So does your website still live in the past?

I often advocate rebranding or redesigning your website as this is important for your business. However I only advocate it when this makes sense to your business and not just for the sake of it. As a designer I design for purpose in most cases and can take an objective view and look at ways of improving on the old website.

What I have seen too often is people are reluctant to spend money on their website, even if it is promoting their business.
Why is this? If you were to get a plumber out to fix your leaky tap or burst pipe you would expect to pay around £60 an hour and not really question this amount of money. Of course if you can do that yourself then you could make some money! However, when it comes to your business, spending money on your website should be seen as an investment into your future.

Another common issue is the suitability of your website, does it meet your business needs? Are you getting enquiries?
People often get defensive of their website and justly so, it is an extension of their personality, beliefs, inspirations, aspirations but it is all too easy to get caught up with not giving the right impression.

It is important to take a step back from your website now and then and objectively assess if the website looks professional. A poor represenation will not do you any favours in the websites of today and could be damaging to your business. It is also important to remain objective, it's not a time to get defensive if your website is not performing how you expect it too.

Content is still King - This cliché will always be true and will always be user focused, however, you only have seconds to give a good impression! Before anyone has even read your content, your site should stand out as professional; the times of a stale, homegrown website are gone and so will your prospective clients if they see this kind of website. Of course there are arguments for and against websites looking too pretty but essentially it is about projecting a professional image and outlook for your website.

With the rise of social media it is more important to portray your business in a professional manner, the rise of mouth of word will be a crucial aspect going forward as the viral nature of the social media platforms will increase the views of your website and essentially your business.

Ask yourself - do you think your website portrays your business well?

If you are honest with yourself, there is no time to be complacent or defensive and if you believe your website could do with representing your business better in the market of today then you need to take steps forward in improving your online presence.

So what can you do about improving your website?

Well this is a vital step and if you are asking yourself this question then you are stepping in the right direction. You could perform a survey, get opinions from people who are not biased about your business or website, create a picture of how people see your website and the image it creates.

Action!

No we're not at the movies, however, actioning on your findings from looking at ways to improve your website should be key. You should also find a web designer who can relate to your business needs and look to ways of improving your professional image and can create you a website to be proud of for now and the future.

If you would like to see how MultiLayer Design can help your business look and feel professional then contact us today!

Comments

1

Kev
29th September 2009 at 8:40PM

Looking for the right web designer or developer can be a minefield

2

Web Development Hampshire
29th September 2009 at 8:46PM

Getting users to[x] test your site is importantIf you are not testing on an ongoing basis how can you measure the results

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