When business owners say, ‘I need a new website,’ they’re often not sure where to start. In most cases, the realization is preceded by some inciting event. Perhaps a vendor couldn’t find their location online. Or maybe a customer commented on the sad state of their current site. Whatever the cause, they’ve realized that they’ve neglected their online presence for too long and it’s time to take action.
If you’ve found yourself in this situation, you might be struggling to determine your next steps. Do you just need to refresh your current site? Should you completely rebuild from the ground up? While you’re at it, do you need to reassess your company’s branding? Without professional guidance, you may not be able to answer these questions. An experienced website designer can guide you through the process and develop a website that positions your company at the forefront of your customers’ search queries.
Better yet, by engaging in this process with a professional, you can ensure that your new website is built to last. You can be certain it adheres to mobile-first design principles. You can rest assured that it’s built to perform on search engines. And, above all else, you can be confident that it will provide your customers with a memorable experience. But, before hiring someone, where should you start?
1. Define your goals to inform your search
Before you start, you need to create an outline of what you’re hoping to accomplish and – more importantly – how you hope to get there. Just saying, ‘I need a new website’ isn’t enough. Are you aiming to complete your project by a certain date? Do you need to stick to a certain budget?
Ask yourself as many questions as you can to determine what you’re hoping to get out of your new site. And, if you’re technically inclined, do a little research to understand what’s possible. If you haven’t redesigned your site in years, there may be new technologies, tools, and methods that you can use to wow your customers.
2. Do in-depth searching to find an experienced agency
Once you have a clear idea of what you want, start searching for those things online. While you’ll find plenty of agencies by searching for ‘kalamazoo web designers,’ you’ll get better results by searching for the specific things that you need. If you’re hoping to integrate your company’s sales software, try searching for ‘website integration.’ Or, if your goal is to build a top-notch online store, you’ll find more qualified agencies by searching for terms like ‘ecommerce web design.’
3. Don’t just say, ‘I need a new website,’ ask questions!
After deciding on a web design team, you’re going to want to ask a lot of questions. Be clear with your team up front. Let them know your expectations.
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- Can they provide all of the services that you need? If they’re a full-service agency, ask them if their quotes include graphic design, software integration, copywriting, and development.
- Are you hoping to secure a top spot on Google’s search results? Ask them if they have experience with search engine optimization.
- Do you need solutions for improving your company’s image? Ask them if they can recommend – or implement – reputation management software to generate positive reviews.
- Will they provide you with ongoing support? Websites require regular attention and updates, ask them if they’ll be monitoring your site to ensure that it remains fresh, current, and secure.
4. When you’re certain they’re capable: make a deal
At the end of your search, hopefully you’ve settled on a qualified designer and you’re no longer thinking, ‘I need a new website.’ Instead, you’re thinking, ‘I need to make a deal.’ A reputable agency will recommend a solution that fits within your budget. There are so many agencies out there that you don’t need to settle for one employing high-pressure sales tactics or impossibly steep payments.
If you’re not able to afford the agency’s down payments, ask about a low-cost monthly plan that doesn’t require a hefty down payment. Most designers will work within your limits to deliver a website that meets your needs. And, if they’re not willing to work with you, do you really want to work with them?
Still repeating ‘I need a new website’ to yourself?
By now, we’re hoping you’re ready to pull the trigger on your new website and work with our team. With over twenty years of experience building high-quality websites that attract visitors, generate leads, and make sales, we can help you revamp your online presence.
Best of all, with our no-pressure, no-obligation consultations, you can leverage our expertise and get professional guidance for absolutely no cost. So, if you’ve been telling yourself, ‘I need a new website’ for far too long, contact us today to get started on your new design.
