On Breakfast TV, body language expert Suzanne Masefield talked about what US presidential hopefuls were revealing about their true natures and intent.

It was very interesting, and it prompted a quick check of The Body Language Company website, which then inspired this post.

Website's have 'body language'?

Just like your body language, your website reveals your philosophy and approach to your business in ways you may not realise.

Even if visitors find what they want easily they will be affected by these visual cues, which in turn will affect what they think of your business.

The Body Language Company's website for example, feels quite cool due to the predominantly white, blue and grey colour scheme. There are red headlines and a random collection of images and buttons scattered down the page. At the top of the page, the images are of mixed style and quality.

Overall I felt a certain lack of cohesion, with a lack of attention to small details around quality and consistency. Does this reflect the professionalism of the business or quality of their services? Quite possibly not, and when speaking on TV, Suzanne came across as knowledgeable, warm and friendly.

While body language reveals an individual's 'true' nature, a business website may not always reflect the actual experience a customer will have. But it will communicate something about the business. As a business owner, that 'something' might not be what you want it to be!

Website 'body language' mistakes and what they say about your business

• Out of date content = this business isn't committed so they won't be committed to their customers
• Disorganised layout or message = a disorganised business who will miss commitments
• Ugly design = this is very subjective, but ugly can imply lack of competence when communicating or a lack of sophistication.
• A focus on pretty pictures without substance = will talk the talk but won't deliver the goods
• Very little content = not customer focused
• Poor quality images = poor quality products or services
• Mixture of variable styles and visuals = a confused business lacking a single vision and purpose
• Cheap design = cheap, low value products and services
• No website at all = not customer focused, hard to deal with

What is your website body language saying?

And is it what you want?

Image by Steve Ford courtesy of stock.xchng