The Ultimate Website Checklist: 10 Must-Have Features
What makes an effective website for your small business? Great question!
In this article, we will be discussing the top 10 must-have features that will take your website from good to great and help you compete in the online marketplace.
1. The Power of Storytelling
We'll admit we are a little biased, but understanding your business's story is essential. A compelling story draws visitors in and gives them a reason to stay. It defines your brand's identity, values, and vision. Your story becomes the emotional connection between your brand and the visitor, ensuring they remember you long after they've left your site.
2. User-Friendly Navigation
There's nothing more frustrating than a website where you can't find what you're looking for. Clear, concise menus and a logical page hierarchy make it simple for visitors to find the information they need, increasing the chances they'll convert into paying customers.
3. Responsive Design
In our mobile age, responsive design is no longer optional. If your website doesn’t look good on a phone or tablet, you're missing out on a vast portion of your potential audience. Ensure your website adjusts seamlessly to any device for a top-notch user experience.
4. Clear Call-to-Action (CTA)
A strong CTA guides your visitors towards your business goal, whether it's signing up for a newsletter or making a purchase. It should stand out but not be too pushy, giving visitors a clear path to follow.
5. High-Quality, Engaging Content
Content is king, as they say. Ensure your website is filled with engaging, valuable content that answers your visitors' questions and showcases your expertise. Incorporate a mix of formats - from blog posts and infographics to videos and podcasts.
6. SEO Techniques
Being on the internet is one thing; being found is another! SEO ensures your website ranks high on search engine results, driving organic (free!) traffic to your site. Incorporate keyword research, meta descriptions, and high-quality backlinks to boost your SEO game. For more specific SEO strategies, check out this additional resource.
7. Social Media Integration
Make it easy for visitors to share your content and follow you on social media. Incorporate social media icons and sharing buttons on your website, so you're just a click away from a broader audience.
8. Lightning-Fast Loading Times
Did you know that a delay of even a second can drastically reduce page views? A slow website not only frustrates users but also harms your SEO. Optimize images, use caching, and consider using a Content Delivery Network (CDN) to speed things up.
9. Professional and Aesthetic Design
Your website's design should reflect the quality and professionalism of your business. A cohesive color scheme, high-quality images, and a clean layout can make a significant difference in attracting and retaining visitors.
10. Trust Signals
Things like testimonials, reviews, and trust badges can instil confidence in your visitors. Highlighting positive feedback and showcasing any certifications or awards can go a long way in building trust and credibility.
As you go…
Your website is often the first impression potential customers have of your business. By incorporating these top 10 features, you're setting yourself up for success in the digital marketplace. Remember, a website isn't just about looking good – it's about providing value, building trust, and guiding visitors towards a goal. So, roll up those sleeves, and let's get your website from good to absolutely fantastic! Our friends at Storywebs wrote another blog post you might find interesting as well — all about How To Launch Your Own Website. Check it out.
AND if you need help getting going, set up a call with us or check out our Template Shop for a quick-start on your website—everything you need, preloaded and ready to go! All you have to do is add your business-specific details.
