Creating a website for your small business is one of the best ways to engage with your potential customers in this modern era. A small business website should be informative, aesthetically pleasing and easy to use. There are many different things to consider when designing a website for your small business including what the overall look will be and what the main focus is. Keep reading to find out how to design an informative website for your small business.
Domain Name
When choosing a domain name for your website you should make sure that it is direct and obvious to consumers what your website is for. You will have to select a domain host which will sell you the website address. If your business is for financial advice try to a website that has something with finance in the name. Popular domain hosts include Godaddy.com, Name.com, Register.com and Namecheap.com. The cost of a domain name is relatively inexpensive and definitely worth the price because it will give people access to your company and what it is about any time of day or night.
Select the Right Host
You will need to choose a website host for your website that will store information, process visitors and avoid hackers. There are many different hosting services to choose from depending on your needs. Some of the most popular website hosts include Verizon.com, Dreamhost.com, Bluehost.com, Siteground.com and more. Research your options to make sure that the hosting provider you choose will be able to run smoothly, be affordable and offer the customer service you require.
Design
Although you may want to make sure that your site is flashy and draws in the person viewing it, you are actually better off to keep your website looking clean and simple. People do not want to be overwhelmed when they visit your site as they are looking for information about your products or services. Have your website’s name and logo on every page along with an easy to navigate tool bar. Keeping your logo the same over various platforms including your website helps to create a strong identity that your customers can begin to know and trust.
Highlight Reviews
If you have an existing customer base ask them to write reviews about your products or services that you will be able to showcase on your website. This will help to not only give people faith in your work, but will also add a personable dimension in a cyber setting.
Contact Information
You should keep all of your contact information visible and easy to find on your site. This information should include business phone numbers, emails and the physical location (and any other information you think is necessary). It should be listed on every page or have a page that is easy to find that is dedicated to that information. An interactive map can give people driving directions to your location as they can easily plug in their starting location.
Ease of Use
To have a successful business website it needs to be easy to use and navigate. There is nothing that can scare off a potential customer like a broken or overwhelming website. Make sure that the layout of your website is easy to follow. Use images when needed, but don’t add them just for the sake of having pictures. Check your website to make sure that spelling is correct and that there are no broken links. The easier the website is to browse the more likely you will gain a customer.
Send Out Newsletters
Newsletters and other promotional information can be emailed to a list of customers that have opted in to find out more about your business and related news. These newsletters can help to engage your customers leading them to visit your website or store resulting in sales.
Building a website for your small business can help you to grow your business, engage your customer base, develop your brand and increase overall sales.