What Every Website Needs | Houston Web Designer + Branding Photographer

When it comes to running a reputable business and professional, your website says a fair amount about your brand, it’s messaging, and core values. If you are struggling to convert more leads, your website could be a culprit. Here are four important items to consider when analyzing your website’s overall performance as a marketing and/or sales channel.

What Every Website Needs

Mobile Optimization 

According to studies, 50% of global traffic on the web comes from mobile devices like smartphones and tablets*. If your website isn’t mobile friendly, you’re likely losing out on up to 50% of leads you could otherwise have if it were optimized for mobile devices.

Media 

We are living in a time where visual imagery is important now more than ever. Visual content such as images and videos help clients and customers connect with your brand on a personal level, and also helps to convey your work. Could you imagine visiting a photographer’s website and not being able to see color or images? It sounds like an oxymoron, right?  

Contact Information 

Have you ever visited a website and wondered where they serviced or where they were located? The feeling of uncertainty and confusion due to lack of communication can be quite cumbersome. If you do not have a physical location, or service multiple locations or regions, simply stating that in either the footer or your homepage’s header will make it easier for potential customers to learn the information they need. You should also include a clear way for prospects or leads to get in contact with you, whether that be a contact form, email, or phone number. Clearly displaying contact information prominently will give prospects, customers, and clients more certainty that you can service them. 

Fast load times 

Not only is the 21st century driven by media, we could also argue that today’s society can sometimes be impatient. Due to the advancement of technologies like faster computer processors, pressure cookers, and microwaves, many consumers are not willing to wait for long. Sources estimate that the longer your website takes to load, the less likely you are to convert leads. In fact, you have about 5 seconds or less to make a great impression. Tools like: Google Pagespeed, Pingdom, and GTMetrix provide ways for you to test your website’s speed from locations across the world. 

Summary: What every website needs

Of course there are other necessities your website should have, such as security, accessible fonts, and cookie notices when targeting ideal customers or clients in California or Europe. In closing, I hope this post provides you with a general guide when thinking about what your website should have. Niesha Fuentes is a web designer and traveling photographer based in North Houston, TX.  Click here to learn more about web design services offered nationwide.