Handyman-Websites... Do you need one?

Handyman-websites are critical for many reasons, so the simple answer to that question is Yes! The Internet is the fastest way to grow your business period. The number one reason is that it sets you apart from your competition. People can check out your business in the privacy of their own home. It's a place for you to tell your story, talk about your services, upload pictures of your work from happy customers, publish a list of referrals and offer coupons. Just advertise your Web address on the side of your vehicle, on your door hangers, business cards, refrigerator magnets, and print advertising.

I read an article in the Wall Street Journal about business websites that said "just 36% of online small businesses - that is, businesses with fewer than 100 employees, where managers access the Web at least once a month - have Websites."

I'm willing to bet that if you gathered statistics on Handyman companies whose owners access the web once a month, and have a Website for their business, it would be more like 10%. Due to the competition between Web-hosting providers, and the falling price of Web storage it's never been cheaper to get a Website up and running. Since you don't need to set up an e-commerce store front it doesn't get any easier.

The great thing about what's available to you now is that you can get your Website up and running all by yourself with no technical background.

How to Start a Handyman-Website?

I'm going to assume, since you're reading this, you can get online. You'll also be able to open and edit a word (or Open Office) document. Now all you need is an all-in-one hosting company with tons of support, forums, and online training. One such site is Site Build It.

They have an awesome step-by-step process that takes all the guess work and fear out of setting up your handyman-websites and maximizing every possible way you can make money.

Save Yourself time and aggravation... Read more about me and learning what NOT to do when building your first handyman-website.

Your hosting service should also be able to register a URL for you. A good choice is Godaddy.com, just type the name you want into their search box and press enter.

Don't get sucked in by "Cheap Prices" you typically get what you pay for when it comes to hosting. If you're new to web page building, it's OK to pre-purchase a domain name but I'd seriously consider a quality host like Site Build It to make sure you website is a success.

If the domain name you want is taken, try another. Once you've decided on a name, scroll to the bottom of the page and click "Proceed to Checkout..."

Now you can decide on the hosting packages they offer. Do you homework on what services you want prior to getting here though. If you just want to register a domain name, ignore the additional product and services pitch and continue to the checkout page, enter your payment information and checkout. You are now the proud owner of a Web address! You can always go back later and purchase you hosting package.

• A "Welcome" home page.

• An "About" page that describes you and your business.

• A "Contact" page that lets the customer know where you are located and how to contact you.

• A "Services" page that describes the types of services you offer.

• A "DIY-Advice" page that describes how a customer can save money on your services. Such as preparing a "honey-do-list" to maximize your time fixing your problems once you arrive, by having the client purchase replacement items, such as a new garbage disposal, prior to your arrival. This saves you from having to do it which you will charge for.

• A "Satisfied Customers" page doesn't hurt. You can upload a gallery of pictures from completed projects and comments from customers.