Your business website is often the first impression that your business is going to make on potential customers and clients. It doesn't matter whether somebody finds you through a quick Google search or clicks on a link from social media, your website needs to grab their attention and make them want to stick around. You get less than 10 seconds to impress somebody long enough for them to stay on your website. But you don't have to be a tech wizard or even a marketing guru to make your website stand out.
Make it easy
Your website is like a store front and if it's cluttered or confusing or even hard to navigate, no one's going to hang around. One of the best ways to make sure that your visitors stay engaged is to make your site as easy as possible to use. This means clear menus, simple navigation, and excellent web design so that access to important information is simple. If someone has to click around for 5 minutes just to find your phone number, you've probably lost them.
Make the visuals eye-catching
A picture really is worth a thousand words and while you still want to make sure you have a good balance of HTML and content, you need to make sure that the HTML that you do use is high quality with short videos and splashes of color. You want your website to feel lively and modern. There doesn't need to be a big slow loading, massive photo shoot. You just need to make sure that the visuals that you do choose match your brand, giving your visitors a clear idea of who you are and what you offer.
Invest in your web design
Great web design isn't just about how your site looks, but about how it works. A well designed website is mobile friendly, loads quickly and makes a great first impression without overwhelming anybody who clicks through. Fonts should be easy to read, with buttons easy to click, and everything should feel smooth and professional from the get go .
Make it personal
One thing that makes your website stand out is personality. Instead of just listing your services or products, take a minute to tell your story about how your business started. What do you believe in the most, and why do you love what you do? Even short paragraphs on your homepage or About Us page can help people to connect with your brand and feel more comfortable reaching out.
What is it that you want people to do when they come to your website? Do you want them to call you or fill out a form, book an appointment or sign up to a newsletter? Whatever the goal may be, make it clear and make it easy to find. A strong call to action tells your visitors exactly where to go and what to do next. Calls to action should be placed in smart spots like the top of the page or after a paragraph that explains your services. Be direct, but polite. People just need a nudge.
