As a modern-day Small to Mid-size Business Owner, you should already understand the importance of having an effective website for growing your brand and business. Studies show that 81 percent of customers perform online research before making a purchase and 72% say a Google search is their primary method of finding local businesses. Not having a website means not showing up on the search engine results page. And nowadays, just having a website isn’t enough; your website must be fully responsive so it works seamlessly on all devices, be mobile-friendly, have an attractive design, be easy and quick to navigate and be properly optimized to increase the likelihood of appearing at the top of Google’s results (Ten Quick Tips for Improving your Local SEO).

If you already have a website, you may not see the value in redesigning in, but if it wasn’t built with the correct priorities in mind – you probably need it. Many of your potential customers’ first impression of your company will be based on their experience with your website.

If you’re still on the fence about investing in a website redesign, I compiled some reasons you should go for it!

Outdated Websites Are Inefficient

If you don’t think your website is nice to look at, no one else will. A good website efficiently communicates with potential customers, letting them know what your brand and company is all about – and doing so in an engaging way. Remember, your website is your customers’ first impression! Is your website looking out of date or old? Modern websites incorporate clean and simple designs, and adhere to the more up-to-date technology. In a split second, your website lets your clients know if you’re relevant or obsolete. If you think this doesn’t affect their purchasing behaviors, think again…

A Good Design Turns Leads to Conversions

A beautiful website leaves a lasting impression. On average, a customer will take 10 seconds to decide whether or not they like your website and want to continue browsing it. Here are some statistics to consider: 38% of visitors will stop engaging with your website if the layout is unappealing and 48% of website visitors will judge the credibility of your business based on the website’s design. This means that having a visually-pleasing website isn’t just nice to look at, it directly affects the number of leads that turn into paying customers.

Websites Must be Responsive & Easy to Navigate

What is the User Experience like on your website? Will visitors be able to find what they need in a few clicks? Is your tab menu simple and easy to understand? Online users today expect a pleasant, seamless experience. If your website and navigation are built following old best practices, you’re losing valuable traffic. According to Google, nearly 75% of users prefer going on a mobile-friendly site; not to mention, 50% of people said that even if they like a business, they will be less inclined to visit as often if the website is not mobile-friendly.

Consistency in Content Marketing is Key

In today’s digital world, you’re probably juggling a lot of platforms both online and offline. It can feel overwhelming managing your brand’s communications across a website, online ads, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, etc. (Why Content Marketing Needs To Be Your New Priority) However, it’s important to provide potential customers with a consistent branding of your business, regardless of the platform you’re communicating on. It’s confusing for them to see a design or message in a Facebook post or Marketing Email and something drastically different on your website. You have to build website content that supports any online and offline marketing efforts you utilize (Using Physical Promotional Products in an Increasingly Digital World).

Website Security Matters More Than You Think

An unsecured website is terrible for business, regardless of the industry or market. Customers are more aware and concerned about their security online and will not take action on a website they see is unsecured. Other than that, you need to secure your website because your SEO ranking on search engines will be affected if your website is marked insecure without SSL. Even if people find your website through other means, don’t forget – they know whether or not it is secure, and will proceed accordingly. Another thing to keep in mind here is that 43% of cyber-attacks are actually aimed at small businesses!

Your website serves as the center and basis of your marketing efforts. It’s a critical element when it comes to driving your revenue up and achieving your business objectives. That’s why it’s vital to make sure it is always updated, well-maintained and provides a seamless user experience. If you have questions or aren’t sure what your website needs, let us know – our Web Development Team would love to help!