Antz White at 77 Rockets tells us the essential features for a standout business website
Creating a business website that’s both stylish and effective doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re launching a new site or looking to level up your current one, these five essential elements can transform your online presence and help your business thrive. Let’s dive in!
1. Mobile-Friendly Design: Don’t Get Left Behind
It’s 2024 — if your website isn’t mobile-friendly, you’re missing out on a major audience. People shop and browse on their phones more than ever, so your site needs to be just as smooth on a mobile as on a desktop. A responsive design automatically adjusts to different screen sizes, ensuring a seamless user experience across devices.
A site that’s clunky or hard to navigate on a mobile will drive visitors away quickly. On the other hand, a well-optimised mobile site keeps users engaged and encourages them to convert into paying customers. If your website isn’t mobile-friendly yet, it’s time to make the switch!
2. SEO-Optimisation: Make Google Work For You
A great website means nothing if no one can find it. Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) ensures your site appears in search results when people are looking for businesses like yours. Think of it as putting your shop on the high street instead of a back alley.
To boost your SEO, focus on keywords, clear meta tags, and relevant, well-written content. Even simple tweaks like adding descriptive image alt texts can make a difference. By getting these basics right, you’ll increase traffic to your site and see a boost in sales.
3. Integrated Social Media: Strengthen Connections
Your website is the heart of your online presence, but social media is where people connect with your brand. Integrating social media into your site makes it easier for visitors to engage with you across platforms. Whether it’s displaying your latest Instagram posts or enabling article sharing on X, it’s all about extending your brand’s reach.
Add social buttons for quick wins, or go further by embedding live social feeds directly on your website. This keeps your site dynamic and current while showing off user-generated content such as customer reviews, which will build trust with new visitors.
4. High-Quality Imagery: Make It Pop
First impressions matter — a lot. A site with low-quality images can look outdated and dull. Professional, high-quality imagery makes your site look polished, engaging, and memorable.
Don’t have the budget for a photoshoot? Free resources like Unsplash offer professional photos and videos to instantly elevate your site’s look without breaking the bank. Visuals communicate faster than text, so an eye-catching design helps to make visitors stick around longer.
5. Live Chat and Contact Forms: Make It Easy To Reach You
Today’s customers expect quick responses. A live chat feature allows you to meet this expectation, giving visitors immediate access to answers, and boosting lead generation.
If live chat feels too intensive, a contact form is the next best thing. Easy-to-use forms let potential clients reach out for quotes, ask questions, or schedule services. Integrate booking or appointment tools to streamline further. The simpler it is to connect, the more likely customers are to choose your business over a competitor’s.
Bonus Tip: Blog for Engagement and Growth
A blog is a brilliant way to drive traffic and establish authority in your industry. It’s an opportunity for fresh, SEO-friendly content that search engines love, plus it lets you connect with your audience by sharing insights, tips, or behind-the-scenes stories.
Whether you’re building a new website or refreshing your current one, focusing on these core features can set you apart from the competition. Make it sleek, user-friendly, and packed with the right tools, and your business will be on the path to online success!
