When it comes to 21st century business, having a website is a must. Your customers want to be able to find information quickly and easily, and for that, online is the way to go. As far as the look, feel and capabilities of your site go, the options are almost endless. Here are a few tips to help you decide what your company’s website needs.
What do you want your site to achieve?
Before you hire a designer, you need to know exactly what features your website needs to have. If your site is just basic info about your company, a one or two page site with a brief description, contact details and postal and/or business address will suffice.
If you want clients to be able to interact a little more, or receive regular updates, newsletters etc, consider a website with a subscribe feature. This also gives you a database for marketing, and lets you know what your clients need and expect from you as a company.
If you sell a product, whether physical or digital content, it may be worth looking at an ecommerce website design. A website is a great way to market your company and advertise your products, but not everyone who visits your website will visit your physical store. Being able to buy online is much more convenient, and if the opportunity is there, they may well take it.
Web Design Company, Freelancer or DIY?
Decide who you’re going to hire to design, create and maintain your website. Don’t tie yourself to either one right away, or you may be missing out on some of the best website designs. If you or your IT guy are able to maintain and update your site, go with a freelancer to help you with the design and get everything set up.
If you need someone to maintain and/or host your site, a web design company may be better, as they will be more likely to provide reliable ongoing service and support.
These aren’t your only options though. Programs like WordPress make it relatively easy for anyone with reasonable computer skills to create a website using one of about 3000 templates.
Incorporate Social Media
Social media accounts for your business could be just as valuable as, if not more than, a good website. Be sure to link to your website when you post on social media, and share what you post on your site via social media.
Should Your Website Have a Blog?
Some business models may not be suited to a blog, but for most, a blog can be great for business. Interesting, informative blogs posted on a regular basis will generate a following. That following will keep customers and attract new ones.
Once you’ve settled on a design for your site and found a web designer who works well with your company, set up your site and keep it up to date. Keeping in touch with your clients will keep them happy.