I see it all the time: sites that haven't been updated in years. Unfortunately, having a site that looks like it should stay in the 90's isn't good for business. Just like hairstyles, music, clothes, and other trends, websites also become dated over time. And even worse news, websites date faster than the aforementioned trends because the web is evolving at a much faster rate than fashion and pop culture. Here are five quick reasons why you should review your website and see if it might be time for a makeover.
1. Increase visitors, keep visitors longer, and boost sales efforts.Have you ever been to a site and get the feeling that the site has not been touched since it was launched? Just like leftovers that have been left in the fridge for too long, websites that haven't been updated in quite some time often turn-off your potential customers and stink with unprofessionalism. When a site hasn't been updated in ages, potential customers feel the need to find a different company to handle their needs. Unless the visitor came to your site due to some other stronger means than a Google search, i.e. a referral from a close friend or another form of advertisement, the visitor won't say on your site for long, thus causing you to lose out on a sale. Multiply this scenario a couple of times and you can see how this could hurt your bottom line. My rule of thumb is that if your website hasn't been updated in a year, it is time to look into making that happen.
2. Your website is partying like it is 1999, instead of 2009.Looking around at other sites on the web, do you see ones that seem to have a better flow, cleaner design, and a more updated feel? Chances are that these are the sites that your customers will gravitate toward as well. If your site is still grooving to an old design that is no longer seen on the web, it is time to get it updated. Could you take a fashion designer seriously if he/she was dressed as if they were smack dab in the middle of the disco years? Same with your website. How can your customers take you seriously if you don't take your business appearance seriously? Website styles and trends change yearly, so it is important in today's online marketing world that your site changes with these trends.
3. Your business has changed in the last two years.Most business owners can see that their business has changed from two years ago. Maybe they are offering a new service or product, their target market has changed, or they have changed locations. Whenever you make major changes to your business, all aspects of your business should be examined as well, including your marketing. Your website is your 24/7/365 salesman, billboard, and megaphone for your business; having your site do the same old song and dance, especially when that song and dance includes a new tune and move, isn't good for business. For instance, maybe you have decided to target a younger market. Does your site look like it is still targeting those that are middle-aged? If so, it is time for a makeover.
4. Be at the top of your game (and competition).
Businesses must always work to make sure they are different from their competitors in the eyes of their target market. Have a look-see at your competitors' websites. How do they compared to yours? Do you like your competitors' sites more than your own? This is a sign that your competitors have been working on differentiating themselves from you, and if you think their site is better, then they are doing something right. Don't let your competition get the better hand when it comes to online marketing through your website. If you feel like your website isn't up to par, it doesn't produce the Google ranking you were hoping for, or if you feel like the amount of interest from your site has decreased while your competitors prosper, then it is time to look at not only reviewing your website, but other marketing materials as well. Clients want to work with the best, so show them you are the best.
5. Don't be afraid of the cost or know-how about online marketing.So this might be a shameful plug, but often business owners are under a misconception that having a site redesigned to be better than their competition or to refocus their vision will cost a fortune. Most freelancers (like myself, eh hum) should take the time to look at your business from different angles, look at your needs from different angles, and provide the solution to your problem that is unique to you. A web designer/developer is worth their weight in gold. If you find a good one, they will not only produce a site that you can't wait to show your friends and your dog, but they will also advise and provide consultation on how to update the site yourself, inform you of exactly what you need without trying to sell you stuff you don't, and will overall make sure your business is not behind when it comes to your website and online marketing. Don't think that a web designer will just produce a site and be done, or will try to take you for everything you are worht; they often provide many more services that will help you become more informed and help your business grow.
So, maybe as a new year's resolution, or a weekend project, you should take the time to review your website and ask yourself, "Is it time for a makeover?" Not sure? Then contact a web designer who has the skills and knowledge to make your website shine for you. Oh, and by the way, my email is amber@amberturner.com. :D
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