So, you’ve developed a business, have a name, maybe hired some employees, and are waiting to get some new customers. The next step for you is to create a website, but where do you start?
Creating a website can be daunting, especially if you have no experience. Fortunately, when you break it down into easy-to-digest steps, crafting a website from scratch doesn’t have to be hard. The experts at a top digital marketing Orlando SEO company compiled a list of what to know before, during, and after you create a website to make things as seamless as possible for you.
Determine your goal
Before you even think about creating a website, you need to determine your goal and create your website around it. Do you want your website to be a place where consumers can buy your goods instead of going to a brick-and-mortar store? Do you want your website to simply be a reference place full of content to establish you as a thought leader in your industry? Or do you want your website to be a place where people can book time with you online? Your answers to these questions will help determine the goal for your website, which will then propel every action afterward.
Write out the details
It is always a good idea to write out the specifics of what you want when creating a website so you don’t forget anything along the way. Some website requirements to jot down include:
- Website storage
- Number of pages
- Tools such as blogs, slideshows, online booking features, and/or shopping carts
- A domain name
- Integration with social media (this may require you to also create accounts if you don’t already have them)
- Optimized for mobile use
- HTML and CSS codes for a responsive website.
It may also be helpful to prioritize this list so you don’t feel overwhelmed about where to start.
Invest in SEO
Millions of websites are out there, so how will you stand out among the crowd without proper search engine optimization? SEO is a digital marketing tactic that will help to drive the right customers to your website, while driving up your website’s position on a search engine result page. The overall goal of SEO is to boost your online visibility so you aren’t swallowed up by larger competitors. Hiring a SEO expert is the best method to ensuring you have the largest online reach possible.
Create a content schedule — and write it yourself
Websites are all about content, right? No one will stay on your website if you have outdated and/or sparse content. After all, they are coming to your website to learn more about you, your business, and the industry itself, so make sure you have a solid content calendar in place. Doing so will make your website seem fresh and alive, and if you write it yourself, you will work to build your customer’s trust in you as an industry expert.
Be personable and tell a story
Consumers now are different from in days past. They are looking for brands that have a personal story and people who they can connect to on a deeper level than just a one-and-done transaction. So be personable on your website and let people know who you are. Show pictures, hold giveaways, respond to messages, and be active in social media. Those who show really who they are as a business are more likely to convert potential customers into long-term buyers.
