In today’s digital age, having a website isn’t just an option—it’s essential for small businesses. A well-designed website can attract customers, build trust, and drive sales. But what separates an average website from one that delivers real results? Here are the top 10 features every small business website needs to succeed.
1. Mobile-Friendly Design
With over 50% of global web traffic coming from mobile devices, having a responsive website is a must. A mobile-friendly design ensures your site looks and works great on any device, whether it’s a smartphone, tablet, or desktop. This is especially important for small businesses targeting on-the-go customers.
2. Clear Contact Information
Make it easy for customers to reach you.
Include a dedicated Contact Us page with:
- A phone number and email address
- A contact form
- Your business address (if applicable)
- Links to social media profiles
Adding a clickable phone number for mobile users is an extra touch that enhances user experience.
3. Fast Loading Speeds
Nobody likes waiting for a slow website. Research shows that 53% of visitors leave a site that takes more than 3 seconds to load.
Optimise your site’s speed by:
- Compressing images
- Using a reliable hosting provider
- Minimising plugins and scripts
Fast websites not only improve user experience but also rank higher on search engines.
4. Easy Navigation
Your website should be intuitive and simple to use. Implement a clean menu structure and ensure visitors can quickly find what they’re looking for. A well-organised navigation bar with clear categories makes browsing a breeze, whether it’s “Services,” “About Us,” or “Contact.”
5. Compelling Call-to-Actions (CTAs)
Guide your visitors toward desired actions with strategic CTAs. Whether it’s “Contact Us Today,” “Shop Now,” or “Sign Up for Updates,” your CTAs should be:
- Visible and easy to click
- Clear about what happens when clicked
- Strategically placed throughout your site
6. SEO Optimisation
To attract visitors, your website must rank well on search engines like Google.
Basic SEO features every small business website needs include:
- Keyword-rich meta titles and descriptions
- Optimised images with alt text
- Fast load times
- Mobile-friendliness
- Internal linking
Investing in SEO ensures your business is visible to customers searching for your products or services.
7. Testimonials and Reviews
Nothing builds trust like social proof. Showcase customer reviews or testimonials prominently on your site.
For small businesses, this could mean:
- A dedicated “Testimonials” page
- Highlighting reviews on the homepage
- Including case studies or success stories
Potential customers are more likely to choose your business if they see positive experiences from others.
8. Secure Payment Options (for E-Commerce)
If you’re selling products or services online, secure payment options are crucial. Customers need to feel safe entering their payment details.
Ensure your website:
- Has an SSL certificate (HTTPS)
- Offers multiple payment gateways like PayPal, Stripe, or credit cards
- Is compliant with data protection regulations (e.g., GDPR in the UK)
9. Engaging Visuals and Branding
First impressions matter, and for many customers, your website is their first interaction with your business.
Invest in:
- High-quality images that showcase your products or services
- Consistent branding (colours, fonts, logo)
- A visually appealing layout that reflects your business’s personality
This helps create a professional and memorable impression.
10. Regularly Updated Blog or Content
Fresh content not only keeps your website relevant but also helps with SEO.
A blog is a great way to:
- Share industry insights
- Announce new products or services
- Educate your audience
- Highlight promotions or events
For example, a bakery could share recipes or baking tips, while a gym could post fitness advice.
Bonus Tips
- Social Media Integration: Include links to your social media platforms so visitors can connect with you easily.
- Analytics Tools: Use tools like Google Analytics to track visitor behaviour and improve your website’s performance.
Conclusion
A small business website is more than just an online presence—it’s a tool to grow your business, engage customers, and drive sales. By incorporating these 10 essential features, you can ensure your website works hard for your business.
Need help creating or improving your website? At Highstreet Media, we specialise in building websites tailored to small business needs.
Get in touch today to start your journey to online success!
