Is it normal for your web based business to be open 2 1/2 months and no sales?

Question

I opened my website 2 1/2 months ago... I've started a google adwords campaign, site map, and a blog even have participated in link swaping. My site traffic has been increasing but no sales? is this normal? what should I be doing differently?

(i posted this questing about an hour ago and people have been responding to post my link up so I could get feedback... the link to my site is www.mycamplife.com if that helps)

Answer 1

A lot depends on exposure and what you are selling. Just because you get traffic doesn't mean sales.  I sell everything on the net, we are a car dealer, and the things we sell are generally automotive related. We don't get a lot of traffic general about 30 to 50 hits a day and that adds up to a lot of traffic but my sales are usually during a good month about 10 to 25% of what the traffic is. I am listed on several searches but if it's limited types of products, products that people don't really need or want then you need to change or upgrade.

Answer 2

I am actually in the same boat. I started my web based business about 2 1/2 months ago and I only had one sell. However I do sell outside the web. I have google adwords as well. It maybe normal if its not a product or service that people need all the time. Also the economy is bad so that may have alot to do with it, as well. But you have to be patient. Did you do flyers, telling friends and family or business cards? That may help. By the way my site is www.kaylastreat.com

Answer 3

Well, my initial impression is that there is no REASON to buy from your site.  You have no call to action or any differentiating claim on the site.  You need something that says "The best deals in camping", "The guaranteed cheapest brand name tents available" or similar.  That will tell people why you are different and why they should consider buying from you rather than a bigger, more established store like REI.  You also need a call to action like "Buy today and get free ground shipping!", "Browse our selection and buy your perfect tent today!" or similar.  

I would also remove all non-value added text from the home page.  Right now, it is too copy heavy and doesn't sell the consumer on your site or your products.  Emphasize brand names so consumers know they are not getting shoddy quality or generic tents.  

As far as advertising, I would look into doing at least a half page ad in a magazine that appeals to your target market.  It is my guess that pay per click ads are not the best for the camping market.  There are lots of regional magazines that would be good for this purpose and probably some national ones.

You don't seem to have a brand right now.  The site is nice but is not memorable.  Work on your logo so it really speaks to your ideal customer and is memorable to them.  

Those are my initial thoughts after a short review of the site. I hope they help.

Ken F.

CEO

http://www.aim-act.com

Answer 4

Try some targeted traffic http://www.trafficthatsells.com/