If you own a small business of any kind, you need a website. It’s really a non-negotiable in today’s internet world.
Chances are you already have a website.
But if you’re like most small business owners your website isn’t what it needs to be.
It’s probably outdated or doesn’t produce the results you desire.
Therefore, I want to share what I consider to be the top 7 must dos for your small business website.
These tips will help you take your business website to the next level.
Keep in mind that this information will benefit any entrepreneur in any niche, not just network marketers.
1. Collect Names and Emails
The first and most important thing you need to do on your website is collect names and emails.
You need to build an email subscriber list, because the money is in the list.
You need to encourage people to give you their name and email by giving them something for free, such as a free report, a discount or a weekly newsletter.
As you collect names and emails you need to communicate often (at least once a week) so you can build a relationship with your list and monetize your list.
Add an opt-in box to every page of your website and also use a pop-up or pop-over.
Remember this, you spend a lot of money and time to get people to your website.
Most people will only visit once and never return.
If you capture even a small percentage of your visitors’ names and emails, you can build a substantial email list, cultivate relationships and make more money in your business.
2. Provide Your Phone Number
I really don’t understand why people and businesses want to HIDE behind their website.
If you are serious about what you do, you need to provide your phone number on multiple places on your website.
And you should answer your phone when it rings!
Some people want to talk to you by phone, not email.
If you don’t offer a phone number, you are missing out on a lot of business.
Sure, you will get some telemarketers and salespeople calling you because your number is listed, but that’s a natural part of doing business.
There are few things I find more frustrating than needing to talk with a company’s customer service, only to find out they don’t even have a phone number.
Seriously?
Don’t be one of those folks.
3. A Detailed About Me Page
You want a detailed about me page.
Share pictures of yourself, friends and family.
Share a few personal things.
Let people know you are a real human being, not this big corporation.
Be transparent.
Tell people a few neat things about yourself so they can connect with you on a personal basis.
This might sound really weird to some people reading this right now, but I can tell you this: it’s a simple way to differentiate yourself from everyone else in the marketplace.
People want to know who they are doing business with.
People want to do business with people they like, know and trust.
Check out my about me page to see a good example.
4. Know Your Objective
What are you ultimately trying to accomplish with your website?
Are you trying to make sales?
Or are you trying to educate prospects?
Are you trying to generate leads?
Your website should have ONE singular purpose.
If you are smart, your primary purpose should be to GENERATE LEADS.
The only exception might be if your website is an online store.
In that case, your goal is to make sales.
Spend time determining your purpose and make sure EVERYTHING about your website, including the content and layout, support your purpose.
5. Have a Frequently Asked Questions Page
You should have a frequently asked questions page (FAQ) on your small business website.
Whenever people ask you questions (by email or phone), post the question and answer on your FAQ page on your website.
This will save you time as you get more visitors and more questions.
It also reduces the amount of customer questions.
6. Mobile Friendly Layout
Your website must be mobile friendly.
Nearly half of all internet traffic is on some type of device, such as a smart phone or tablet.
If your website isn’t mobile friendly you are missing the boat.
You can even get penalized by the search engines for not having a mobile friendly website.
Fortunately, most of the WordPress themes, like the one I use, is mobile friendly.
If you’re using a site builder or custom layout, get with your programmer or webmaster to ensure it is mobile friendly.
Heck, bring up your website on your own smartphone right now and see what it looks like.
If this is an issue, get it fixed immediately.
7. Use Videos
Your website needs videos; lots of videos.
Many folks hate to read or can’t read.
When you use videos you can really connect with your website visitors.
This helps build trust and lets people connect with you before they make a purchase.
Try to include videos on the important pages of your website, especially the about me page.
BONUS TIP: As a bonus tip I would also suggest that you make sure your website/blog has a simple and easy to navigate layout.
It should be visually attractive and not overly complicated.
You don’t want too many bells and whistles that slow down your website or annoy your visitors.
Simple is a good thing!
Final Thoughts
In summary, these are my top 7 must dos for small business websites.
If you’re already doing most of these things, congratulations.
If not, consider sitting down with your webmaster or hiring a business coach to help you get started.
It won’t take that long to do and the payoff will be huge.
What are your thoughts?
Leave a comment below to let me know what you think are some of the must do things for small business websites.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Chuck Holmes
20+ Year Network Marketing Professional
Top Earner & Top Recruiter
Email: mrchuckholmes@gmail.com
P.S. Learn how to grow a successful network marketing business. Secret tips, training, and practical ideas. Free training delivered by email.
Great post especially since I am in the situation of needed to update my website now. I had not really thought about the use of videos before but will definitely plan on using them now!
I agree with you that everyone should have a website. It’s a great way to introduce yourself and collect the info you need.
Thanks for sharing your wisdom as always Chuck, well done!
Glad I could help Kathy.
Very good set of tips for a small business website Chuck!
I just wanted to throw out a little tip that I found just today. There is a newer email getting system called Welcome Mats. You may want to give it a try, it is free for now. I plan on trying it.
It is through Sumome and you can just Google Welcome Mats to see how it works. I guess many websites have upped their email lists in huge ways using them.
Never heard of it, but will check it out Greg. Thanks for sharing.