Quite often when people start their own business one of the first things they have to do (in most professions) is set up an online presence so that customers can find you and more importantly buy from you!
For many, the build of a website can be a minefield, and in some cases, quite stressful. Many may not know where to start or find working with technology too daunting, others may find the scale of costs off putting.
However by knowing where to start, planning ahead and avoiding the common pitfalls, clients find building a website can be quite a smooth and cost effective process to expand alongside business growth.
Here are 7 things to consider when setting up your website:
1. Purchase the domain name for your website
Once you’ve got your company name sorted make sure you register your domain name quickly. Ensure consistency across your online marketing platforms I.e website, email and social media to provide strong and professional branding across all channels.
2. Free isn’t always a bargain
Whilst the allure of free to use free or lowcost web builders sound appealing this is often a false economy and more costly in the end if you require a more flexible approach. The custom built templates are quite limited and you’re tied into the design which will cost you £££s to amend or require you to start from scratch again. Also you’re not in ownership of your website design and if the web build company closes down your site is no longer active.
3. Choosing the right website platform
Plan ahead to envisage what your website needs to be able to fulfil so you don’t have to incur any unnecessary costs in the long run. Think about using WordPress which is infinitely expandable and also leaves you in control whilst installed on your own hosting.
4. Choose the right set up
What do you need your website to do for your business – is it solely a source of information and content such as a blog, or do you need an e-commerce site to drive sales? The set up for both requirements vary immensely so should be decided and planned for accordingly from the start.
5. Remember to make your website responsive
More and more people access websites phones and tablets nowadays so ensure that your website can be read and navigated easily on these platforms and now Google is giving preference to mobile websites when people search on their mobile.
6. Have a good starting guide on what your homepage should include
Remember to outline what you offer, benefits, clear navigation menu, visuals and/or video, call to action and contact details.
7. Make sure your website delivers
Is it easy to navigate, clear and uncluttered, quick to load and optimised for search engines? Ensure that you don’t put off customers through a badly designed and unprofessional looking site! Use the right language that will be understood by your customers (not too technical) and remember to use key words that will be researched in search engines so your customers can find you more easily.
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