A considered website that contains the right information for your customers will automatically repel people you don’t want to work with and attract more of your dream customers. 

The most effective websites are a combination of good design, considered and relevant content and good SEO practises.

There are many factors that go into creating a good website:

Visually appealing

Let’s face it – us humans are visual creatures. How many times have you gone onto a website only to make a hasty retreat  seconds later because of the way it looks?

Maybe it‘s cluttered and overwhelms you, maybe it looks old fashioned; whatever the reason, if it doesn’t instantly appeal to you then you won’t want to stay.

On the other hand, a well designed website that uses eye-catching images and fonts will entice your customers into reading.

Content

Following on from the above point, once you’ve caught someone’s attention, you want them to stay on your website. If your message isn’t clear and resonates with someone, then it won’t matter how good your website looks; they’ll still leave. 

When creating content for your website always write with your target customer in mind and include:

• Language your customers are familiar with
• Solve customer problems
• Show them the benefits and offer them value

Easy to use

Think of your customers journey. Make it super easy for them to use your website. Give them the right information at the right time to help them make a decision. 

If someone’s not able to find the information they are looking for easily or buy something quickly then they’ll get frustrated and be less inclined to stay and complete the intended action.

SEO

A website with good SEO practises built in behind the scenes will rank higher organically. You’ll show higher up the search engines page and attract buyers that are specifically looking for your product / service. 

Things to build in behind the scenes include;

• Title tags
• Optimised for mobile and voice search
• Optimised for visually impaired readers 
• Title tags and meta descriptions
• Internal links and backlinks
• Align content with search intent
• Alt text for images
• Keyword usage

Functionality

A website that doesn’t work properly will frustrate your readers. If a button doesn’t work as intended then someone will be more likely to give up and look for an alternative that’s easier.

Make sure all of your website functions as intended and works on mobiles, tablets and desktops.

Call to actions

A clear call to action, whether it’s to make an online sale or fill out a form is essential.

Make it easy to action and quick.

If a button is hidden away or not instantly visible you’ll lose an opportunity for your customer to make the next step.