First impressions go a long way. This applies to your website too. If your website design looks dated, visitors might think you’re behind in more ways than one. But if it’s too trendy, you run the risk of not being taken seriously. So what should you do? Create a timeless website design that is clean and focused on usability. We compiled the following guidelines to help you get your site in that sweet spot. So, read on and get started!
1. Standard design features
Business logo
Contact button
Next, make sure you have a contact button. A contact button is often in the top right corner of the page. Having a contact button shows potential clients how to reach you. After all, if they have to search for hours for an email address, they might just move on to the next option.
Easy-to-access website navigation
Be sure to include some form of navigation at the top of the page. This will make it a cinch for visitors to browse your site. If your website is packed with content, another key function to include is a search feature. Whether it’s a box or an icon, it will make it even easier for those perusing. However, if your site doesn’t have a large amount of content, a search feature isn’t always necessary.
Tip: for more navigation tips and tricks, read Navigation, the secret weapon to web design.
2. A strong home page
You only have a few seconds to grab people’s attention, so make sure your home page is optimized. Your landing page should have it all: a visually appealing design with strong images that support your message, well-written and captivating text to get your mission across, and a clear navigation.
Additionally, you can add call-to-action buttons to encourage engagement. For example, “Buy now” can lead to your eCommerce page and “Learn more” could bring visitors to a page where they can sign up for your newsletter.
3. Include social media icons
It’s easy to understand why social media is important for your business. It’s the perfect opportunity to show your customers another side of your business. You can go more in-depth about your brand, show behind the scenes, and even get more personal! Additionally, social channels are also key for spreading the word and reaching new customers. One third of millennials say social media is one of their preferred methods of communicating with businesses. That is why it’s important that you link to your social media channels on your website.
The footer of your website is typically the best place to include icons that link to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and other social media platforms.
Tip: not sure how to get started with your social media strategy? Start with growing your small business through social media.
4. Use a responsive design
Not everyone will visit your site on a computer, so make sure your website works equally well on phones, tablets, and other devices. Google even confirmed that most U.S. Google searches take place on mobile devices instead of computers. In general, mobile now takes up 65 percent of all digital media time.
That’s why you should keep mobile devices in mind when designing and programming your new website. If you already have a website, it will be worth your time and effort to make it more mobile friendly. WordPress offers plenty of mobile-friendly themes that are easy and quick to integrate.
5. Build a brand
A website is a key component of any brand. It’s your virtual business card. Therefore, you should make sure your website’s design gets your message across and is consistent with the rest of your brand. For example, use images to add visual interest and get the aesthetic of your business across. You should also make sure the fonts and colors on your website are the same as on your business cards. It might be handy to create a style guide if you don’t have one already. This will ensure your text and images are consistent.
Tip: design choices may seem trivial, but they can have a big impact on your bottom line.
These five guidelines are the basics to help you get started on building a great website. If you’re still unsure of your web savviness, browsing the internet might be a good idea. There are many helpful tools available, such as MOJO Marketplace. They offer premium website themes that will do the heavy lifting for you. After all, you have a business to grow.
