4 Website Design Concepts That Make or Break Your Business

How does a potential customer choose between you and another business when using the Internet?  They search and compare.  They are getting more Internet savvy in recognizing deception and scams that are increasingly present online today.  

What can a small business do, then, to secure their online presence and be deemed trustworthy?  A sharp and well-dressed website design will provide your business credibility and set you apart from your competitors online.

Here are four concepts for small businesses that can make or break your business:

Concept #1:  5 Seconds! That’s all you have to secure a potential customer’s attention online.

Customers initially surf the Internet by using “keywords.”  When they land on your website, they will scan for those keywords first, not read your entire website. Therefore, keywords should be popping out on your home page so they can determine right away whether your business is what they’re looking for or not.  

Placing the right information in the right spot is crucial.


·      Place your contact info or an easy identifiable contact icon in the upper right hand corner of your website

·      If you will be offering a special deal or limited time coupon, place that on the home page

·      Showcase your special services

·      Plainly communicate reasons your potential customers should work with you

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Concept #2:  Customers will examine your business based on what they see online.

With the Internet today, potential customers will browse your website and decide right then and there if they will physically visit your shop (if you have a brick and mortar) or purchase directly from your website.  They want to know what to expect from your business.  Your website design will speak volumes to them as to whether it says cheap or platinum, experienced or ready to close up shop. 

What does your online presence say about your business?

•   Showcase your products with professional photos and/or videos – use before and after shots, if applicable

•   Highlight your staff with photos and biographies

•   Display award icons, list certifications, etc. – this will really boost your credibility

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Concept #3:  Unworkable websites are the biggest responsive obstacles for customers.

Did you know you could lose 50% of online sales due to potential customers not being able to find content on your website?  Visitors who are searching the Internet are usually in a hurry and/or are already frustrated.  A website that is not very user friendly or the content is jumbled will only add to their frustration, which will most likely send them to another website looking for what they want.  Today’s customers want to be able to find things quickly, easily and conveniently.

You should have a user friendly website by having:

•   Your main information front and center on the home page

•   An easy to find call to action

•   A website that is also mobile friendly

•   Up-to-date and current information

•   Quick and easy links that load instantly – avoid having flash player – most mobile phones cannot use flash player

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Concept #4:  Remind satisfied customers that you still exist.

You know customers that were displeased or disappointed with your work will leave feedback.  Satisfied customers will usually go on with their day.  With that in mind, you want to keep your name in front of them as much and as often as possible by being where they are.  Offer tips or advice on your website to keep them coming back and interested in your professional knowledge and abilities.

How do you stay in front of them?

•   Consistent listings on Google, Bing, Yelp, etc.

•   E-mail marketing

•   Social media – Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, blog, etc.

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As a small business owner, you know that understanding what your customer wants is valuable.  Being just as successful online is just as important.  Educating yourself about what potential customers want and are looking for when searching for your type of service on the Internet will assist you on how to successfully grow and build your online presence.  With this in mind, you will receive more business, gain credibility and build trust among your customers.

When you are ready to make your small business website work for you, contact us.