Over the years, we’ve heard many reasons why business owners choose to put off updating their website.
We get it. Learning web design and the latest technology isn’t a fun activity for many. The idea of updating your website might feel more like a chore than an exciting opportunity to better engage and convert business.
Yet, the truth is if you’re not positive that your website is generating consistent business, it is not doing its job and it’s time to make a change.
Website = Most Valuable Salesperson
Your website should be your most valuable salesperson. It’s available 24/7, 365 days a year and (if you update it) is the most knowledgeable on your business, what you offer, the problem it solves, who it’s for, why they need it and what to do next to get started.
So, for those who are still on the fence or have been putting it off, we’ve put together a list of the most common objections to updating your website, and our reasoning for why you may want to reconsider.
1. Don’t Have the Time
Time is a resource that no matter how successful you are or how much money you make, you can’t make more of it. BUT, you can streamline how you spend your time, which can free up your schedule to do the things you love.
Updating your website does take time (even if you hire a professional to help, you should be involved in the process).
However, if your website is updated well, it should utilize design best practices and technology to save you/your team time in the long run.
It can also help to generate new and consistent business.
If your website is not bringing you business, or you’re unsure if it is, it’s time to make a change!
2. Not Sure How to Use the Platform
We understand that not everyone is tech savvy. If you don’t have someone on your team who knows how to use your platform (WordPress, Wix, BigCommerce, Shopify, etc.), hire a 3rd party to help you or train someone on your team.
Search engines give extra love to websites that update their content often, so make sure you’re comfortable with making content changes. Nowadays, you don’t have to learn how to code to make changes to a Wix site or a WordPress site built with Divi, for example.
Your website is a crucial part of your business. So, make sure you feel comfortable using your platform and understand how it works!
3. Can’t Decide What Changes to Make
If you want to update your site yourself, but are unsure what changes to make there are a couple of things you can do.
First, if you haven’t already, install Google Analytics. This data will help you determine how visitors find your website, how they interact with it and if there are potential issues with the site that might be causing them to leave without completing a goal.
Use a tool like Hotjar to see what users really do on your website. Hotjar is a website heatmap and behavior analytics tool, and it’s a great way to gather key information on how people interact with your website.
Ask website visitors for feedback. If you’re still unsure what changes to make to your website, ask those who currently visit your site for their input!
Not getting many responses? Offer an incentive like a discount or a free guide in exchange for their feedback!
4. Had It For Years, Why Bother Changing
We hear this usually from veteran business owners who get most of their business through word of mouth.
The best response for this is if you don’t want more business, or to make things easier for those who visit your site, then don’t bother changing it.
For those who do want more business (whether it’s finding information about your business, learning how your service/product will their problem, or just making it as easy as possible to use your website) make sure you update your website!
5. Money is Tight at the Moment
This is especially true for many right now. But, updating your website doesn’t have to be crazy expensive. Depending on your goals, time and requirements, you can learn how to do it yourself, or find someone with varying levels of expertise to help you within price range that fits your budget.
Also, if done well, a redesign and updated digital strategy can be a great way to help you bring in additional business.
6. My Industry Doesn’t Care About a Website
We sometimes hear this from those who sell industrial goods, construction and some B2B (business to business) companies.
This may feel true, but many people still like to Google a company before they do business with them.
The more you can do to strengthen your online presence, the more professional your brand looks.
7. Most of My Sales Come From Trade Shows
The social distancing and self-isolating that came with the Covid-19 pandemic has shown us how important it is to have an online presence and virtual options available for your business.
If most of your business comes through trade shows, referrals or another offline method, that’s great!
BUT, you should still make sure you have a strong online presence and update your site regularly.
Your current and future customers will thank you!
Want Consistent Business Through Your Website?
We help professional brands on get online quickly with consistent business through their Wix or WordPress website.
Book a free strategy session today to chat about your business, what might be holding you back and how our programs can help!
