Today, Google is the first and last word in all thing’s web. They have access to the “raw” world-wide data in everything web. The hard fact is 81% of retail shoppers conduct online research before buying. The overwhelming majority of retail consumers start their journey with online research. If your business ranks in the top 15 for searches pertaining to your product, your website is often the first interaction potential customers have with your brand. A well-designed website not only captures attention but also builds trust and encourages engagement.
At Forge Media, we understand that creating a great website goes beyond aesthetics; it requires a strategic approach that encompasses user experience, functionality, and effective marketing practices.
Below are the key elements for making your website stand out and should not be neglected. Considering these when creating and managing your site will boost your site’s impressions and click through rate, leading to a higher customer engagement rate.
User experience (UX) is paramount when it comes to web design. When people enter your website (because IF you showed up in a web search), if designed correctly, your audience will be compelled to stay and browse your site. A great website is intuitive and easy to navigate, ensuring that visitors can find the information they need quickly and effortlessly. Implementing a clear hierarchy of information, logical navigation, and mobile-responsive design are essential components. As mobile browsing continues to rise, a website optimized for various devices will enhance user satisfaction and engagement.
Content is the backbone of your website. It should be relevant, informative, and engaging to your target audience. High-quality content not only helps establish your brand as an authority in your industry but also plays a crucial role in search engine optimization (SEO). Incorporating a mix of text, images, and videos can make your content more appealing. Regularly updating your content and including a blog section can further boost your SEO and keep your audience coming back for more.
A beautiful website is of little value if it cannot be found. Implementing effective SEO practices is essential for increasing your site’s visibility on search engines. This includes optimizing title tags, meta descriptions, and incorporating relevant keywords throughout your content. Additionally, a focus on page speed, mobile-friendliness, and quality backlinks can significantly improve your website’s ranking, ultimately driving organic traffic. A website has little value if it cannot be found by shoppers. Build it and they will come? Not hardly! A business must be proactive and invest in allowing their website to be found in web searches.
Every great website should guide visitors toward taking specific actions, whether that’s signing up for a newsletter, making a purchase, or contacting your business. Clear and compelling calls to action (CTAs) are essential for converting visitors into leads or customers. Position these strategically throughout your site, ensuring they stand out and are easy to find.
Building trust with your audience is crucial. Incorporate elements that establish credibility, such as customer testimonials, case studies, industry certifications, and secure payment gateways. A professional design, clear contact information, and a well-crafted “About Us” page can further enhance your brand’s trustworthiness.
In the fast-paced world we live in today, users expect websites to load quickly. A delay of just a few seconds can lead to high bounce rates and lost opportunities. Optimizing images, reducing server response times, and utilizing browser caching are effective ways to enhance your website’s performance. Tools like Google PageSpeed Insights can help you identify areas for improvement.
Finally, a great website is never truly “finished.” Utilizing analytics tools allows you to track visitor behavior, conversion rates, and other key performance indicators. This data provides invaluable insights that can inform future design and content strategies. Regularly reviewing and updating your website based on user feedback and analytics will ensure it remains relevant and effective.
Creating a great website is a multifaceted endeavor that combines design, content, SEO, and user experience. At Forge Media, we have decades of experience in marketing and advertising spanning back to a time before there was even a thing called “internet”. With experience in all forms of advertising, we understand the importance of building high-quality websites tailored to your business needs, ensuring a seamless blend of aesthetics and functionality. By focusing on these key elements, you can create a website that not only attracts visitors but also converts them into loyal customers. If you’re ready to elevate your online presence, contact us today to learn how we can help you achieve your goals.