Navigating the Information Deluge: A Guide to Internet Overwhelm

Quick and Efficient Information Retrieval

When it comes to locating information on the web or in your email, here are some strategies:

• Effective Web Search Techniques: Instead of hopping from one search engine to another, consider using a multi-search engine like Dogpile or Metacrawler. These platforms can expedite your search process. Additionally, familiarize yourself with Boolean search terms, which can yield more relevant results. A brief tutorial can be found on NewsBank.
• Leverage Your Email Program: Use your email program as a powerful archive by saving every email message you send. For instance, Eudora allows you to create a mailbox called 'outgoing archive' where you can store old outgoing messages. This can be a handy tool for recalling past conversations, retrieving old passwords, or revisiting business deals.

Creating a User-Friendly Website

To make your website a sanctuary for overwhelmed web surfers, consider the following:

• Clear Communication: As soon as visitors land on your site, tell them why they should stay. If your URL doesn't describe your site content, consider acquiring domains that do and redirect them to your main site. A tool like BizWeb2000 can help you find suitable domain names.
• Quick Navigation: Guide your visitors to the most popular areas of your site without delay. You have less than 20 seconds to make an impression, so ensure they find something of value within that timeframe.
• Email Collection: Ask for visitors' email addresses as soon as they arrive. This allows you to stay in touch and grow your business.
• Brevity: Keep your content concise. Paragraphs longer than 60 words can be overwhelming, especially on your main page. Use bulleted lists for easier reading.

Enhancing Your Newsletter

To ensure your newsletter doesn't contribute to information overload, consider these changes:

• Descriptive Subject Lines: Describe each issue in the subject line to grab your readers' attention before they decide whether to open your message.
• Short and Sweet: In the era of information overload, less is more. Aim to publish newsletters that can be read in five minutes or less. Keeping it under 20k in size increases the likelihood of your readers reading it from start to finish, earning you a loyal following.