Your current website no longer meets current standards. Its design is outdated, and it may not meet Google's technical requirements.
When users search for a product or service, they turn to Google, and then to your website if it’s well-ranked.
If your business isn't listed on Google, it's invisible to users. It's a sad but undeniable reality.
Google is the leader!
As the market leader, Google sets standards that must be followed. The most important one today is HTML5—not HTML3 or HTML4, but HTML5. Additionally, your domain name must begin with “https://” and not “http://.”
Can you answer “yes” to both of these questions? More specifically, is your website responsive (optimized for different devices) and secure? To be clear, your website must be “mobile-friendly” and secure—with the “s” in “https://.”
Your website’s security is essential to ensuring that it continues to be indexed and ranked on Google. If you’re not sure how to do this, do a Google search using your website’s domain name. If you see a padlock, that’s great—you’re secure! If not, contact your developer right away.
Mobile first!
Now let’s get back to “responsive” design. 90% of website traffic comes from smartphones or tablets. If you answer “no” to this question, that poses a huge problem, because you’re losing a significant portion of your traffic—and therefore your business potential.
Your design represents your company online
As you search for the “perfect” design, be sure to stay true to your company’s personality. Are you understated and classic, or do you have more of a startup vibe with bright colors? This choice should be reflected on your website and indirectly convey your company’s mindset.
Taking the time to redesign your website is an essential step, even though it can be challenging for a small business. It’s a necessary step that we frequently encounter as marketing consultants. It’s also an opportunity to reposition your company in relation to your services/products and your competitors. Take this opportunity to check whether your brand guidelines align with your website and other communication materials.
Who should I keep in mind when redesigning my website?
When redesigning your website, be sure toestablish a clear site map. How will your website be structured? A site map is like a hierarchy, where you define the categories and the links between them.
Your new website will need to follow certain guidelines:
- It should be clear, allowing visitors to easily find the information they need.
- Include a contact form and contact information (phone number, email address, etc.).
- Include an "About" section to explain your company, your values, and your mission, and to highlight your team. Give your website a personal touch.
- Present your services/products clearly. Your website is your virtual storefront, but it’s also a sales channel.
You may be wondering whether it’s a good idea to list prices on your website.It all depends on your services or products. If your rates are clear, feel free to display them. Otherwise, you can simply say “request a quote.”
Statistically speaking—as Google Analytics will show you—if visitors don't find the answer to their question within 3 seconds, they'll leave the website. It's therefore essential that they find what they're looking for quickly.
If you’d like to update your website and realign it with your products and services, please don’t hesitate to contact us—we’ll help you develop a set of specifications that meets your needs.