Business: Setting up a website is easier than ever

PUBLISHED: 13:00 23 March 2019 | UPDATED: 17:22 26 March 2019

Jamie Brown

Jamie Brown, from the Archant learning and development team. Photo: Denise Bradley

Archant

Archant Local Impact

Often when speaking about digital I get asked the question “Do I really need a website? Can’t I just use Google listings and Facebook?” My answer is always the same and almost always unpopular.

I think that today a serious business needs a website.

A business does need Google listings and social media… don’t get me wrong here. But when those platforms can change the way your business appears at a moment’s notice you can’t seriously rely on them to be your ‘home’ online.

Facebook changed its algorithm just over a year ago and the resulting change dented the visibility of small businesses that relied upon it as their only route to market.

Getting a website for your business is easier than ever… I am tripping over ads all the time. Businesses on TV, Youtube and social media are screaming at me to build my own website. The options are endless.

Mention on a business chat room or forum that you want a website and I’m sure you will have many offers of help.

Here are few pointers:

• Know exactly what you want your website for before you ask for a quote/start building, What do you want your potential customers to be able to do – buy online, book a test drive or reserve a table?

• Know exactly what you want the website to be found for.

It’s easier (and cheaper) for a web designer to build a site with your industry, search terms, type of content in mind at the outset rather than have to change it or modify it after launch

• Mobile first

When looking at designs/layouts, look at the mobile view first… too many of your customers use a mobile phone for it not to be your ‘default’ view

• Go Pro

If in any doubt go with a reputable web design agency who can show you a portfolio of work from businesses like you… some things just shouldn’t be left to mates from the pub.

We have some experience in this area; we’ve got quite good at making websites that work for businesses – websites that drive results. If you want to know more, contact us on 03331 365390 or email hello@archantlocalimpact.co.uk