Without a doubt, your most powerful marketing tool, hands down, is your business website.
And, as you are probably well aware, some websites are designed better than others.
Have you ever visited a website and been disappointed? Or worse, tried to visit a website that failed to load within a few seconds?
Of course you have. We all have. And, more likely than not, you have probably moved on.
Their loss…or maybe it’s your loss.
The simple truth is that every business needs a website that wows its visitors.
In a nutshell, your business website can either:
- Help you stand out from your competitors or
- Drive people directly to your competitors.
These days, savvy business owners must consider the fact that their audience seeks more than just a place to go online to purchase products and/or services. Instead, they crave a unique and highly visual online experience that entices and delights them.
And this is where good website design comes in.
Here are 3 good reasons why you need a business website that “wows” your visitors
1. You only have one chance to make a first impression – so make it count!
Website visitors often decide whether they want to do business with you within a fraction of a second, based on how they perceive your site. They may not even be aware they are judging you.
In her article for Design Shack, Carrie Cousins says the following about the importance of visually pleasing website design schemes:
The visuals that will grab the most attention the quickest include a strong image or illustration, sharp contrast or something unusual on the screen, and a phrase or wording that is memorable.
The better “first impression” you give, the more likely your visitors are to stay and/or return to your website. Good website design definitely makes a difference when it comes to attracting and retaining potential clients.
2. Your business website is a direct reflection of YOU
Along with that all-important first impression a website gives to its visitors, your website design also gives them an idea (perceived or realistic) of how you conduct business. For example, shoddy web design may inadvertently give your visitors the impression that your products and/or services are also inferior or low quality.
On the other hand, a well-designed business website can go a long way towards building trust. And trust is a big factor in sales. An organized website with a strong visual component creates a sense of legitimacy for you and your business.
As I mentioned above, your business’ website is also your most powerful marketing tool. Consider a good design as yet another way you can successfully stand out from your competition.
3. Your website is an essential component of your business branding
As well as being a valuable marketing tool, your business website also serves to promote your brand. Brand exposure is valuable for all businesses, of course. However, it’s especially important for new business owners and/or startups that need to establish a positive reputation from the get-go.
What are my options for building the best business website?
Now that you understand why you need a well-designed business website, you are ready for the next step: building one.
You’re going to find that there are dozens of website builder platforms and sites currently available.
Perhaps you’re strapped for time, or design isn’t your strong suit? Many startups and new entrepreneurs find that it’s easier to hire someone else who has the time and the talent.
Unless you personally know or have received a trusted referral for a web designer, you may consider looking into sites such as 99designs and Upwork to find someone who can help you with all of your web design needs without breaking the bank.
On the other hand, if you are more of a “do-it-yourself” type, you’ll find many affordable options as well.
In his article for SteamFeed, “All Websites are Not Created Equal: How to Choose the Best Option for You,” Tim Griffin shares pros and cons of some of the more popular website builders.
Griffin reviews the following do-it-yourself options for building websites:
Regardless of who designs your business website, these are some of the primary aspects you should consider when designing your business website:
- Logo and branding
- Simple typography that is easy to read
- Defined color palette
- Easy user interface tools and elements that work in intuitive ways
- Navigation that moves users through the site
- Strong images that showcase your brand
- Concise and targeted copy
- Easy to understand calls-to-action
- Your brand story told in a way that connects with users
- Modern design techniques and interface
Source: Design Shack
Are you in the process of designing or redesigning your business website? Do you agree that a well-designed website is critical for successful online marketing? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Please feel free to leave a comment below.
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