Hey there, fellow small business owner! We all know the feeling – you’ve poured your heart and soul into your venture, but your website just isn’t bringing in the customers you deserve. Maybe it feels outdated, confusing to navigate, or just plain invisible online. Don’t worry, you’re not alone! But fear not, because revamping your website doesn’t have to be a design degree or a bank-breaker. Today, we’re tackling the Dos and Don’ts of web design, with a special focus on us, the awesome small business warriors!

Do: Become a Website Whisperer (It’s Easier Than You Think!)

Do understand your visitors. Think of them as friends coming to your online store. What information would they be looking for? Make sure it’s easy to find with clear menus and navigation.
Do showcase your amazingness! High-quality photos and videos that capture your products or services are a must. Think of it as your online handshake – a warm and inviting first impression.
Do keep it mobile-friendly. These days, everyone uses their phones! Ensure your website looks sharp and functions flawlessly on all devices, big or small.
Do have calls to action that convert. What do you WANT visitors to do after they land on your website? Contact you for a quote? Schedule an appointment? Make it crystal clear with easy-to-find buttons and calls to action.
Do embrace the power of “YOU”. People connect with people! Don’t be afraid to inject some personality into your website. Use high-quality photos that showcase your team, your products in action, or even happy customers.

Don’t: Confuse Your Visitors with a Website Labyrinth

Don’t overwhelm them with flashy animations or cluttered layouts. Remember, you want to guide them, not give them a headache! A clean, simple design is your best friend.
Don’t speak in tongues! Jargon and overly technical language might sound impressive, but it just pushes people away. Use friendly, easy-to-understand language that your ideal customer would use.
Don’t forget the call to action! Tell your visitors what you want them to do next, whether it’s contacting you, browsing products, or signing up for your newsletter. Make those buttons clear and easy to find.
Don’t use stock photos. Generic stock photos are a snooze. Use high-quality images that reflect your brand and resonate with your target audience.
Don’t become a broken link bandit: There’s nothing worse than clicking a link and landing on an error page. Make sure all your links are up-to-date and functioning properly.

Bonus Do! Embrace the power of free online web design tools and resources. There are tons of website builders and design platforms out there that are perfect for small businesses. Do your research and find one that fits your budget and skillset.

Remember, your website is your online storefront, and you want it to be warm, welcoming, and informative. By following these Dos and Don’ts, you can create a website that showcases your awesomeness and converts visitors into loyal fans. When it comes to web design you’ve got this! And if you ever feel overwhelmed, there are plenty of resources available to help you on your website journey. So go forth and conquer the digital world!

If you are struggling to decide between building your own website or hiring a professional? You’re not alone! In this video, I dive into the pros and cons of each approach, helping you make the best decision for your needs and budget.