How a high quality website is better for your business

Let me tell you a story. Remember that time you were craving the perfect Sunday roast? You Googled “best pubs near Yeovil,” scrolled through endless websites with blurry photos and outdated menus, and finally gave up in frustration, settling for a questionable takeaway instead? Yeah, me too. That’s the power (or lack thereof) of a bad website.

In today’s digital age, your website is your online storefront, your digital handshake, and your chance to make a lasting impression. In a world saturated with websites, a high-quality one isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s a necessity.

So, grab a cuppa, Yeovil business owners, because in this blog post, we’re diving deep into the world of websites. We’ll explore what makes a website high-quality, discuss the latest trends, answer your burning questions, and share some expert tips to ensure your website isn’t the reason you’re missing out on customers.

Website 101 – From Humble Beginnings to Business Powerhouse

What is a website?

Simply put, a website is a collection of web pages accessible through the internet. It’s your online space to showcase your business, sell products or services, and connect with customers.

The first website, launched in 1989, was a basic text-only affair. But things evolved rapidly. Images, multimedia, and interactive features became commonplace, and websites transformed into powerful marketing and communication tools.

Why is a high-quality website important?

Here’s the harsh truth: in 2024, a bad website reflects poorly on your business. It screams “unprofessional” and sends potential customers running for the hills (or should I say, other websites!). Here’s why a high-quality website matters:

First Impressions Matter

Your website is often the first interaction potential customers have with your business. A visually appealing, user-friendly website creates a positive first impression and builds trust.

Search Engine Optimisation (SEO)

A well optimised website ranks higher in search results, making it easier for potential customers to find you online.

Conversions

A high-quality website converts visitors into paying customers. This can be achieved through clear calls to action, informative content, and a smooth user experience.

Brand Building

Your website is an extension of your brand. A well-designed website that reflects your brand values strengthens brand recognition and loyalty.

The Future for your website

The world of websites and web design is constantly evolving. Here are some things to keep your eye on:

Mobile-First Design

With most internet traffic coming from mobile devices, a website that looks and functions flawlessly on smartphones and tablets is crucial. This has been a hot topic for many years now with most websites moving with the times.

Voice Search Optimisation

As voice assistants like Siri and Alexa become more popular, websites need to be optimized for voice search queries.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

AI-powered chatbots and personalised content recommendations are transforming the way users interact with websites. This is going to effect the way we search, and in turn how we tackle web design & SEO.

Security

Data security is paramount. Secure websites using HTTPS encryption and implement strong password policies. On a deeper level, the quality of the code that make sup your website is also important in keeping your website secure and in turn, your customers data.

Your Website Success Kit

Based on my years of experience navigating the wonderful (and sometimes frustrating) world of web design, here are some practical tips to ensure your Yeovil business website stands out against the competition.

Content is King (and Queen)

High-quality, informative content is the backbone of any successful website. Write engaging blog posts, create informative product descriptions, and showcase your expertise. Remember, you’re not just selling products, you’re building trust and relationships with potential customers. I can’t stress this enough just how important your websites content really is.

KISS – Keep It Simple Stupid

Don’t overwhelm visitors with complex navigation or cluttered layouts. Make your website easy to navigate with clear menus, concise information, and high-quality graphics and photos. Think “user-friendly” first and foremost and your customers are more likely to engage, convert and even return.

Use good images

High-resolution, professional-looking images are essential. They capture attention, showcase your products or services, and just make your website look better. I’m sure you’ve seen examples showcasing the difference and just how the good quality photography makes such a difference. Don’t forget, using stock photography with your website isn’t a complete no-go and gives you an opportunity to use some great, high-quality photos.

Mobile Matters, a Lot

As mentioned earlier, mobile-first design is crucial. Ensure your website displays flawlessly on all devices, from desktop computers to smartphones. Test it yourself and use responsive design tools to guarantee a seamless mobile experience. A great example of this is a conversation I had with one our our recent clients. There main traffic source was in fact mobile (Who’d have thought it) but the conversion rates weren’t up to scratch. This was because they had put their websites mobile usability lower down the list than it should have been.

SEO is your friend

Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) helps potential customers find your website. Optimise your website content with relevant keywords, meta descriptions, and internal linking. While it’s a complex topic, there are plenty of beginner-friendly resources available online to get you started. While thinking of SEO, remember, write your content for humans!

Attention grabbing calls to action

Tell visitors what you want them to do next! Whether it’s “Contact Us,” “Buy Now,” or “Subscribe to our Newsletter,” use clear and compelling calls to action throughout your website to feed the user down the funnel.

Data, data, data!

Free analytics tools like Google Analytics provide valuable insights into website traffic, user behavior, and conversion rates. Use this data to understand how visitors interact with your website and make data-driven decisions to improve its effectiveness. Again, this can be a complex topic but there are many guides out there to explain the basics and beyond.

Local first

If you’re a Yeovil-based business, shout it from the rooftops (well, at least online)! Optimise your website for local search by including your location in your website content and claiming your Google My Business listing for example. We love the fact that we can access information and buy pretty much anything from anywhere around the world instantly… but in recent years, people are looking for more “Authenticity”.

Share the knowledge

A regularly updated blog is a fantastic way to attract new visitors, establish yourself as an industry expert, and improve your SEO. Share interesting industry news, offer helpful tips related to your services, and showcase your company culture through blog posts. Writing articles for your website can be time consuming, I know, I’m doing it now. You may not have the man-power to be able to do this, but there are always options. You can outsource content writing and anything else related to your website for that matter.

What next?

By following these tips and embracing the importance of a high-quality website, you’re well on your way to establishing a powerful online presence for your Somerset business. Remember, your website is a valuable asset, not just a digital brochure.

What are you waiting for?

Invest in your website, create a user-friendly, informative, and beautiful website, and watch your business grow.

Do you have any questions about websites or digital marketing for Yeovil businesses? get in touch, and let’s chat!

Additionally, if you’re looking for a Yeovil web design agency to help you create a new website, feel free to reach out to me.

Got questions?

Here’s some common ones we get frequently.

• Do I need a fancy website design agency?

  Not necessarily! While professional web design services offer incredible benefits, there are also user-friendly website builders like WordPress that allow you to create a decent website yourself. However, if you lack the time or skills, a Yeovil web design agency can create a website tailored to your specific needs.

• How much does a website cost?

  Costs vary depending on the complexity of your website and the services you choose. A basic website builder plan can be affordable, while a fully customised website from a web design agency will cost more.

• How often should I update my website?

  Regularly updating your website with fresh content shows you’re active and engaged. Aim to update content like blog posts and product information a few times a month.

• Can I build my website myself using website builders?

  Website builders like Wix and Squarespace offer user-friendly templates and tools. However, they may lack the customization options and SEO capabilities offered by professional web development. If you have basic technical knowledge, these platforms can be a good starting point. But for a truly impactful website, consider working with a Yeovil web design agency.