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Why do you need a website?
Many new small business owners have limited resources and tend to focus on the bare necessities to upstart their biz. So I get why some people think having a website is a luxury they can’t afford. But the bottom line is your new business CAN’T afford to NOT have a website.
A website is an online home to your brand. It is a gateway that you own. Most people come to expect legitimate businesses to have a well-built, functional website. And when potential customers can’t find your website online, they may write you off as bootleg or too small-time to do business with. I mean, if you’re not willing to spend your money on your business why should they spend theirs?
A professional website isn’t an expensive luxury you can do without — it’s a fundamental tool that legitimizes your business and gives you complete control over your online brand.
So what does it take to get my website up and running?
There are many paths to getting a website launched for your business. The easiest and most efficient is to hire a professional website designer and developer to collaborate with you. They’ll help you organize and display all of the necessary content on a customized website and handle all the technical pieces so you can focus on your own zone of genius.
When working with me, I handle the design and development of your site and take care of all the bells and whistles that bring your vision to life. But first, a little prep work is in order. Here’s what you need when you’re about to build the website of your dreams:
1: Strategy first, always
First things first. Have you developed your brand strategy? We can make magic with your website but if you aren’t clear on your brand strategy we have a little more work to do. You can read my blog about the importance of a brand strategy here. This will help you figure out specific goals for your brand and what you want it to do for your customers.
Next we have to put together a strategy for the site itself. How will the website will flow? What features and feelings do you want for your site? Take a look at your favorite websites for inspiration. What do you love? What do you hate? Who has the features that you think would work for you? Don’t worry, you are not copying people just because you get inspiration from their sites.
Together we will create something that’s as unique and powerful as you are.
2. Words that Work
Words tell your customers what to do and how to buy. This is what we call website copy. It’s literally every word on your site. Without copy that motivates and resonates, you are missing opportunities to connect with your clients and push them to your goals. When working on your website, copy can be one of the biggest delays so it’s best to think about these things as early as possible.
There are big copy opportunities like headlines, bios, and product and service descriptions. There are also micro-opportunities for copy such as the calls-to-action, blogs and pop-up boxes. Lot’s of little words make a big difference. What will your website say?
3. Make it Picture Perfect
Images can make or break a website design. Did you do your photoshoots already? Are your products photographed in a way that makes them look irresistible? Pics that don’t tell your brand’s story, match your level of excellence, or make you look amazing, will jack up your site. We want your site to send a good vibe and wow your customers!
It pays to invest in imagery that will enhance your site and remind people why they chose your business in the first place.
Need help building your online home?
Get a website that wows.
Just like physical real estate, building a home online is a big undertaking. Don’t feel alone in the process. Let me share my years of knowledge and experience to help you create a website you’re proud to show off. All it takes is one free phone call to get started. Book a consultation for your new online home here.
