Opinion
Jamie Brown of Archant Local Impact: Making your website work for you
Jamie Brown, from the Archant learning and development team. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY - Credit: Copyright: Archant 2018
It might be an unpopular opinion, but you really do need a website, says Jamie Brown of Archant's 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.
MORE: In digital marketing, knowing your product is key 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.
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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
MORE: This is the secret to the best content marketing
• 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 in the hands of 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
