There’s a well-known comic which says “On the internet, no-one knows you’re a dog”. This comic is many years old now, but it still holds as true today as it did when it was first published. Anyone can put up a website, and this is both a blessing and a curse. As a small business owner, you can make yourself look just as accomplished as your larger competitors, and your customers don’t have to know you’re operating out of your garage. However, consumers are becoming increasingly cynical, and increasingly demanding when it comes to the quality and content of the websites that they use. If you want to ensure that your customers trust your website, then it must be as professional looking as possible.
The good news is that there are a lot of great website design companies in the UK. If you are looking for a web design agency in London then you should not have too many problems finding one that can meet your needs. Many of the best design agencies offer a full design service that includes SEO and content creation, as well as social media marketing.
Identify Your Audience
A good web design company will work with you to identify your target demographic, and will develop a website that appeals to them. This could mean a clear, simple layout, something more bright and bold, or something with lots of video content and endless scrolling. There is no one perfect design, it takes research to figure out what each demographic likes. Once you have an understanding of what your visitors want, you can tailor more than just the look and feel of the website – considering things like calls to action, content forms, and other ways of engaging your visitors.
Content Comes First
One thing is universal, however – your website must have great copy, and that copy must be carefully proofread. Spelling mistakes could cost you a lot of money in lost sales , so don’t take chances on the quality of your content. If you aren’t a professional writer, it makes sense to outsource your content creation to someone who is. They will be able to write content that entertains and informs your visitors, and that will have them eager to come back for more. Be sure to provide your contact details on the website, too. This will reassure consumers that you are a real business, and that there is someone to complain to if things go wrong.
Designers such as www.britishwebsites.co.uk are a good choice for business owners who are looking for a company that understands British consumers, and has the local knowledge necessary to develop great-looking websites that convert well.
Remember, your website is essentially your “store front” in the modern world. For many of your prospective customers, your website will be the first interaction they have ever had with your company. This means that you need to make it as professional as possible, but also that you need to make it appear genuine and approachable.