Everyone is connected to the internet these days, whether it be through a laptop, tablet, or smartphone. Information and services online are readily available at the touch of a button. When in need of a local service, restaurant, or store, what is the first thing you do? Often, hop online and google it. If someone referred you to a business, typically you would first check out their website to learn a little bit more about them and then get their contact information. It is the simple truth that when in need of information, the internet is often the first place people turn to.
Yet, it is shocking how many businesses have outdated and poorly constructed websites. As a business, your website is the first impression and one of the most important investments you can make. I have heard before, “My website really isn’t that important. Most of my business comes through word of mouth.” That is like saying, “I don’t care if I don’t always appear professional. I don’t want new business.” Even if you think your site does not get much traffic and doesn’t play a large role in your business, it is still a representation of your company.
When you visit a website that is well done and easy to interact with, you are immediately satisfied and think better of that company. Often when you are searching for a product or service, you will compare multiple companies and weed out the ones that don’t leave a good impression on you. When I stumble across a website that is clearly outdated, I will leave as soon as possible and move onto the next search result. It makes me think, “This company doesn’t even care enough to represent themselves online properly. I don’t have time to look all through that mess to find exactly what I am looking for.”
These two important points should be considered by anyone who owns a business:
- Your website reflects you as a business owner and professional.
If your website looks professional, your potential clients will think you’re a reputable company who has enough clients and enough business to have a site built for you. If potential clients visit your web site and find a mess, they will have a negative perception of your company. -
Your website can mean extra business.
No matter your profession, having a solid web site can mean extra business. Local clientele often perform searches online and will find your web site. If they find your competitors and they look more reputable or solid than you (or if they have a web site and you don’t), you will lose business, just because of your website.
What Makes a Website Good?
What will make people choose to stay on your website rather than move along to the next search result?
- Content
Content is king! Give the audience what they came there for. The products, services, or information you provide have to make sure your business stands out. - Structure
You can have great content, but the user will quickly become exasperated if they cannot find the information they want. Your website needs to be well structured and easy to use. Web users do not have the patience to hunt through every word on your site. Navigation, headings, and other designs means must be utilized to engage the user. - Design
The look and feel of a website is another key aspect to consider. It is important to have an up to date, interactive feel about your website. Nobody wants to spend time on a site where the text is hard to read and things are poorly positioned. It is part of your image, make sure it looks good.
If you are ready to transform your online image, we can help! Start by contacting us.
Leave a Reply