When was the last time you stopped into a local store or restaurant for the first time on a whim? No online research, no Yelp reviews – you just parked and walked into the store. If you’re like most people, you probably don’t even remember. And that’s why it’s so important to improve your website.
In this digital age, so much of our life is tethered to technology. As a result, your website is often the place where potential customers first interact with you.
That’s why it’s more important than ever for you to have an online presence.
Now, if you’re just getting started, you’re already pretty late to the game. Business owners could once get away will poorly designed websites that lacked a conversion funnel, educational content and a strategic user experience. But those days are gone.
Everyone is expected to rise up to the quality standards these days.
And while that’s ultimately a good thing, it can feel pretty stressful for most business owners. Thankfully, you probably don’t need to scrap your entire website and start over. Implementing these 5 tactics is a quick way to get your website up to par.
1. Install a Mobile-Responsive Theme
You need your website to work on mobile. It’s becoming more important each day – both in the eyes of users and search engines. Simply put, a mobile-responsive site displays an optimal viewing experience, regardless of your device.
So, it not only looks good on desktop, but it looks good on mobile and tablets too.
If you’ve built your website on WordPress, there are hundreds of responsive themes. Consider upgrading to a new theme if your old one doesn’t look great on mobile phones and tablets.
2. Incorporate Some Testimonials
Though the distribution methods may have changed, word-of-mouth advertising is still strong. And gaining social proof from others is a great way to increase your credibility for first-time visitors to your website.
Ask 3-5 of your most loyal customers to provide you with a testimonial of your product or service. They’ll probably be more than happy to help you out.
3. Elicit User Testing and Apply Feedback
Many business owners publish a DIY website on WordPress. They get the hosting and the theme, then put up the content themselves. I think that’s great! And it’s typically a lot quicker than getting involved with agencies.
However, when you’re the one building the website, you often get too close to the project. And that means you might miss potential mistakes or even opportunities.
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Have an unbiased third-party comb through the website for you. They’ll be able to see things that you can’t and offer some really valuable feedback. Then, of course, apply the changes.
4. Invest in Professional Photography
They say a picture is worth 1,000 words. And that’s definitely true in the online world!
You may get away with some sub-par photography for a while. But a small investment in some professional photos of yourself, the business and your products is worth it.
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If you want to set yourself up for long-term success, look into local photographers that can help you with the projects. Or, if you live in a town with an art school, consider offering the project to students wanting to build up their portfolio. They’re often much cheaper, which is great for business owners on a budget.
Are You Ready to Improve Your Website?
There’s a plethora of web design resources, guides and training available for business owners. You shouldn’t have to feel overwhelmed by the process. It’s just a matter of getting the right help and support.
Start with these four points, then expand from there. Over time, you’ll improve your website, bring in customers and spread your message all around town.