5 things every successful website needs
By Val | 18 Aug 2023
I’ve been immersed in the world of websites for over 5 years – from sales-focused roles in e-commerce to building my own sites on platforms like Wix and WordPress. I’ve even learned coding, mastering HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to craft unique online experiences for diverse businesses across the globe. That is why, in this post, I’m excited to share 5 indispensable elements that every effective website should possess to fulfill its central purpose: propelling your brand towards its objectives.
These principles transcend website size, whether it’s a sprawling masterpiece or a compact yet impactful digital presence. Moreover, they are universally applicable, catering to businesses of all types and industries.
But first…
Why does your business need a website?
If you’re launching a new business or are already in the throes of business, enjoying success, you might question the necessity of a website. A no brainer answer? An emphatic YES, echoed a thousand times over.
In a nutshell, technology has enveloped our lives for a considerable duration, with Artificial Intelligence reigning supreme and Google as the default source of information for nearly everyone. Relying solely on social media platforms is no longer the best.
Given the rapid changing nature of the market – a reality you probably know already – even possessing a truly unique product or service begs the question: how long before imitation creeps in? What truly sets you apart? Fundamentally, it’s the power of a robust brand identity. The discussion around establishing such an identity is for another post, but a website becomes the canvas on which you artfully paint your uniqueness, telling your story in a manner that resonates.
If you find yourself struggling with the first steps of website creation, don’t hesitate to reach out via Instagram or our Contact page. We’re here to offer insights, leveraging our wealth of experience alongside your aspirations.
Now, onto the essentials…
Five key points every website must have
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Clear CTAs (Call-to-Actions): At the foundation of your web design lies a clear and compelling objective. Whether it’s product sales, lead generation, or appointment bookings, your website should guide visitors towards achieving these goals. A prime example involves the strategic placement of a services section paired with a prominent “Contact Us” button. As users delve deeper, they encounter glimpses of your backstory – essential for building rapport – before unveiling your portfolio or testimonials. These strategic design choices channel users towards the ultimate conversion. Tip: Limit CTAs and emphasize the most critical ones with distinctive design elements or colours.
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Great Design: Two core aspects underscore a successful design. Firstly, alignment with your brand is key. Your website’s narrative must consistently match the story you’ve been telling. Imagine a business projecting a certain image and tone across its social media, only to have its website present a discordant narrative. This dissonance could sow seeds of skepticism regarding professionalism and credibility, potentially deterring engagement. Secondly, the user experience is super important. Seamless navigation, a logical layout, readable text, and swift loading times are non-negotiables.
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High-Quality Content: One of the most common hurdles faced by businesses is to have their content ready. Consequently, prior to create a website, ensure you’ve gathered your content, particularly for multi-page setups. Keep in mind that while your website can expand over time, it’s crucial to commence with content that resonates. This can be achieved through a great copy, branded images, engaging videos, or catchy infographics. Tip: Consider the option of a single-page layout with distinct sections, channeling the best content to a central hub.
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SEO Optimised: In order to rank higher in every Google search, Search Engine Optimization (SEO), must be an integral part of your website’s DNA. Strategically integrating relevant keywords, meta descriptions, ensuring a search-engine-friendly URL structure, and a fast loading website, all contribute to elevating your site’s search engine ranking.
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Mobile-Friendly Design: In a mobile-dominated era, ensuring that your website is fully responsive across devices is no longer optional. Mobile-friendliness enhances user experience, influences bounce rates, and indirectly impacts search engine rankings.
Remember that a great website opens many doors, and if you’re building you website by yourself (which is totally valid, as we all have been in that position where we have a tight budget and nee to have many hats in the business) don’t forget to check out for some inspiration online. Review websites such as Behance, Awwwards, or even our Portfolio 💕.
Until the next post!