best foot forward.
6. Tell customers why your are the best. Motivate potential buyers with an easy-to-follow sensible approach to doing business with you.
7. Don't hide. Make contacting you and gathering information from prospective customers as simple as possible.
8. Use graphics intelligently. Don't use image overkill to get attention. Instead, get to the point while creating an interest in what you have to offer.
9. Use substance over fluff. It will win out every time.
10. Consult a sales professional. If you don't have the expertise to implement the necessary on- or offline sales tools, a professional can save you endless time and lots of money. Just remember that a web site designer is not a sales professional.

Don't keep these tips to yourself. Pass them onto your customers. They'll think you're swell. There are hundreds of thousands of competing web sites on the Internet. Do they want theirs to create sales or be just a fancy, do-nothing cyber show? By helping them succeed, you'll ensure the longevity of your own business.

(Source: Web Hosting Magazine)