A well-designed website is essential for local businesses aiming to attract customers and stand out in their community. Beyond aesthetics, your website needs to function as a tool to engage visitors and drive action. Here are five website design features that matter most for local businesses and how they can make a difference.
1. Integrated Google Maps and Contact Information
Make it as easy as possible for customers to find and contact you. Including a Google Maps widget on your website ensures visitors can quickly locate your business, while clear contact information helps them reach out.
Why It Matters:
- 86% of people use Google Maps to locate businesses (source: Statista).
- Customers are more likely to visit a business if they can quickly find directions and contact details.
Action Steps:
- Embed a Google Map on your contact page.
- Display your phone number, email address, and operating hours prominently.
- Include clickable phone numbers and email links for mobile users.
2. Mobile-Friendly and Responsive Design
With mobile devices accounting for over 58% of global website traffic (source: Statista), your site must provide a seamless experience on all devices. A mobile-friendly website ensures customers can browse, find information, and take action no matter what device they use.
Why It Matters:
- 57% of internet users say they won’t recommend a business with a poorly designed mobile site (source: Sweor).
- A responsive site improves local SEO rankings, making it easier for customers to find you.
Action Steps:
- Test your website on different devices to ensure responsiveness.
- Optimize loading times with compressed images and streamlined code.
- Use larger fonts and easily tappable buttons for mobile navigation.
3. Clear Calls-to-Action (CTAs)
Your website should guide visitors toward specific actions, such as calling your business, booking an appointment, or visiting your location. Well-placed CTAs help convert passive visitors into active customers.
Why It Matters:
- Websites with clear and strategically placed CTAs see a significant increase in conversion rates.
Action Steps:
- Use action-oriented language like “Call Now,” “Visit Us Today,” or “Book Your Appointment.”
- Place CTAs above the fold and at key touchpoints throughout your site.
- Use contrasting colors to make CTAs stand out.
4. Customer Testimonials and Reviews
Social proof is powerful. Featuring testimonials and reviews on your website can build trust and encourage new customers to choose your business over competitors.
Why It Matters:
- 72% of consumers say positive reviews make them trust a local business more (source: BrightLocal).
- Highlighting real customer experiences demonstrates credibility and quality.
Action Steps:
- Dedicate a section of your homepage to showcasing top customer reviews.
- Use video testimonials for added authenticity.
- Include a link to your Google Business Profile for more reviews.
5. Fast Loading Speeds
A slow website can drive potential customers away. In fact, 53% of mobile users abandon a site if it takes more than three seconds to load (source: Google).
Why It Matters:
- Faster-loading websites rank higher on search engines.
- A quick-loading site provides a better user experience and keeps visitors engaged.
Action Steps:
- Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights to identify issues slowing down your site.
- Compress images and use modern file formats like WebP.
- Consider a reliable hosting provider to ensure consistent performance.
Conclusion
A great website is more than just a digital storefront; it’s a critical tool for attracting and retaining customers. By focusing on these essential design features, local businesses can enhance user experience, improve their online presence, and drive more foot traffic.
Looking to revamp your website? Bold Coast Marketing Group specializes in creating high-performing, responsive websites tailored to local businesses. Contact us today to get started!