Reply #22: Sorry to hear about this. This will get better. As far as web design tips: [View All]

[tranche]

Here are a few things off the top of my head:

1. Put your "website designs" on a CMS (Use WordPress)
- this allows clients the ability to update
- this provides clients with a blogging/news platform
- it provides plugins to extend functionality
- it's search engine optimization handling is perfect
2. Sell the importance of Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
- see: above -- if you need a "Best Practices" doc, PM me and I"ll send one to you
- start with local search (ie. St Pete Solar Installers)
3. Pitch eCommerce Installations
- if you know any php/mysql you can pitch Magento
- also, Amazon Webstore has new software out of Beta that's great

The thing about the three points above is that you're no longer just pitching the design, you're pitching functionality and search engine optimization (the only internet marketing method that really matters). You can charge more for this because you're providing a better product.

Another thing about the above, if you discount Magento and go with Amazon Webstore then you really don't need to know much PHP and/or MySQL at all. If you know those all the better, but if not, it's not an impediment to providing full service.

I hope this helps. The Web business is a tough one, but if you keep your eyes open you can get enough jobs to keep you going.