I like to think I’m high maintenance, so I can be low maintenance when it comes to my appearance and my website. Let me explain.
There are a few high-maintenance things I do consistently so that I have less work getting ready — stick to a multi-step skincare routine, sleep with my hair in a silk bonnet and heatless curlers, get monthly eyelash extensions, micro-blade my eyebrows every few years, and occasionally I’ll contour my face with self-tanner (yes, you can do that, and it’s such a life hack!). I do these things because it means I can just roll out of bed looking good. I’m high maintenance 5% of the time, so I can be low maintenance the other 95% of the time.
This is the same with websites.
Yes, it takes maintenance and a lot of work at the beginning, but once you do, you’ll automatically attract ideal clients to your brand without having to wake up early to market it.
So, if you’re wondering what the signs are that you’re due for a website upgrade, I’ve created this blog for you. Here’s how to make sure you reap the benefits of a modern website.
1. Your Website Doesn’t Feel Right Anymore
There are so many reasons why your website might not feel right anymore.
- It doesn’t reflect your values. As your business grows, your brand values and messaging may evolve. Your website should evolve, too.
- The colours and design feel off. Trends change, and so do your tastes. If your website colours or fonts feel dated or no longer align with your brand, it might be time for a redesign.
- It doesn’t feel premium. Perception matters. If your website doesn’t convey the quality of your services or products, potential clients might assume your offerings are subpar. Read all about positioning your brand as premium here.
You don’t need to know the exact reason why your website doesn’t feel right anymore for a redesign. It’s best to trust your gut!
2. Your Website Doesn’t Perform Well on Mobile
With over half of all web traffic coming from mobile devices, a website that isn’t mobile-friendly is not just leaving money on the table, it’s potentially losing customers. 74% of people are more likely to return to a mobile-friendly site, while over half will leave if it doesn’t load within three seconds. You want your website to be as easy to use on phones as on a computer. If you have to zoom in or scroll for a long time to find something, that’s your sign for a redesign!
3. Your Website Isn’t Accessible
Web accessibility isn’t just about making your website easier to use for people with disabilities. Although, you’re excluding a significant audience if you don’t think about disabled people. By ensuring your website aligns with the latest Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), you’re making your website easier to use for everyone, with or without a diagnosis. Side benefits include improving your SEO and brand reputation.
Learn more about how to make your website accessible here.
4. It’s Difficult to Find Things on Your Website
Today’s website user is impatient. They don’t want to have to search your website to find what they’re looking for. Complex menus, hidden links, and poorly organized content frustrate visitors and drive them away. And you definitely don’t want potential clients identifying your website with feeling annoyed. The goal? An intuitive website that leads users to inquire while answering all their questions as they come up.
Wondering how to improve your user experience? Check out this blog.
5. Your Website Doesn’t Have SEO Elements
An attractive website is great, but if no one can find it, it’s not doing its job. Things like slow load times, missing meta descriptions, and lack of keywords can hide your website. If your website doesn’t have SEO-friendly design elements like optimized images, strategic keyword placement, and fast-loading pages, it’s time to upgrade.
Find out everything you need to know about SEO web design here.
6. Your Website Has High Bounce Rates
A high bounce rate (the percentage of visitors who leave your site without interacting) signals that something isn’t working. There are so many reasons why your website isn’t engaging. Poor navigation, outdated design, or unengaging content can turn visitors away quickly. First impressions matter, so if visitors aren’t staying on your website for very long, that’s a sign to update it.
7. It’s Been Over 3 Years Since You’ve Updated Your Website
Web design evolves quickly. If it’s been more than three years since your last update, chances are your site is falling behind in design and functionality. Your website should be tested at least weekly for broken links and every few months for updates. So, if you haven’t done that in years, it’s time to update your website.
8. You Just Don’t Like Your Website Anymore
If you feel embarrassed to share your website and know it doesn’t represent your best work, it’s time for a change. Many business owners throw together a site just to get started but never revisit it. But as the quality of your work has changed, so should your website.
It’s Time To Have Your Website Reflect Your Expertise
If you’re answering “That’s me!” to any of these, this is your sign to Grab my Website Launch Checklist to make sure your site is set up for success.
And if you know you need a web designer in your future, inquire about project availability here.
