9 rules of thumb for small businesses websites

There are a lot of elements to integrate in order to optimize a website. But let´s start by setting the basics  in place. Here are the 9 rules of thumb your small business website should respect:

1- A clear and concise mission statement on your homepage

Of course your site needs a space about your company and what you do. There you can answer in details all the questions from your visitors. But it is also essential to write a brief description of the company’s fundamental purpose on your homepage. Basically your mission statement answers the question, Why do we exist?

2- Proofread, thoughtful and professional content throughout

No matter how professional you are in your line of business, if you cannot convey it to your target audience, your talent may never be noticed. So make sure to express yourself clearly and  in line with the image and the message you want to convey.

3- Relevant and focussed content containing keywords

Your website exists to deliver information. It has to be very specific in its wording to deliver a clear message. Focussing on using keywords is a good way to make sure to convey the needed information about your business. It also assure you a better ranking by search engines, since visitors will find your site by typing keywords query in their Google or search engine bar.

4- Pages that are easily consumable and scan-able

When visitors find your site through keyword search and web browsing, they need to find on your landing page what they are after extremely quickly. Most of the time, they are not in the mindset of reading a book or an article, but more scanning around your site looking for answers. So keep your words and sentences short, simple and to the point.

5- An easy navigation and clear hierarchy of information

When reading a book, because of the obvious binding and the page number reported in the corners, figuring out how to read a book is not so hard. On a website it is a bit more complicated because the information is not displayed linearly. On a page you have different types of information displayed, so you have to make sure that the navigation is easy. You can use large, easily readable navigation buttons  or colored read more, whatever visual help you want to guide your visitor. But remember the golden rule: an information should never be more than 3 clicks away.

6- An attractive, modern and standout design

Your website is your digital business card. It has to look professional and reflect your business image. But don’t forget that visitors come on your site to find answers. So you need a design which showcases the content more than the page. The design has to be here to support you in explaining to the world what you do and why it is beneficial to work with you.

7- Continuity throughout site design

Unity of your design will give ease of navigation and use. Even though many options are available. you should be careful to not abuse of flash animations, effects, bright colors and 3D. In order to have an impact they have to be used purposely and sparingly. Too much of it will clutter your message and give a feeling of confusion to your users.

8- A call to action!

Of course good content and attractive design will help to retain your visitors. But at the end of the day what is the purpose of your site? Interaction! So call for action all over your site. You can use text, button, social media tools.. Just mix all the options you can think of as you can never be sure which one appeals more to your visitors.

9- A business blog/news section

A news or blog section regularly updated keeps your site alive. It gives a reason to visitors to come back on the site. Adding relevant content on a regular basis also helps your ranking by search engines  and consequently your visibility to new visitors. It also attracts links and demonstrate your credibility and legitimacy in your branch.

Of course there are many other directions we could recommand you to follow from empty space placed strategically to air a bit your site, mainly if you opted for a non-white background, to SEO rules..
If you want to hear more contact us or check out other posts What is the best website for me? Running my own website, really?