So What Exactly Do You Do Anyway?

That’s the question on everyone’s mind when they land on your site for the first time. Obviously, your header, tagline, and front page should give them a pretty good idea about you and the services you offer, but your services page is where you want to go into much more detail.

Service Page Slipups to Avoid
While it’s obvious you need a services page on your site, what’s not so obvious are the blunders you can make that might end up costing you business.

The Kitchen Sink Page:   This is a page that lists every single thing you can do, want to do, thought about doing, and have been asked to do. Simply put, while a big list of services might seem like a great idea, it can be confusing for potential clients. They won’t know what you’re really good at, or if you’re a good fit for them.

Instead, list your core strengths, include some explanation about each, and if you feel you need to expand, add a line such as “If you need other services not listed here, please contact me for a quote.”

There’s one exception to a pared down services page, and that’s if you’re operating business that truly does offer – either through subcontracting or by partnering with others – a multitude of services. If that’s the case, consider breaking up your services page into categories, such as writing, technical support, graphic design, social media management, and transcription. That will give your visitors all the information they need without looking like a laundry list of jobs.

Lacking Detail:   If your services page includes packages, it’s important to spell out exactly what is included in each. Don’t say “a) Member installation and configuration” without listing everything that is included in that package, otherwise you’ll wind up with “project creep” where clients ask for more and more time for things you never intended to provide with that package. Be very specific when promoting packages, and add a line such as “Any services not listed here will incur additional charges.”

The Sticky Question of Prices
Should you or should you not include your prices on your services page (or anywhere else)? Ask a dozen service providers and you’ll likely find they’re split right down the middle on what’s the correct choice. Ultimately, it’s up to you, but be aware that if you choose not to include prices, you may find that potential clients won’t contact you to request a quote.
 
On the other hand, if you do include your prices, you may feel you’re “scaring off” future customers.

Here’s the thing: Good customers know the value of a great virtual service provider. Your hourly or project rate will not frighten away a real customer, but they may in fact deter the “tire kickers” from wasting your time.

If you’re not comfortable naming a set price, or don’t want to be locked into a rate just because it’s stated on your site, you can simply state, “Prices start at $XX per hour. Contact me for a custom quote.” That way potential clients will know what to expect, and those who aren’t really serious won’t bother you.