10 ways a modern website can help your business grow!
For a long time most SME websites were nothing more than an online company brochure; a feature-rich website being beyond the budget of the average SME. Unfortunately this poor experience with static websites has left many business owners feeling a bit ‘meh’ about the supposed benefits of investing in a website. But times have changed.
Today, with the rise of cost-effective all-in-one platforms like Squarespace, there is no reason an SME cannot enjoy the benefits of a feature-rich website. Additionally, these all-in-one platforms are often much easier to use, meaning businesses can update their website in house and regularly - and that is fundamental for a website that fires up business growth.
Below I have listed 10+1 ways a well-designed, modern website can positively impact your business. Times have truly changed.
A modern well-designed website can help you:
1. Charge what you're worth
A well-designed website with fresh content enhances your credibility by showcasing authoritative blog posts, testimonials, and clear explanations of the value you bring to your clients. The design should also visually reinforce your brand’s value. When your website communicates your expertise effectively, it becomes easier to charge what you’re worth.
2. Attract more high-quality leads
By regularly updating your website with quality content tailored to your ideal clients, you’ll increase your chances of being found by search engines, and by these ideal clients. Well-targeted content answers common questions from potential clients, making it more likely that the right audience will find you. Share your content via social media, newsletters, and even Google Ads to drive traffic and attract high-quality leads.
3. Boost sales efficiency through automation
Using features like FAQs, forms, and appointment booking tools, you can pre-qualify leads and gather essential information upfront. Prospects who are well-informed about your offerings and have had their preliminary questions answered are more likely to be serious leads. Well-thought-out forms and booking tools allow you to use your time more effectively during sales calls.
4. Sell products and services online directly
Selling products or services online has never been easier. Platforms like Shopify or e-commerce solutions built into Squarespace allow you to set up an online shop with minimal hassle.
Business-specific e-commerce solutions for restaurants or hotel bookings, for example, also easily allow for e-commerce functionality. For example, Squarespace integrates with platforms like Tock for restaurant bookings. Squarespace also integrates with the appointment scheduling software, Acuity, so business from spas through coaches to BTB companies like myself can ‘protect their time, and maximise income’ by allowing clients to schedule and pay online.
As online sales continue to grow—predicted to rise from US$5 trillion in 2022 to US$8 trillion by 2028—it’s crucial to make sure you’re making it as easy as possible for people to buy your service or product.
Ready to set up an online store? Get in touch for e-commerce web design solutions.
5. Retain clients
An active, informative, and engaging website helps keep your existing clients loyal. Through loyalty programs, email marketing, or social media, you can encourage clients to visit your website regularly. Case studies, testimonials and updates about new products or services help reassure clients that they are in good hands and that there’s no reason to look elsewhere.
6. Upsell to current clients
It’s far easier to upsell to an existing client than to convert a new lead. Use your website to cross-sell, upsell, or resell products and services. For instance, consider adding a ‘related products‘ section or offering promotions for existing clients who purchase new services.
7. Make it easier to win client referrals
People make referrals because they want to share a good experience with their friends and community, but also (mainly) because they want to look good. Since a referral will probably drive your client’s friends to your website for a preliminary check, your client is not going to make that referral if your website looks horrible and out of date. A modern, well designed website makes it easier for clients to refer you - and look good at the same time.
8. Improve recruitment
Your website plays a key role in attracting top talent. Job seekers will likely visit your site before applying, so keeping your website up-to-date and showcasing what makes your company a great place to work is crucial. Highlight company culture, employee benefits, and recent accomplishments to make a strong impression.
9. Increase staff retention and motivation
Your website isn’t just a tool for external audiences; it can also improve internal communication and staff motivation. Use private, member-only sections of the site to communicate company news, sustainability initiatives, CSR values or even to organise social events. Improve efficiency and staff morale with online training with a Learning Management System. Keeping staff informed, engaged and motivated helps build a positive work environment and increases retention.
10. Build relationships with the community, media, and investors
An easy-to-update website allows you to publish news and share it with your local community, media outlets, or potential investors. Strong community relations can be essential for businesses looking to future recruitment, planning approvals, or partnerships.
and a bonus benefit:
11. Make data-driven decisions with analytics
To make the most of your website, it’s vital to set up and monitor analytics. By tracking visitor behaviour, you can make informed decisions about your marketing strategies. Analytics tools allow you to see which content is performing well, where your traffic is coming from, and how different campaigns are resonating with your audience. You can also use A/B testing and targeted advertising to optimise your services and products.
Conclusion
Now that you understand what a well-designed website can do for your business, I hope you’ll feel happier investing in one. You should also now feel more confident asking your web designer for the functionality you need for a website designed for growth.
While keeping your website updated requires ongoing planning and work, a growth-optimized site will amplify your input, giving your a business machine that makes that effort very, very worthwhile.
Is your website helping your business grow?
If you suspect your website could be working harder for you, I offer website reviews and ongoing website and marketing support for a small number of clients each month. You can review my service list for more details.
Katie McGregor is the founder of Blaze Marketing Solutions & Web Services and has over 30 years of marketing experience, helping businesses strengthen their online presence and make their marketing work harder to build their business.