When launched my first business website, DW Office Solutions, I struggled with the decision of whether to put ads on it or not.  On one hand, Adsense and other advertising programs can mean a few extra cents while you’re waiting for your online business to take off.  However, I often wonder how putting ads on your business’ website might effect your business’ image and eventual success.

I have read many opinions supporting both sides of this issue.  I think it really has to be a decision based on your personal views and, at times, gut feeling.

I’ve always taken an approach of looking at my site the same way I look at other sites as a viewer and potential customer.  I’m not saying that I will never buy something from a site with Adsense, and I have no problem whatsoever with ads on content sites.  But in my mind, it does take away a bit of the professional image of a service company to see those little Google boxes plastered about.  Obviously, there are ways to include the ads without being blatantly displayed, but my gut feeling always leads me to question business’ who prominently display such ads on the same pages where they’re describing why I should buy from them or why I should hire them.

These are solely my opinions, based only on my “gut feelings” and not research but I can’t help wondering how successful a company is at their specialty if they feel the need to post ads?

Again, I think it’s really something that each business and designer need to discuss and decide for themselves!

Do you use Adsense or it’s alternatives on your business site?

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