Time for a Website Checkup: Is Your Online Presence Still Healthy?

So you’ve been in business a few years and finally reaping some rewards.

When you first started out, money was tight so you created your own website just to get started.

Shoot you may even maintained it a little bit, but when was the last time you actually looked at it?

I mean, REALLY looked at it…

Well if it’s been awhile then it’s time to block some time out on your calendar next week (because we already know this week is full) to really take a look at your website.

I would suggest blocking out at least 60 minutes to start.

Now to get started here are a few things to be looking out for:

Is the information still relevant?

It's easy for small business owners to overlook the importance of keeping their website information up-to-date. However, in today's fast-paced digital world, having current and relevant content on your site is crucial for attracting and retaining customers. Think about it - would you trust a business that still has outdated contact information or old product listings on their website?

Regularly refreshing the content on your website not only helps build credibility with your audience but also improves your search engine rankings. By updating blog posts, adding new testimonials, and showcasing current projects, you show potential customers that you are actively engaged in your business. So take a moment to review your website today - make sure the information reflects who you are now, not who you were last year.

Do you have outdated products still showing up?

As a small business owner, having outdated products still showing up on your website can be a major turn-off for potential customers. Imagine stumbling upon a product that is no longer available or relevant - the frustration is real! Not only does it create confusion, but it also reflects poorly on your brand's credibility. In today's fast-paced digital world, keeping your website up-to-date is crucial for maintaining customer trust and interest.

Take the time to review and update your product listings regularly to ensure that only current offerings are featured on your site. By showcasing your latest products and services, you not only attract new customers but also retain existing ones. Remember, first impressions matter in the online realm, and having outdated content can make you lose out on valuable opportunities.

Does the branding still match up?

As a small business owner, it's crucial to ensure that your website branding aligns seamlessly with your other marketing materials. Consistency across all platforms establishes a strong brand identity and builds trust with your audience. Take a critical look at your logo, colors, fonts, and messaging to see if they still accurately represent your business values and mission.

In today's fast-evolving digital landscape, staying relevant is key to attracting and retaining customers. Your website is often the first point of contact for potential customers, so make sure it reflects the quality and professionalism of your products or services. Remember, maintaining consistency in branding not only enhances brand recognition but also reinforces credibility in the eyes of consumers.

So how do you think your website is going to uphold? Do you think it’s in a good place?

If yes, then pat yourself on the back and congratulate yourself. You are doing the dame thing!

If no, then block off that time next week to take a closer look at your digital storefront.

If you’re in a good place, here are a few more things to be looking out for.

Are your pages loading slow?

If you're a small business owner looking to attract more customers online, one issue you can't afford to overlook is slow page loading times. In today's fast-paced digital world, users expect websites to load quickly and efficiently. Slow-loading pages can drive potential customers away and harm your business's reputation.

A key factor affecting page speed is the size of images and videos on your website. Compressing large files can significantly decrease loading times without compromising quality. Additionally, minimizing the use of plugins and unnecessary scripts can streamline your website's code and make it more efficient. By taking these steps, you can ensure that visitors have a smooth browsing experience and are more likely to stay on your site longer, ultimately leading to increased conversions and sales.

Review your navigation. 

As a small business owner, reviewing your website's navigation is crucial to ensure a seamless user experience. With limited time and resources, focusing on simplifying the navigation can significantly impact how visitors engage with your site. Take a step back and assess if the menu items are clear and easily accessible, making it effortless for users to find what they are looking for.

Consider implementing dropdown menus or categorizing products/services to streamline the navigation process further. By organizing content logically and reducing clutter, you create a more user-friendly experience that encourages visitors to explore your site further. Remember, a well-thought-out navigation structure not only enhances usability but also reflects positively on your brand image – showing that you value customer satisfaction and attention to detail in all aspects of your business.

Evaluate your Call To Actions (CTAs)

When it comes to CTAs on your website, think like a small business owner aiming for big results. Analyze each CTA button with a critical eye - are they clear and compelling enough to prompt action? Remember, a website refresh isn't just about aesthetics but also optimizing the user journey. Experiment with different placements and wording to see what resonates best with your audience.

Consider the psychology behind CTAs - colors, placement, and language can make a significant difference in conversion rates. Don't be afraid to test and adjust your CTAs regularly to keep them relevant and effective. A well-crafted CTA is like a magnet that pulls visitors deeper into your ecosystem, so invest time in perfecting this essential element of your website strategy.

So I’ve given you a few things to review. If this seems overwhelming then break it up. You should be looking at your website at least once a month. If you have a lot of traffic or have an e-commerce store you should be paying close attention to these topics more frequently, like once a week or bi-weekly. Once you’re in a good place it won’t be as bad.

Ready to give your website a checkup? The Wright UX offers comprehensive website audits to help you determine if it's time for a refresh. Whether you need to update content, improve navigation, or enhance branding, our team can guide you through the process. Plus, we offer website maintenance services for small business owners who don't have the time to do it themselves. Schedule your audit today and take the first step toward a more effective online presence!