Many people ask me, “how do I know if I really need a new website?” or think, with a really outdated website, that their site is fine.
The web is old enough now that there are a lot of dated websites out there. Here are some of the most common signs that its time for a new website:
- The website is not responsive- that means it does not automatically adjust in size and layout for laptops and cell phones-without pinching and expanding. Google penalizes websites for not being responsive, and its a pain for your clients if your website does not accommodate all screen sizes.
- There are not clear call-to-actions throughout the website, such as call, contact, etc., with phone number and links to contact form easy to find and use.
- The content does not speak to the needs and concerns of your customer. The site needs to feel as if there is a conversation going on between you and your customer, with most of it being about how you improve their life or well-being.
- There isn’t sufficient imagery that adds to the message of the site. Most people are visual, so there does need to be visual engagement.
- Content is not fresh and up-to-date: like forgotten blogs or outdated products or services.
- There are oputdated or broken links or things are not easy to find or get to.
In 2010, it was found that 83% of B2B companies research online before making a buying decision. The number was higher for consumers. And with the growth of smart phones (am I the only one who thinks their smart phone is smarter than they are?), I am sure that number is now much higher. While a good (or great) social presence helps a lot, all marketing should point back to your business website where you have a more comprehensive opportunity to clarify your market position and set your company apart.
So the site needs to be well done, but it also needs to be part of your entire marketing plan. A website is not the Field of Dreams. Just because you build it doesn’t mean they’ll come. Rich content which uses the right keywords, a good social media plan and possibly a good Search Engine Marketing campaign will be needed to make you easy to find.
Contact Richterworks (847-577-0491 or use our contact form) to see what we can do to help you with a new website vision.