Websites have become a critical part of almost every successful business marketing strategy and yet we see a lot of small businesses struggling just to get the basics right. With that in mind, we created this simple list of things you need to get right in your web design.
1. Know Why Your Users Are Visiting Your Website on Their Phone
Pro-tip: Mobile users and desktop users are looking for different things when they visit your website - customize their experience. A high percent of mobile users are looking for a few quick things when they visit your website.
Mobile users want:
- A visible phone number they can click to call
- A link to directions
- A way to browser your services, products, prices without download a PDF
- An easy way to make submit a request for service
2. Know Why Your Users Are Visiting Your Website On a Computer
Users visiting your website from their Desktop computer want access to the same things that a mobile user wants, but they are not in hurry and they may be more interested in information "about" your business, photos, reviews, and information. They are more likely to be researching a topic or a service and they are more likely to be at work.
Desktop users want:
- A visible phone number they can call
- Information about the business, the owner and the staff
- Access to the your list of services
- Links to read reviews
- Photos of the products
- Contact forms to request service
3. Don't Use Stock Photos
You probably spent a ton of money on your decor and build out. You think your business looks great - so why does your website have stock photos?. This is more common than you would think especially with small businesses that use DIY websites builder tools.
Spend a few dollars on professional photos of both the business and your products for your website. Your bottom line will thank you for it.
4. Every Location Should Have A Web Page On Your Website
Another mistake we see from businesses that have multiple locations is that they don't give the locations a specific page on the website. We like to build whole sections about each location. This has a number of benefits for your customers and for your search engine rankings.
Every location for your multi-location business should have a landing page that includes that locations phone number, address, map and other relevant details for the local client.
5. Build an Email List
Your website is a great place to get people to signup for your VIP club or email list. A great email list can be used to drive traffic during your slow times and to push your revenue numbers to new highs. We have one client that is uses its email list like a cash register. They can turn on the revenue when ever they need a few more orders.
Use your website to grow your email list and put together a solid email marketing plan to take advantage of it.
Building a great website does not have to be complicated. Using great images, customize the mobile version so that the mobile user has easy access to the information they want, give your desktop users all the information and photos they can use, and build your email list so that you can market to your customers when the restaurant is slow.
Do these things and you will make the most of your business website.
