The reality of your business may be you sitting in front of your computer in your pajamas and drinking coffee. The perception can be a web presence that rivals any Fortune 500 company.

In fact, the Internet itself has enabled many home based businesses to thrive because of the low cost involved in starting and maintaining a website. These days, having a site may be a warning sign to some potential customers. It's hard to imagine any entrepreneur who wouldn't benefit from an effective site.

Because home-based businesses often are virtual, your website often becomes your office for all practical purposes. Think about the image you want to project to current and potential clients. An attorney, for example, would use a more traditional design and writing tone than an artist or fashion designer.

Surf around the net and see what similar companies are doing. Ask a professional association to recommend effective sites. Ask your clients what they like - and don't like - about the sites they frequently business.

Look for ways to tailor the functionality to the needs of your business and clients. For example, a free-lance writer or artist may provide a secure mechanism for clients to review copy or artwork. An accountant may provide a way to view client records electronically. If you are selling a tangible product, make it easy to order online and track shipments.

Everyone who visits your site does so with certain preconceptions. A good way to keep them coming back is to always give them more than they expected.