Over the last six months, you’ve watched the number of hits and the level of engagement with your business website decline. You’ve also seen far fewer customers hire your services than in the past.
These are clear warning signs that something is off and it’s time to take action to help your business get back on track. Because business websites and search engine algorithms are changing constantly, it is highly probable that it’s time for an upgrade.
Use Pixel Fire Marketing’s quick self-assessment to see if your site makes the grade. If not, we can help get you back on top in no time.
Evaluate Your Business Website’s Content
Pull up your company’s site, and ask yourself the following questions:
- Does your website reflect you and your company’s values and mission?
- Is all the pertinent company and staff information up to date?
- Is your website user-friendly with streamlined processes for finding what is needed?
- Do all of your links work?
- Are the pictures, prices, and features current and visually appealing?
- Does your website offer valuable insights and resources for your clients through blogs, articles, videos, and other interactive features?
- Is your site error-free and professional looking?
- Is your website free of security issues?
- Does your website work well on mobile devices?
- Is your site slow to load or unnavigable?
If you can answer “yes” to all these questions, your business website is in great shape. Have your marketing team check for search engine optimization (SEO) and you can relax, knowing that your future clients will have no trouble finding you online.
What is SEO and Why Does It Matter?
96.7% of internet searches take place on Google, and more than half of the online shoppers seek the products they want to buy on Google. To compete for business and cast a wide net for your client base, you must have a website that stands out on search engines.
In order to top the results list, your website requires a strong SEO strategy with strategically chosen key words, a careful and intentional site layout, and “crawlability” (the ability for Google’s bots to detect and index your site. The website design is a part of an overall brand creation strategy that is vital among the ever-increasing number of competitors you’ll face.
My Business Website Definitely Needs an Upgrade. What Do I Do?
A great website is your company’s introduction to the world. In addition to correcting any problem areas revealed in your self-assessment, these features will make your site shine.
Tell Your Story
Your website adds integrity to your business and helps you build trust with clients, customers, and prospects. It’s imperative to have a human touch to show that there are actual people running your company and will be taking care of your clients.
Does your company have a great origin story? Has it been passed down through multiple generations of your family or are you offering a service that is brand new? Tell your story through your website and let your personality show. Highlight the bios of key staff as well. This helps your potential client connect with you on a personal level and understand where you come from and what you stand for. If your values and priorities resonate with what they want, there is an instant connection that will help them choose you.
When it comes to the younger generations of adults, specifically the millennials, who are the largest generation our nation has ever known, their shopping habits are centered around ethical sourcing, buying local, and investing in a worthy cause. If these features are a part of your business, make sure to include them when you tell your story.
Add a Customer Review Option
You may be a bit nervous to invite clients to publish what they really think about your company for the world to see, and sure, there are some people out there who will not be happy no matter what customer service you offer them, but if your company offers great service and a great product, word will spread, and your satisfied clients will be happy to share positive reviews. These reviews are an important feature of your website. In fact, it’s estimated that over 90% of online shoppers and service seekers read reviews and use them to help inform their decision to buy, so make sure they are visible on your homepage.
Visual Appeal
The old adage still holds true…a picture is worth a thousand words. However, when it comes to marketing your product through your website, not just any old picture is sufficient. You need high-quality, attention-grabbing photos that keep viewers engaged and showcase the best features of your company.
Harmonious and consistent color palettes throughout the site are also key to your site’s appeal.
Make Sure Clients Know How to Reach You
Add a “Contact Us” option to your website and feature the link prominently throughout the website so that no matter what page he’s on when he has questions or wants to learn more, he can reach you quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
This simple addition can save time for both you and the client. What do your clients inquire most often? By pre-empting their questions, you are providing valuable customer service.
Call in the Professionals
Designing and maintaining a professional, optimized, and customer-oriented website is a sizable task. At Pixel Fire Marketing, we stay abreast of the latest web design trends, monitor and update our clients’ websites, and structure their content for optimal results. We would love the opportunity to do the same for your business, whether you are looking for a website upgrade or are just getting ready to launch your business. Give us a call to learn more.
