In a world dominated by, quick touch and search the internet is the place for your business to be found.
Need a dog groomer near you? Google it. Need a roofer to give an estimate? Google it. Access to the world's information with the touch of a keystroke has made the internet the world's first go-to for seeking out information and checking out businesses. Knowing that the world will go to the internet to find a business, it is no surprise that business start-ups think the first thing they have to do to build their businesses and profit line is to quickly get a website up and running. But consider this: If you build it, do they come?
The simple answer is maybe. The long-term more strategic answer is without the work and strategies in place to build a productive business, they won’t stay or bring their friends.
5 key things to consider before you build a website.
1. A name and a plan.
The name does not have to be set in stone. Website designers and strategy firms are not business plan firms. While this step does not require loads of work, it is a necessity to make some creative decisions. Your domain name for your website will have to do more than just sound good. Part of your creative process will be to check available domain names as you brainstorm possible names. You do not have to rush to register the exact name as what you want your website to be, but it will make it simpler for people to find you if the names are the same. Aim for an original name that will ensure you are able to purchase a .com domain without peculiar spellings. Don't let this hang you up. Having options that aren't perfect is better than not having a name at all.
2. Clear goals.
In all likelihood, if you are ready to build a website, you have already fleshed out your plan for the website. It is important to note and make sure you have a very clear and concise idea of what you want your website to achieve. What is the goal of your website and business? Sell products, Offer services, Share information, Book appointments? What do you want people to do to make you money? The very first thing that should be clear on your website is what you offer and why people should hire/book you. With a product for sale business, the goal is to have them click the add to cart button. Having this step clearly mapped out will help to make sure you are able to complete the other steps needed to launch a successful website.
3. Design ideas.
This does not mean that you have to have it all drawn out, but take some time to consider what are you drawn to that is authentically representative of you. Don't fall into the trap of recreating someone else's flashy design. Think of colors and styles you find yourself navigating toward. An effective and successful website has a design that is intuitive because someone did the strategic work in the design process to ensure the site meets the expectations and needs of the visitors. When it comes to website design, you have three options. You can hire a web designer to create something that meets your specifications, build it yourself using templates and an easy-to-use design interface, or learn web design and build a website from the ground up.
“When you reach the final stages for the design of your site, whether you are creating it yourself or hiring someone to follow your vision, remember the simple real estate slogan. Location. Location. Location. Always make sure your call to action is clear and above the fold.”
4. Content and verbiage.
On every website, someone has drafted the words on the websites you visit. You do not have to be an English major to create engaging content, remember you are the expert for your business. Designers are only there to help modify and transform the content that will bring value. If writing is not your thing, you can reach out to the experts at K. Cradley and Company. They will take the time to learn your plan, and goals and cultivate language that will drive site visitors to follow through on your call to action.
5. Digital marketing plan.
With a website design and launch, there will never be a set it and forget it. That is the most dangerous approach you can have for your business and website. You will learn how hard it can be to have people check out your website. That is where the importance of marketing comes into play. If you build it, it does not mean they will come. Stop that thinking. So much goes into ensuring your website reaches people from the SEO to Google My Business, social media profiles, social outreach, and your own networking strategy that will create awareness of your website and drive traffic your way. Before anyone can buy from you, they have to first find your website first.
At K. Cradley and Company, we are dedicated to empowering businesses as they take the step to build and promote their business online. If at any point during the development of your website, you find yourself in need of assistance, whether it be web design, copy work, or digital management and marketing, our experienced team leaders are available. Schedule a discovery call with us today, to see how we can partner to optimize your online presence.