Top 5 Website Mistakes of 2016

When people think about the design of a website, colors, fonts, and images often come to mind first. Many huge design mistakes are often a result of people not realizing how large of an impact a site’s design has on their business. While typeface and appealing visuals are important parts of a site’s design, we’ve compiled a list of some of the common design mistakes present in many sites up today.

1. No Alternative Options

Most websites only give 2 options to people viewing – Buy Now or Go Away. The modern consumer wants more, and many company websites forget to offer this. Websites that are not giving alternative options are at a major disadvantage than websites offering some educational content.

Creating readily-available content for your audience will allow them to begin their Buyer’s Journey, while responding to comments on your content can allow you to connect with your readers and advise them on your industry.

A simple blog or downloadable value added content piece will not only give your possible consumer more options and enable them to stay on your website longer, but it will give your company credibility as a Thought Leader in the industry. We’re not the only ones who believe that extra push in options is a good idea.

People want to buy from an expert, and by giving your viewers more options and information about your product or service – you are now that expert.

2. Not Built Into Your Website Objectives

We’ve touched on Website Objectives before, and how important they are as the reasoning behind wanting a website. Websites are no longer meant to be just pretty but are meant to be the forefront of your business and your top salesperson. Ignoring your real website objectives can lead to a major website mistake.

Real website objectives truly depend on your company and industry – however, there are some major things that should not be ignored when building a website.

Credibility – Is the website you’re building establishing credibility in your industry and to your consumers?

Increasing Sales and Leads – Are you creating a website to just have a website? Or are you creating a website to increase your sales and leads?

Showcase New Career Opportunities – Will your new website attract potential employees and demonstrate the culture present at your company?

Expanding Your Business – Is your new website showcasing your growing and expanding business?

3. Lack of Profile

People want to work with real people, someone they can identify with. However, many websites lack a true profile. People want to see your company, your employees, your previous work – not just what you sell. While your website should obviously include your services, not adding that personal touch is a common website mistake.

Your About Us page is likely one of the most visited and seen pages on your site and reflects the type of company you own. Always think of your customers first – what would they want to know? This is a great way to not only highlight your expertise but your passion for the industry. Be sure to give a personality to your profile; avoid that stock photography and show your real employees in their real environments. This is beneficial not only in connecting with potential clients but also in creating an image that will attract talent interested in working with your company.

4. Lack of Reviews

Not only do people want to see they are working with real humans, but they want to see other people’s experiences with your company. Reviews from your previous clients and testimonials on your website are one of the most important reasons as to why someone might buy. While Thought Leadership is very effective in gaining your possible consumer’s trust, having real testimonials can be just as effective. If you’re not including this on your website, not only are you making another common website mistake, but you could also be negatively affecting your sales.

5. No Marketing Techniques

Regardless of whether or not you are willing to spend money on marketing campaigns, marketing should always be in the forefront of your mind when developing a website. A great website is only as good as its marketing; a website means nothing if no one is going to see it.

SEO Optimization
While writing your content, you should be aware of what keywords you might be ranking for. If your website is SEO Optimized that means you have a better chance of being on that first, sweet page of Google search results.

Social Media
Are you using social media platforms for your business? If the answer is yes, you should have up to date social media buttons and integration on your website. Not only that but if you are posting blogs be sure to include social sharing buttons on your content as well. Simple things like this in web design can make a huge difference in your marketing techniques.

If you have no social media platforms set up for your business – now is the time! Platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, Yelp!, and Twitter can be great assets to any company. When setting up, be sure your social portfolio reflects your company properly; include your logo, contact information, and mission statements. Social media not only helps in marketing but allows you to connect with your fans and provide information easily. Thinking about redesigning your website to include these elements and maybe a few other custom adjustments? Check out our Website Cost Calculator to estimate the costs of your re-imagined website.