Month: August 2023

Who are web designers?

The terms web designers and developers are often used interchangeably. I would like to assume you want someone who will both design and develop your website for you. If so, continue reading.

Web designers are professionals who create, edit and update websites and webpages by combining visual design elements such as images, text, videos, graphics, and animations.

Ever wondered why Louis Vuitton’s site looks so elegant, responsive, and functional? It’s due to their meticulous attention to UX design, prioritizing rich content, user interaction, and seamless navigation, thereby enhancing the online luxury shopping experience.

Not just that, I also found some other cool sites such as Hyer, Swab the World, Andy Warhol’s website, and many more. These should be enough to give you a good idea of what web designers do and help you understand who they are.

In layman’s language, a web designer is like an artist who creates beautiful and functional websites. They use their creativity and computer skills to design a website’s layout, colors, and images. They also make sure that the website is easy to use and navigate so that people like you can enjoy it without any trouble.

What they do, in a nutshell

Just like how you need a blueprint to build a house, a web designer also needs a plan to create a website.

They work closely with the people who want the website, eg, a business owner like you, to ensure that everything they create is exactly what the you want.

Web designers also know how to make websites work on different devices, like your computer, tablet, or phone.

They make sure that the website looks great and works well no matter what device you’re using.

It is commonly known as responsive web design, where the site is created in a manner that works on different devices with different screen sizes.

What are the different types of web designers?

I personally seem to find no fitting definition for this. Nor is there an official definition for them. So, I’ll share what I feel is an ideal thought. When we refer to web designers, it can possibly be any of the 2:

The “all-rounder” or “generalist”

Here, a single person takes care of the entire web design process, from development to design to content.

The positives here could be a cost-friendly approach and not having to deal with multiple individuals. And also, faster TAT, at times.

However, there are some drawbacks as well.

They are not experts in every aspect of web design and development, which means they may do an average or even less-than-average job on most aspects of web design and development, even if they specialize in one of the areas.

This indirectly leads to low-quality work, which may give rise to issues that they might not be able to answer or solve.

In some cases, they might even use templates to build your website.

A downside is most template-based sites don’t use proper codes.

They leverage a framework known as the “visual builder” which basically speeds up the process but at the cost of quality and long-term viability.

A team of “specialists”

In this case, the work gets divided among professionals (cum specialists) from various fields.

So, you’ll have a web developer, a designer, a copywriter, and a project manager taking care of the entire operations and website layout and structure.

Here’s the good part.

A team will always bring a diverse range of skills to the table. Rest assured that each element of your project receives the attention and expertise it requires.

So, when a copywriter works on a project, their entire focus is on churning out engaging, value-adding and relevant content.

The same goes for a designer, who can work on the images, animations, or graphics, and a developer, who can focus on the back-end part, coding, bugs, or any other stuff.

Questions you need to ask yourself

Do I even need a web designer?

I know this might come out as an odd question.

The fact that you are here reading this blog and I am writing it is enough to justify the need for choosing a web designer.

I only mentioned it to make this guide a standard for anyone who has or will have web design as their project needs or requirements.

So, do you actually require a web designer?

Understand that web design is like a vast ocean.

On the top, it looks all good and appealing. But when we go deep inside, we understand how big it can be.

It’s a mixture of developing the code to set up the back-end, designing the brand logo and the website and webpages to make it look elegant and attractive, and the content which brings the brands’ communication to life.

So, when would you have the requirement of hiring a web designer?

• If you don’t have a website yet – A web designer can help you create a website from scratch, designing the layout, functionality and overall look and feel. This is important if you want to establish an online presence.
If your current website is outdated – If your site looks dated and isn’t responsive for mobile devices, a redesign by a web designer can modernize it. This helps ensure your site works well and looks professional on all devices.
• If your site is difficult to navigate – A web designer can improve the information architecture and make sure key pages and navigation are intuitive. This improves user experience.
• If the site doesn’t reflect your brand – A web designer can ensure the look and feel of your site aligns with your brand image. This helps reinforce brand recognition and perception.
• If you want to improve conversions/sales – A designer can help optimize pages like product or service pages to improve conversions. Things like clear calls-to-action and layout play a role.
• If you don’t have the skills – If you lack the technical skills for tasks like coding or migrating content to a new site, a web designer handles all of that seamlessly.

A skilled web designer is extremely valuable if you want a website that looks professional, functions smoothly, engages visitors, and ultimately helps you achieve your business goals through an impactful online presence.

They take care of both visual design and technical details to maximize your site’s effectiveness.

Am I fully aware of my project requirements?

An extremely important question.

This can, in a way, decide whether the end product meets what you wanted.

If you yourself are not knowledgeable of the complete requirements, your envisioned website will never come to be.

This question may seem simple, but it’s often overlooked.

Many clients come to us with a vague idea of what they want their website to look like, but they haven’t thought about the specifics.

For example,

Do they want a static website or one that’s dynamic and interactive?

Do they want a minimalist design or something more elaborate?

What color scheme should be used?

What pages should be included?

What should the user experience be like?

These are just some of the questions that need to be answered before hiring a web designer.

It’s important to clearly understand your project requirements so that you can communicate them effectively to the designer.

This will ensure that the end product is exactly what you envisioned.

But how do you go about determining your project requirements?

One way is to create a detailed project brief. This should outline everything from the objectives of the website to the target audience to the desired features and functionality.

It’s also a good idea to gather inspiration from other websites in your industry and create a brief to convey the look and feel you’re going for.

Don’t rush this process or overlook its importance.

What will be my budget?

There’s a school of thought among most businesses.

It’s that the budget should be based on what you need, not what you fancy or like.

Oftentimes, the latter leads to business owners overspending or being scammed in the name of quality work.

When preparing your project brief, be sure to be specific.

For example, let’s say you’re looking to redesign your current website or looking for a new website altogether.

Do you need a content management system (CMS)?

Do you need e-commerce functionality?

These are just a few things you should consider when preparing your project brief. Once you’ve identified your needs, you can set a realistic project budget. Remember to be flexible, but also stay within your means.

A couple of hundred dollars here and there shouldn’t hurt you much. After all, this work will lead to a future or long-term gain, which will then be worth it, even if it stings for now.

And a good web designer will work with you to create a website that meets your needs and fits your budget.

If I were to make an estimation for you, given that you have a requirement for web design from scratch, you might want to keep your range between $3,500 and $8,000.

Be prepared for this number.

You will also get people offering this service for $500-$1000.

But those will be freelancer numbers, with low quality as they strive to meet your basic web design requirements.

So, while following the numbers I’ve given here is unnecessary, it will help you base your decision on logic and reasoning.

What traits and skills do I seek in a web designer?

If you have done your research in this context, you must have frequently encountered posts about technical and soft skills.

I wouldn’t be discussing them here.

It’s just not worth putting forth the same thing already out there.

But, while you are here, you may also check out this blog by Webflow.

Through it, you will understand the 20 web designer skills that Jeff shares with us.

Things like knowing the design principles, user experience and user interface (UX/UI), responsive design proficiency, etc., are in there.

Coming back, you need to understand that a trait is not just technical proficiency or the ability to communicate. It should imbibe the confidence that you can have on the team. Not in their ability to communicate but in how they present themselves.

But, how they manage a situation.

If they work as a team to accomplish tasks, or if every individual in the team is only limiting themselves to their roles and doesn’t care about the rest, even if they know they can add value.

Understand that you are betting on the team and not on their skills.

Yes, technical and soft skills are sacrosanct. But there are other aspects as well that help you contemplate how to choose a web designer.

Does the web designer’s attitude and personality complement mine?

An expanded explanation of the previous point.

Web design is a long process; you will most likely spend the next few months with this person.

You need to be sure you’re working with people whom you connect with best.

Now, you would think, what is there to think here? I would go with a well-reputed agency with demonstrated experience and expertise. How does it matter?

Well, most people have this thought and decide based on it.

Rather than explaining something now, I’m sharing a screenshot of one of the most well-reputed agencies, which has been in the business for 2 decades and more.

Possibly a competitor for me, but what I wish to show here is experience and expertise is not everything. Check the screenshot of a client review below.

And this was not the only one. There are many other reviews like this for the company.

Sometimes, personality and attitude matter a bit more than skills and expertise.

So, are those, whom you have talked with,

• Pleasant to communicate with?
• Listening to understand and not to answer?
• Prioritizing your needs before theirs?
• Problem-solvers and have a never-say-no attitude?

You don’t want to be hanging around with the wrong sort.

You’ll experience the after-effects in the long run.

Is their expertise good enough for my project requirements?

The previous point is applicable, provided the fundamentals are in place.

If the web designer is not an expert in their field, there’s no point in even continuing ahead.

So, how do you go about this?

One of the ways is to assess their portfolio and compare them with the complexity of your project.

How well did they fare?

Do they have a 100% success rate with regard to the project provided?

If not, what was the reason for the same?

This will help you gauge their capabilities and extent of output.

Next, look out for the specific skill sets the person or the team has.

Do you feel those will be enough to execute and deliver a satisfactory project?

For example, if you need a website with a strong emphasis on e-commerce, you’ll want to ensure that the designer has experience in this area. Likewise, if you need a website with a complex back-end system, you’ll want to ensure that the designer has the necessary coding skills.

Be sure to do your research, understand the skills you must expect from these professionals, and then take a call. You may also look at their overall experience (as a contributing factor). A web designer who has been in the industry for a long time is likely to have a wealth of knowledge and skills that can be beneficial to your project. On the other hand, a newer designer may have more cutting-edge ideas and may be more willing to take risks.

Most importantly, you need to be 100% sound about your requirements. Only then can you expect the person to deliver. If you don’t communicate properly, the web designer may deliver something inaccurate or different, which in the first place, isn’t their fault.

Is their pricing justified?

You have interviewed a couple of agencies/freelancers.

You get the pricing from each of them.

Now based on

• Your project requirements
• The industry average
• Experience
• Use case and
• Most importantly, the value they bring to the table,

Does the pricing reflect a combination of output, accountability, and management?

You can also check

• What technology do they leverage
• If they have a proper communication channel
• If they are experts in their respective domains
• if they cover the entire scope of your project
• If they have a reasonable offer that is not aggressive

There’s no standard rule or a mark for price justification.

If you feel they have the capabilities to carry out the project, are pleasant and have a similar personality, and are open-minded, their pricing may be justified.

But that is for you to decide.

Will I require long-term help and support?

Be very sure of what you are looking for.

Do you want to have a one-off relationship with a web designer, where they’re only obligated to build your website?

Or do you seek someone who will also continue maintaining it, ensuring growth and business?

This is situational and completely depends on how you want to take things forward.

Two scenarios-

Scenario 1: You are knowledgeable and have the manpower to handle and maintain the website efficiently

Here, you are well off with just a website built as per your requirements. You can have a conversation with the web designer and include in the T&Cs, that they provide basic guidance and training to you or your team. With that, you should be good to go and just have a website, not indulge in additional services.

Scenario 2: You are a small team and have no experience with building and maintaining websites at all

This is where you would need the help of a web designer.

You:

• Don’t have a big enough team
• Are not knowledgeable about websites and the development process
• Need a beautiful yet professional website that only experienced and expert designers are capable of
• Are short on time and need someone to do this for you

There could be various other reasons.

These were possibly the ones which one would normally fit in.

Regardless of the scenario, having a backup, and that too from professionals that have proved their mettle in your industry, is crucial.

You need someone whom you can trust for their work and personality.

Also, have the confidence to call at any time (sometimes late at night as well if there’s an unavoidable emergency).

Is their portfolio screaming “QUALITY”?

Portfolios are a fundamental aspect based on which you should make your decision.

If the portfolio doesn’t contain samples from your industry, this could somewhere be an issue. So, keeping an eye out for portfolios that have diverse industry experience is important.

But, don’t base your decision on this one factor entirely. In the end, the approach of the team and their work quality will be the differentiating factor.

The websites we provide, for example, usually have a creative touch with diverse perspectives rather than always following a certain formula just to get the work done.

While I know many would like to settle for those basic and industry-specific websites.

But unless the design is different from others and has a creative or unique touch, your website will be one among hundreds.

So, here are a few things, in a nutshell, to look out for-

Visual appeal

Look for designs that catch your eye and make you want to explore further.

Pay attention to the use of color, typography, and layout that resonates with your brand’s identity and target audience.

User experience

Evaluate the portfolio for examples of clean navigation, logical information hierarchy, and clear calls to action.

This demonstrates the designer’s understanding of user behavior and their ability to create user-friendly interfaces.

Mobile responsiveness

Ensure that the designer’s portfolio includes examples of responsive designs that adapt seamlessly to different screen sizes, both desktop, and mobile.

This is essential in today’s mobile-centric world.

Range of projects

Look for a versatile portfolio showcasing various projects, demonstrating the designer’s adaptability and ability to meet diverse client needs.

Seek variety in terms of industry, design styles, and functionalities.

Follow these pointers, and you should be able to scrutinize the portfolios and understand how to choose a web designer.

Questions you need to ask the web designer

The following are questions that I encounter daily from my prospects.

While you might find other blogs on the internet having a ton more questions.

I assure you the below-mentioned ones are what you will require to start the process.

If you have come across many other questions, you can save them for subsequent conversations or maybe include some in the initial one if you feel so.

Where are you located?

The very first question that I get asked.

If you want someone to come to your office for discussions, then choosing someone local would be a good idea, but it also means you will have fewer options.

Web design is something that can be handled 100% online over a couple of video calls.

If you are not strict about working with someone locally, you will have more companies to choose from when hiring.

There are both pros and cons of both options. Let’s understand.

Local agency pros:

• Easier to communicate due to the same time zone
• Understands local culture/preferences
• Quicker to get on-site if needed

Local agency cons:

• Have higher rates
• Limited specialized expertise

Outsourced agency pros:

• Often lower cost
• Can provide 24/7 operations
• Access to a global talent pool

Outsourced agency cons:

• Communication barriers from different time zones
• Less familiarity with local customs
• Harder to meet in person

The main tradeoffs are cost versus communication/customization. An outsourced agency may provide more value if budget is a major factor, while a local agency offers better responsiveness and local knowledge. The ideal solution depends on the specific needs and priorities of the project.

But, remember, do not focus a lot on this aspect. Unless, of course, you have made up your mind to only partner with locals.

Have you worked for someone from the same industry as me?

Oh yes. This is a must-ask.

You need to be sure that the person you work with has the right experience in your industry.

You need to ensure the web designer knows about your industry, the best practices and norms, and keeps up with it.

Just building a website for an FMCG company doesn’t make you a professional in that industry.

So, look for the answer that resonates with your industry’s brand positioning, mindset, pain points, and a few other pointers.

Hiring someone who has worked in the same industry before is always good, as you do not have to hold their hands on everything.

However, you need to focus more on their web design approach and quality of work.

You will be amazed to find designers who would do a better job than designers who have worked before in your industry.

Do you have a portfolio for me to assess your work?

Don’t forget to have a look at the ones which are not from your industry too.

While your primary choice would be to have someone who has worked in your industry.

But this can backfire in a sense. Suppose you want a website made for a clothing brand. Now, the team you have partnered with has experience only in the clothing side.

This will lead to a cookie-cutter website that has no differentiation whatsoever.

Just like 50 other clothing brand websites.

Poof. Lost in the crowd.

So, along with your industry, thoroughly check for how well they perform in other industries to bring a new set of design approaches to your work.

Check for other aspects well. Such as

• Is the navigation simple?
• Is responsive design and mobile-friendliness implemented?
• Is the content relevant, and is the text easy to read?
• Are the aesthetics and visual appeal of the website spot on?
• Their attention to detail. Like micro-interactions, hover effects, or animations.

Remember that the work approach and quality should always be your priority when judging an agency.

Where will my website be hosted?

One of my favorite questions.

I advise all my prospects and clients to have this question on their must-ask list.

It should be a PRIORITY!

Ask them if your website will be hosted on their server or if they require you to buy a server and have them host it.

Pro tip: ALWAYS buy your own server and give the web designer access internally to do the development.

It is never a good idea to let someone else have control of your website.

Precaution is any day better than cure.

Can I contact your present and past clients?

Yes, this could be a great thing to do.

Check if they are confident enough to share all details with you which they can.

More than the confidence, actually do a thorough check by contacting their previous and current clients.

See what they have to say about the agency.

A reputed, well-disciplined, and ethical team should be more than happy to help you with this.

After all, who wouldn’t want to grab this opportunity of bragging about their work by using their present and past clients as real-work experience?

I would.

How many members are there in your team?

Are they a freelancer or is it a multiple-member team (like an agency)?

Speaking of freelancers, they are a one-man show.

They do the development, design, content writing, and project management all themselves.

Additionally, they have multiple clients with them.

So, do you believe they can give your project the attention you want them to give?

Do you feel they have the superpowers to be an expert in all the fields and give you a top-tier website while managing their other clients?

Now, coming to an agency where there are multiple clients.

But multiple designers, developers, copywriters, and account managers handle clients and provide them with individual attention and care.

You receive the best of all sides as in a dedicated-

• Developer to code and build your website
• Designer to work on the aesthetics and visual appeal
• Copywriter to make your communication flawless and induce the target audience’s attention
• Account/project manager to liaise with you and be the bridge between you and the team

The choice is yours, but by default, you must ask them this.

This opens room for a lot of communication.

Will I get a dedicated account manager?

Many agencies would have the option of providing you with a dedicated account manager.

But why?

Best to explain with a scenario.

You sign up with an agency without asking this question.

You guys start working. There comes a time when you start having some issues with the work and deadlines.

So, you want to talk with the team about this.

None of them give you a proper response. And some even try to ignore you deliberately. Or might even pass you to another person for the answer.

What do you do?

How do you work on this?

This is where an account manager steps in. They become the person that fills this gap and ensures work is on track.

And if there are issues, they make sure it’s attended to and the solution has been provided to you.

Without a dedicated account manager, consider the chances of productive and effective communication being close to zero, no matter how well an agency brags about its work process and communication channels.

Pros of a dedicated account manager: a single point of contact, accountability, and personalized service.

Ensure the team you work with has a dedicated account manager assigned to you and is committed.

How much will the service cost?

Sticker shock got you sweating?

I feel you.

A new website can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $150,000!

But don’t freak out yet.

Many professional-looking sites cost $3,500-$8,000. Basic brochure sites run $1,000-$3,000.

And eCommerce sites start at around $6,000. The price depends on things like custom designs vs templates, the number of pages, special features, and hosting.

Shop around and get multiple quotes.

Compare apples to apples. Ask what’s included and not.

If you are comparing a freelancer and an agency, there could be

Do your homework to get the best value. Review portfolios and testimonials.

Ask about additional charges for revisions.

Clearly define project specs upfront.

Investing in a quality website delivers ROI many times over. But overpaying wastes money.

Find the sweet spot between bare bones and budget buster.

Qualities to look out for when choosing a web design company

How to choose a web design company (if you have decided to go with one)?

A fundamental question that most small businesses search for.

More prominently, those who are on the verge of going the digital way.

Below are some qualities to look out for that may answer the above question.

Do they possess the required industry experience?

You want to partner with a team that understands your specific niche and has experience designing websites for businesses like yours.

This expertise goes beyond technical skills.

It involves deeply understanding your target audience’s needs and online behavior.

Furthermore, an agency with industry expertise will better compete with your competitors.

They can analyze their strategies, identify gaps, and help you differentiate yourself.

So, industry expertise is an important element when considering a web design agency.

This will ensure that you partner with a team that speaks your language and brings a wealth of experience to the table, ultimately resulting in a website that truly resonates with your target audience.

But there’s something that goes above and beyond industry experience, too.

And that’s quality.

Focus on a team with a good web design process and one that pays more attention to quality than one with just the expertise in your industry.

Have an open mind when deciding on this.

How flexible are they?

Flexibility is a quality not everyone can possess.

Your business is unique, and your website should reflect that.

You want to work with an adaptable agency that can cater to your specific requirements and preferences.

A flexible team won’t be afraid of change.

They welcome your feedback and are willing to make adjustments along the way. They understand that new ideas and opportunities may arise as you see your website taking shape.

They are open to incorporating these changes to ensure your website evolves into something that surpasses your expectations.

What should they do?

• The agency should be able to work with various content management systems (CMS) and e-commerce platforms, allowing you to choose the best fit for your business.
• They should also be proficient in responsive design, ensuring that your website looks and functions flawlessly across different devices and screen sizes.

If this is a green tick, you have a partner who is dedicated to turning your vision into a reality, providing a website that not only meets your current needs but also grows and adapts as your business evolves.

Do they possess strong work ethics?

Is the team committed to delivering high-quality results on time and operates with a strong sense of professionalism?

Do they take accountability for their actions, both good and bad?

Are they approachable, and do they prioritize your project and communication?

A team with a strong work ethic believes in clear and transparent communication.

They proactively provide project updates, address your concerns, and seek feedback.

They listen attentively to your ideas and ensure their design choices align with your vision and brand guidelines.

Furthermore, such a web design agency will know the importance of collaboration.

They see the client-agency relationship as a partnership where both parties contribute their expertise to achieve the best possible outcome.

They are receptive to your input and encourage an open exchange of ideas throughout the design process.

Without a strong work ethic, your website will be in ruins if it goes into the hands of the wrong person.

How creative are they?

Do they follow the same old tried and tested formula?

Or are they ready to break the shackles of the known and go beyond the ordinary?

A truly creative team will always immerse themselves in your brand.

They take the time to understand your story, values, and target audience.

With this foundation, they can develop a design concept that embodies the essence of your brand, making a lasting impression on your visitors.

They are up to date with the latest design trends and technologies.

They know what works and what doesn’t in the digital scene and use this knowledge to create a visually stunning, functional, and user-friendly website.

Excellent communication skills

You need someone who understands the importance of clear and open lines of communication throughout the design process.

Imagine partnering with a web design agency that truly listens to you.

They take the time to understand your goals, target audience, and design preferences.

They ask thoughtful questions to gain insights into your business, ensuring that their design choices align with your vision.

A web design agency with excellent communication skills keeps you informed every step of the way.

They provide regular project updates, seeking your feedback and addressing any concerns promptly. They understand your input is invaluable in creating a website meeting your expectations.

Such people will always explain complex technical concepts in a way that is easy to understand.

They value transparency and ensure you know the design process, timeline, and any potential challenges or trade-offs.

Benefits of choosing a web design company

Why should you consider an agency when you can either do it yourself or have a freelancer do it at a fraction of the cost of an agency?

This indirectly conveys some points to analyze, which help you decide on how to choose a web design company.

Let’s understand.

They save you the could-be-lost time

Imagine skipping the headaches of coding and troubleshooting.

How could you better spend your time?

What if you could focus on growing your business, exploring new opportunities, or even taking a well-deserved break?

Keep DIY aside. If you choose to go with a freelancer, things do not go as planned.

What would you do?

While that person might make the website for you for $2000 or less.

But do you think they’re an expert in all aspects, such as content, design, and development, to build a website that gives competition to the top ones on Google?

You never have to worry about any online business process or your website with an agency.

The team handles everything right from the discovery stage through the launch.

With an agency, you only focus on your core business operations.

Even an hour that you save, you can utilize towards other branding and marketing activities at your end.

They make you come out as a reliable brand

Picture a website that never fails your customers.

No more embarrassing error messages or downtime.

With a reliable website, your online presence becomes a dependable ally, always available to serve your visitors.

How does it feel to know your business is open 24/7 without a hitch?

That’s what an agency can do for you.

A dedicated team of developers works rigorously (sometimes in shifts) to ensure your site is up and working.

You don’t want to give your target audience a single reason to go elsewhere. And an agency can help you achieve this.

Whether you’re an eCommerce store or a personal brand, once you’re on top of your game, your leads and prospects will notice the difference, and your name will then become an authority.

Just think, how would visitors perceive businesses with outdated, amateurish websites?

They churn out responsive and niche-specific designs

Responsive design is crucial as they adapt to different screen sizes.

It ensures an optimal user experience on smartphones, tablets, and desktops.

Niche-specific designs, on the other hand, cater to the unique needs and aesthetics of specific industries or target audiences.

A web design agency helps you with this by first understanding your business goals, target audience, and industry trends.

They then create a personalized design strategy that aligns with your brand and engages your customers.

One good example of this is the modal web design approach. Modal design helps your brand communicate important messages on a pop-up-like window, ensuring the visitor finds it easily. Prominent applications of modal web design include sign-up forms, premium subscription forms for newsletters, and more.

Coming back, the agency ensures that the website looks visually appealing and functions seamlessly across devices, ultimately enhancing user satisfaction and conversion rates.

Have you ever had a website that didn’t look good on your phone?

How important is it for your website to stand out in your industry?

Imagine the attention your website would garner and its positive impact on your target audience.

They make sure speed is never an issue

Speed matters.

With a lightning-fast website, you’ll capture the attention of impatient visitors and keep them engaged.

What if your website loaded instantly, delivering a seamless browsing experience?

How many potential customers have you lost due to slow loading times?

Just so you know, research has shown that just a one-second delay in page load time can result in a 7% reduction in conversions.

This is where an agency, a team can help.

Since the developers work in a team and keep a thorough test in check, any website-related issue that impacts the speed is something that you will hardly encounter here.

They optimize your website to rank better on Google

How many potential customers are searching for products or services like yours?

Can you afford to be invisible?

These questions will automatically help you understand the seriousness of the situation.

Just imagine your website ranking high on search engine results, attracting steady organic traffic.

And the best part, you don’t have to do a thing.

The agency, having a set of SEO experts on their team, does everything for you.

They take care of all the technicals, help you set up your Google listing for trust and credibility, and have much higher rankings.

I doubt you will ever come across a freelancer who can develop, design, write, optimize for Google, manage the project, and deliver on time.

They turn your investment into a profit

I will explain this with an example.

Imagine you run a small online boutique selling handmade jewelry.

Currently, your website is basic and lacks the professional touch it deserves.

Visitors may find it difficult to navigate, the product images are of mediocre quality, and the overall design fails to capture the essence of your unique brand.

Now, envision you signing up with a reputed agency with adequate expertise and experience in your industry as well.

With a team of skilled designers, your website undergoes a complete makeover.

The new design showcases your stunning jewelry pieces with high-resolution images, highlighting their intricate details and craftsmanship.

The user interface becomes intuitive and seamless, making it effortless for visitors to browse and purchase.

As a result, your conversion rates soar.

Visitors now spend more time exploring your website, captivated by its visually appealing layout. The improved user experience instills confidence and trust in potential customers, increasing online sales.

But the impact doesn’t stop there. Your new website is SEO-optimized, meaning it ranks higher on search engine results for relevant keywords.

This drives organic traffic to your site, attracting even more potential customers actively seeking your products.

With increased visibility and improved user experience, your business gains a competitive edge in the market. Satisfied customers recommend your website to friends and family, leading to word-of-mouth referrals and further expansion of your customer base.

This is the power of partnering up with the right kind of people. If you interview a company and they get all green ticks on the above points, know that you have received your answer to how to choose a web design agency.

Is Your Hustler your type?

This is something for you to decide.

But, regardless, for both of us, without having a conversation, neither you nor I would be able to make a comment on this.

But, I would like to give you a brief description of my company.

Your Hustler is a full-service marketing agency specializing in website design, SEO, digital marketing, and branding.

We have been in the business for almost 9 years, and in this time, we have developed websites and actually built online businesses from scratch.

My team consists of

• Developers
• UI/UX designers
• Copywriters and content writers
• SEO specialists
• Account managers
• Email marketers
• Business development managers

And, of course, me.

I will not give any sort of “why should you choose me” explanation.

Because this is something that you will understand best when we have a conversation.

So, if you have any sort of website requirements, feel free to reach out to me.

I can assure you regardless of the outcome of the meeting, you will leave satisfied having attended the call.

But, I hope this guide did complete justice to your search on how to choose a web designer.

What are website care plans?

Website care plans are proactive maintenance programs designed to keep websites healthy, secure, and performing optimally.

They involve regularly monitoring, updating, and improving a website to prevent problems and keep it running smoothly.

A website care plan is essential for businesses to maintain the functionality and security of their websites.

Regular updates and security measures help protect against cyber threats and ensure a smooth user experience.

Next up, we look at the key elements you can find in a website care plan.

What are the key elements of such website care plans?

Some key elements of a robust website care plan include:

• Security updates – Installing patches, updates, and plugins as soon as they are released prevents over 80% of hacks and malware infections. Neglecting security updates leaves websites exposed.
• Backups – Regular automated backups save 99% of lost data and files in the event of server crashes, hacking, or human errors. Backups enable quick recovery with minimal disruption.
• Performance checks – Monitoring site speed, broken links, error messages, and other performance indicators on a bi-weekly basis to identify over 90% of optimization needs before they severely impact traffic and conversions.
• Content updates – Adding new content, checking for outdated information, and freshening design elements monthly keeps information accurate, websites compelling, and keeps visitors engaged.
• SEO improvements – Optimizing keywords, site architecture, alt text, and ensuring technical SEO best practices maintains organic rankings and improves domain authority.
• Testing – Cross-browser, cross-device testing bi-annually catches over 85% of display and compatibility issues. Annual accessibility testing is also critical.
• Malware scanning – Using malware detection software monthly prevents infections and blacklisting.

Following such a comprehensive web care plan requires an investment of time and other resources but pays off exponentially by keeping websites in peak condition year-round. It’s essential for preventative web maintenance.

Some alarming stats you might want to know!

Before we proceed and discuss why you should require a web care plan, here are some facts/stats I would like to share to understand why website maintenance is important.

• Downtime: According to a study by Gartner,the average cost of IT downtime is $5,600 per minute. This highlights the importance of regular website maintenance to prevent downtime and ensure that your website is always up and running.
• Security: In 2022, there were 5.3 billion internet users worldwide. This means that there is a large pool of potential targets for cybercriminals. Regular website maintenance, including software updates and security checks, is crucial to prevent security breaches and protect your website and its users.
• Speed: A 100-millisecond delay in website loading time can result in a 7% reduction in conversions. This emphasizes the importance of regularly optimizing your website’s speed through maintenance tasks such as image compression and code optimization.
• Backups: 30,000 websites are hacked every day. Regular website backups are crucial to ensure that you can quickly restore your website in the event of a security breach or other issues.

I’ve quite frequently mentioned hacks. Another alarming stat, as per Sucuri through their Hacked Website Report 2022, states:

• More than half (50.58%) of infected CMS applications were running outdated software versions at the time of infection. Keeping software up-to-date is a crucial security practice that many overlook.
• Over one-third (36%) of hacked websites had at least one vulnerable plugin or theme still active when remediation efforts began. The importance of promptly patching known vulnerabilities cannot be overstated.
• An alarming 69.63% of breached sites had backdoors planted by attackers at the time of discovery. Backdoors enable repeat compromises and must be thoroughly searched for and eliminated.

The data paints a problematic picture of systemic security shortcomings. From outdated platforms to unpatched flaws, poor software hygiene puts websites in the crosshairs.

Hope these found a way to gain your attention on the fact that your website could be on the verge of a potential threat.

Even keeping the threats aside, lack of maintenance would not only make your website look shabby and uncool but also take away the potential opportunities that were coming your way.

Key recommendations in terms of keeping your website safe

• Maintain updated CMS and plugins
• Implement strong passwords and two-factor authentication
• Install DDoS protection, malware scanners, and firewalls
• Perform frequent backups and software updates
• Monitor traffic for anomalies and threats
• Develop an incident response plan for attacks
• Limit employee access to critical systems
• Stay educated on emerging cyber threats and protection strategies

Maintain updated CMS and plugins

With the rapid release of new software versions, it’s critical to stay on top of updates for your CMS (WordPress, Drupal, etc.) and any plugins you use. Outdated systems become vulnerable to exploits that are patched in newer releases.

Set up automatic background updates wherever possible, or schedule regular manual updates. Prioritize updates that fix security issues. For plugins, choose only reputable ones with a good track record of maintenance.

Avoid abandoned or infrequently updated plugins where possible. Keeping your core systems and plugins updated is one of the easiest ways to protect your site.

Implement strong passwords and two-factor authentication

Using strong, unique passwords is an essential website security measure. Avoid common words, phrases, or personal info in passwords. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) to require a code from a separate device when logging in.

This prevents unauthorized access if a password is compromised. Use a password manager to generate and store strong passwords. Require strong passwords for all administrator and user accounts. Force password changes periodically.

Limit login attempts to prevent brute-force attacks. Implementing robust password policies and 2FA secures your site against account takeovers, one of the top threats.

Install DDoS protection, malware scanners, and firewalls

To guard against various cyber threats, deploy key protective tools.

DDoS mitigation services absorb and deflect flood attacks aiming to take down your site. Antimalware scanners detect and remove viruses, spyware, and other dangerous code.

Web application firewalls filter incoming traffic and block exploits. Hardening your site with a layered security approach makes it far more difficult for attackers to find vulnerabilities.

Monitor these systems and update their configurations regularly to ensure maximum effectiveness against an evolving threat landscape.

The right security tools provide invaluable shielding against attacks.

Perform frequent backups and software updates

One of the best defenses is being prepared to recover from an incident quickly.

Perform frequent automated backups of your website files and database so you can rapidly restore data in the event of corruption or deletion.

Test restoration periodically to verify backup integrity. Keep offline backups as well to aid recovery from ransomware. Also stay on top of software updates, which patch security flaws.

Following regular backup and update best practices enables you to minimize downtime and data loss from various mishaps or malicious actions.

Monitor traffic for anomalies and threats

Actively monitoring your web traffic lets you detect unusual activity that may indicate an attack. Use log analysis tools to watch for spikes in errors, bandwidth use, suspicious IP patterns, attempted exploits, and other red flags.

Configure alert notifications for potential issues. Also, scan regularly for malware, vulnerabilities, and other signs of compromise.

Having visibility into your traffic and environment allows quick incident response and remediation to limit damage from threats. Make active threat monitoring part of your daily security regimen.

Develop an incident response plan for attacks

Despite best efforts, your site may suffer a breach. Creating and practicing an incident response plan enables effective containment and recovery. Define steps to isolate, investigate, and remediate threats.

Train staff on response procedures and have technical/legal resources ready. Speed is critical to limit an attack’s impact once detected.

Take further steps like notifying customers if sensitive data is exposed. Planning ahead for security incidents helps you handle them in an organized way and bounce back faster.

A quick response time, as a result, will help battle and minimize operational downtime.

Limit employee access to critical systems

Your own staff likely has the most opportunity to intentionally or accidentally damage your site. Limit their access through role-based permissions and approve changes to critical systems.

Be cautious when granting admin privileges and review rights regularly. Enforce strong password policies and watch for suspicious insider activity.

Educate employees on security best practices and hold them accountable. While insider threats are difficult to control fully, taking proactive steps here makes a big difference in website security.

Stay educated on emerging cyber threats and protection strategies

The website security landscape evolves rapidly as new threats appear and technology changes.

Stay up-to-date by regularly reviewing security blogs, reports, and best practices guides. Attend web security training sessions and conferences. Sign up for services that provide intelligence on new attack methods and tools.

Adjust your defenses to counter emerging risks. Knowledge is power when it comes to cybersecurity. Maintaining continuous learning will help you keep your site’s protection current.

Why do you need website care plans?

Small business website care plans have been gaining popularity in recent times.

With increasing competition and technological advancements, small businesses find it challenging to handle the technical processes all by themselves while simultaneously working on the core business operations.

This is where web care plans come to the rescue.

It’s like a package where a team of experienced professionals handles your online operations for you. They ensure your company’s best salesman (i.e., your website) is free from any threats or technical issues that might ruin your brand’s online reputation.

But what’s the need for such measures?

Rock-solid website performance

Nothing hurts worse than your site crashing during peak sales hours. Or pages loading at a snail’s pace. Customers bail and revenue tanks. A care plan is your website’s lifeline.

• Daily automated backups ensure quick restores.
• Proactive security patches prevent vulnerabilities.
• Performance tuning and uptime monitoring keep things fast and functional 24/7.

If disaster somehow strikes, emergency response has your back. With proper website maintenance, your website is protected from the unpredictable.

Hacking attempts are constant

Scammers salivate over vulnerabilities to steal data and identities. Infect sites with malware. Launch denial-of-service attacks. A professional website care plan is your website’s armor.

One of the things companies do is use firewalls to block intrusions. And on top of that, they constantly engage in threat monitoring that helps detect any sort of unusual activity. This will shed light on any strange pattern discovered.

But it doesn’t stop here. Next, the team will conduct a full-scale security audit to uncover your website weaknesses before those pesky criminals do.

Consider the partnering company a 24/7 security force, standing guard against malicious attacks and protecting your customers and reputation.

Don’t become outdated and non-compliant

Technology sure moves fast these days.

It seems like every time I blink, something new has come along that makes the old stuff obsolete.

All those themes, plugins, and security certificates constantly need updates to stay compatible and secure as technology progresses.

And don’t even get me started on the ever-changing laws and regulations around running a website! It’s enough to make your head spin. If you’re not careful, it’s easy for your website to become a dusty old relic of the past, full of security vulnerabilities and not up to code.

That’s why having a plan to keep your site well-maintained is so important. Like a diligent butler attending to his stately manor, a good web care team will handle all those necessary updates and renewals behind the scenes so you don’t have to worry about it.

They’ll keep WordPress, themes, plugins, certificates, and hosting current and will regularly review your site’s custom code for potential issues. With their faithful service, your website will stay fresh, compliant, and ready to welcome visitors.

Gain a technical team without the cost

Running a website is no joke – it takes real know-how and tons of time to keep things up and running smoothly.

Hiring a full-time team to handle all that tech stuff is way too expensive for most businesses. That’s where a team like us comes in.

Our website care plan is like having your own personal technical team, without all the overhead costs and HR paperwork. We handle all the behind-the-scenes maintenance, updates, and support, so you can focus on what matters most – your business.

Think of us as your on-call technical crew. Whenever your site needs a tune-up or help with a tech issue, we’re there 24/7 with the expertise to fix it fast. No need to stress over the technical details or spend big bucks on a full-time team.

With our simple and affordable monthly fee, you can tap into tech pros anytime your website needs a hand.

Tap the real potential of your website

You’ve put in all this hard work, but your site still feels slow, insecure, and impossible to find on search engines. Conversions are low even though you’ve done everything you can think of.

But there’s hope.

Think of your website like your body. Even the most fit athletes need a coach to push them to new levels. Your website needs the same expert guidance.

That’s where website care plans come in.

The team works tirelessly, optimizing and improving its performance.

They start with a thorough audit of your site.

Finding weaknesses, removing bottlenecks, testing design upgrades – consider them your website’s workout partners.

Usability issues? – They will fix them.

SEO needs work? – They boost your rankings.

Security holes? – They will patch them up.

Conversions low? – They can maximize them.

With support from a professional web design and maintenance team, you can push your site to new heights, just like a personal trainer would for your body.

A few questions.

Were you hitting your head while understanding what you’ll need to do from the “recommendations’ section?

Do you feel you already have too much on your plate to be working on the technicals of your website?

But had some relief reading this section?

A team that handles the online operations for you. Keeps your website safe and up-to-date while you rack up the bottom line.

One such team is mine, at Your Hustler. In the following section, I’ll put forth what exactly my team provides in a small business website care plan.

Here’s what you get with Your Hustler

I’ve always believed that – I can only receive by giving first. So here is what I give you in order to build the rapport. A plan (more like a support system) built to ensure your business bypasses all the threats and issues lurking ahead.

Robust site care that keeps you covered

Running a website smoothly requires vigilance across many fronts. Our comprehensive care plans handle every aspect of site health so you can focus on business goals.

Continuous software updates

New WordPress versions introduce beneficial features and security fixes. We install each update as it’s released to keep your site up-to-date. Our lead developer thoroughly tests updates before deploying them to avoid conflicts.

Backup protection from all angles

We back up your site daily, storing copies locally and offsite. If disaster strikes, we can quickly restore your content with minimal downtime. We also provide firewalls and 24/7 threat monitoring to stop attacks proactively. Defense is our best offense.

Detailed website analytics

Our analytics tools track visitor behavior so you can optimize the user experience and improve conversions. We’ll help you interpret the data and take strategic action on insights.

Expert WordPress guidance and support

Have a question or special request? Our WordPress pros have you covered. We can guide you on implementing features, integrating tools, developing designs, and more. We love tackling new challenges.

Premium hosting you can count on

Our rock-solid hosting delivers 99.8% uptime and rapid load times to keep visitors happy. You can trust us with your online presence. We monitor servers round-the-clock from multiple backup locations.

Proactive security precautions

Over 13,000 WordPress sites get hacked every day. We invest in firewalls, threat monitoring, and other precautions to lock down your site proactively. Security is woven into every aspect of our care plans.

Final thoughts

Website care plans are a necessity in the present-day scenario where cyber crime is at its peak.

Neglecting your website’s maintenance and security opens the door to lost revenue, damaged reputation, and wasted investments.

Don’t wait for disaster to strike. Be proactive.

Protect your online presence with a professional web maintenance partner like Your Hustler.

Our all-encompassing website care plan vigilantly monitors, updates, optimizes and secures your website. Leverage our web experts so you can focus on what matters – growing your business.

The internet is always changing. Your site needs to change too, and stay up-to-date.

Let’s talk more about making a plan to care for your website-house. Keep it strong against the storms of the internet!

Big events like live concerts by Eminem, new Fast & Furious or Avengers movies, and major sales on sites like Amazon.

You name it, and you’ll find the hype created beforehand for these events.

And people experience FOMO when they feel like they are missing out on something exciting everyone is discussing.

Tthere are countless other examples.

While these events can also occur organically, they are often driven by the team behind them, generating awareness, excitement, and curiosity through marketing efforts.

Human psychology works in mysterious ways.

The more we are deprived of something and the longer it gets delayed, the more we get attracted to it gradually.

Just imagine big-buck movies starring in theatres without the trailers and marketing to build up the hype.

Launching your website without putting the word out is pretty much the same.

As per Siteefy, 3 new websites are created every second.

So, by the time you are done reading this blog, 1500 to 2000 new websites will have been launched.

Your website will be just one among those websites.

How can you still withstand such a massive amount of competition?

Why should your target audience choose you over thousand (or probably million) other websites?

• You connect with your audience on a local level.
• You take the initiative to offer them something which might not be freely available out there
• And you generate that unspoken curiosity through the different marketing and communication initiatives.

As per one of InVision’s statistics pages, a whopping 88% of consumers will likely not return to a website after a bad experience.

You can evade this with all the little creative initiatives you take to make your brand look fresh and happening.

So, why is website announcement necessary?

Before we even discuss the ways to get the word out, I would like you to understand the importance of putting your best foot forward in this regard.

Just knowing the means to communicate won’t suffice.

Before doing anything, always know the reason or get knowledge of its importance.

Get the hype train rolling for an insanely epic launch day

You’ve been eagerly building your online empire.

You’ve poured countless hours into shaping a website that’s about to represent you.

It’s time to kickstart the hype train for D-day.

Your website is your virtual storefront, open 24/7, welcoming visitors from across the globe.

It’s the hub where your brand comes alive, where your products and services shine brighter than the neon lights of Times Square.

It’s a platform where you can showcase your offerings, engage with your audience, and establish your authority in the industry.

So, how do you create that buzz?

It’s all about crafting a narrative that resonates with your audience.

It’s about telling the story behind your brand, the passion that fuels your endeavors, and the value you bring to the table.

This will create much-needed curiosity and ensure your audience is in the know and look forward to it.

But remember, simplicity is key. Don’t get lost in a labyrinth of fancy words or convoluted technical jargon.

Speak directly to your audience as if you’re sitting across from them, sipping a hot cup of joe.

Research has shown that about 38% of consumers stop engaging with a website if the content or the layout is not engaging or attractive.

This should give you enough time to cut the mustard content-wise, or else your efforts are as good as a snowball’s chance in hell.

Grab your subscribers’ attention and make ’em go, “Whoa!” with your mind-blowing updates

You know how important it is to keep your subscribers engaged and excited about what you have to offer.

Say, you’re throwing a massive party.

You’ve got the perfect venue, the most delicious food, and a playlist that will make everyone dance their hearts out.

But here’s the thing – if you don’t send out invitations and let people know about this incredible bash, how many guests do you think will show up?

Not many, I’m afraid.

The same principle applies to your business.

When you announce the launch of your shiny new website, you’re not just telling people, “Hey, I exist!”

You’re giving them a reason to pay attention and get excited.

It’s like unveiling a masterpiece that represents your business in the best possible way.

Imagine your subscribers receiving an email from you, the subject line screaming, “Get Ready for a Jaw-Dropping Experience!”

Can you picture their eyes widening with anticipation?

They’ll be curious to see what’s in store for them.

But if the message, graphics, or visuals are not captivating enough, you will lose out on many good leads.

Why?

As per studies, the average person has an attention span of 8 seconds. So you need something really tight to break through this.

Your new website isn’t just a pretty face; it’s a powerful tool that can skyrocket your business to new heights.

With a sleek design, intuitive navigation, and captivating content, you’ll be wowing your visitors and keeping them hooked.

Think about the impact this can have on your brand. A well-crafted website showcases your professionalism, builds trust, and tells your customers that you mean business.

It’s like showing up to that party in a stunning outfit that makes heads turn. You’ll stand out from the crowd and leave a lasting impression.

But, all this should be conveyed in a very simple but out-of-the-box manner through a mix of text, visuals, and graphics in each of your announcement communications.

Craft your brand’s personality and vibe with your audience

When you announce your new website, you have the perfect opportunity to establish your brand’s identity.

Think of it as a chance to showcase your unique style, personality, and values.

Through carefully curated content, visuals, and design elements, you can communicate who you are, what you stand for, and what sets you apart from the competition.

Crafting a consistent and cohesive brand image will help you build recognition, loyalty, and trust among your target audience.

Your website becomes the canvas where you can paint a vivid picture of your brand story, mission, and vision.

Using the same colors, fonts, and pictures, you can make your website look like your brand.

In fact, using a signature color improves brand recognition by 80%.

This will make everything look nice and match together, which will make people like it more.

Moreover, you can use language and tone that reflects your brand’s personality.

Whether playful, humorous, professional, authoritative, or somewhere in between.

5 ways to bring your new website announcement to light

Leverage the power of social media

Ah yes.

Good old Instagram and Facebook posts.

Here are some statistics you must know about Facebook and Instagram.

Facebook

• A video post increases interaction by 600% on Facebook.
• 1.98 billion people, on average, log into Facebook daily.
• 98.5% of users access Facebook from mobile devices. Source

Instagram

• Daily active users of Instagram stories are 500 million
• Instagram has over 1.22 billion monthly active users.
• Instagram has seen an 80% increase in users’ time watching videos on the platform. Source

Now, just imagine you make some really good efforts and make your announcement reach even 0.001% of the daily users.

For Facebook, it’s approximately 19.8k users, and for Instagram, it’s about 5,000 users.

Just imagine the eyeballs you will get on your website if you continue these posts and build momentum.

Above all, your posts need to captivate, or else, even if you reach a big lot, it won’t be productive.

Follow the below points.

Craft a compelling teaser:

Building anticipation is key to creating a buzz around your new website.

Tease your audience with a visually stunning image or a short video snippet that showcases the essence of your website’s purpose and unique features.

Accompany it with an attention-grabbing caption that leaves your audience eager for more.

Create a countdown campaign:

Everyone loves the excitement of a countdown.

Dedicate a series of posts in the days leading up to your website launch, revealing sneak peeks, behind-the-scenes shots, or teaser content.

Encourage your followers to engage by guessing what your website offers, fostering community and anticipation.

Unveil the big reveal:

Make it an unforgettable event on launch day.

Craft a captivating post that showcases the culmination of your hard work.

Include a visually stunning image or video and an engaging caption highlighting your website’s unique value to your audience’s lives.

Consider offering an exclusive discount or limited-time promotion to incentivize immediate action.

Leverage influencers and partnerships:

Collaborate with influencers or complementary brands to amplify your website announcement.

Reach out to individuals or organizations whose values align with yours and propose mutually beneficial partnerships.

Co-create content, organize giveaways or ask influencers to share their experiences with your website, generating a sense of authenticity and credibility.

83% of consumers believe retailers should provide more authentic shopping experiences to customers.

Write a compelling press release

Composing a press release for your new website announcement is a valuable initial step, despite today’s prevalent digital consumption of news.

A press release, typically limited to one page, succinctly informs people about your offering.

To maximize the visibility of your press release, ensure that it adheres to the appropriate format.

This will make it more likely for your news to be noticed by different news organizations and shared with the right people.

Upon having the available space, publications may publish your announcement as you have written it.

But also with some potential edits.

Here, I would advise you to submit your PR to multiple organizations. More so those who cover your industry.

And on top of that, also target the ones who cater to readers who would find your announcement appealing.

If I were to give you a brief of how to go about with your press release, here-

Begin your press release with a compelling introduction that immediately grabs the reader’s attention.

Paint a vivid picture of what sets your website apart and why it’s worth their time. Whether it’s an innovative feature, a unique design, or a fresh perspective, emphasize the value your website brings to its users.

Next, briefly overview your website, highlighting its key features and functionalities. Keep this section concise and easy to digest, ensuring that readers can quickly grasp what your website is all about. Use clear and simple language, avoiding technical jargon that may confuse or alienate your audience.

Include a quote from a key team member or founder to amplify interest and credibility. This quote should encapsulate the passion, vision, and goals behind your website. Make it personal and inspiring, conveying the dedication and commitment driving your project.

Generate the buzz through properly sequenced emails

Email marketing is, hands-down, the most effective marketing method to get good-quality leads and traffic.

About 4 billion users make use of email daily.

Now, like you did in social media, it’s best to start with a teaser-type announcement.

And gradually shift towards showing the diverse features of your website and offering.

And why should people engage with your website.

Out of ideas?

No worries, you can kickstart with the release of a new product.

Or maybe even a special offer on the day of launch. A one-time coupon or discount code should do the trick.

You can also go the video way.

Videos under a minute have been shown to produce an average engagement rate of 53.9%.

You can share walkthroughs of your website, using some background commentary to retain interest.

Rest assured, if people are engaging with your emails, you have done something amazing.

Don’t forget to be open to the “Mailer” way

Know this- not everyone is on social media.

Many prefer to stay away from all these platforms.

Don’t give yourself a reason to not reach out to this audience.

If, by any chance, you possess a direct mailing list, you have a high probability to engage them.

Design a brochure or a postcard, craft an engaging and personalized letter or any other physical business document that you can use for mailing.

You can reach out to your business clients, volunteers or any not-for-profit organization.

Basically, anything sensible enough to increase awareness and popularity of your brand.

But, most importantly, the content is strictly tailored to your brand and industry.

Remember, an average consumer will always read physical or electronic mails or, for this matter, any other communication from this point of view- what’s in it for me?

Don’t be so involved in your brand promotion that you digress and not show them what benefit or feature will your website provide to your audience.

Here are some ideas which will help you focus on the benefits/features.

• Have you implemented a customer support chatbot on your website to assist users with their inquiries?
• Are you offering any discounts or promotional offers for new customers?
• Have you expanded your delivery options to include international shipping?
• Are you actively engaging with customers through social media platforms?
• Have you introduced any eco-friendly initiatives or sustainable practices in your business?
• Are you utilizing customer feedback and reviews to improve your products/services?
• Have you enhanced your website’s security measures to ensure the protection of customer data?
• Do you provide a user-friendly interface for customers to track their orders and shipments?
• Have you integrated a loyalty program to reward repeat customers for their continued support?

Highlight all these benefits or features in your missive.

Give the recipients a very strong and convincing reason to check out your website.

QR codes have become very popular in recent times.

You can also implement a QR code into your mailer to show your competence with technology.

Upon scanning, the recipient should be led straight to your site.

Believe it or not, physical emails are still a thing. People still love reading them.

And more importantly, these pieces have a shelf life of 17 days, whereas their digital counterpart has only 17 seconds.

Promote an offer

You’ve just launched your own website and want to get people excited about it.

Well, there are a bunch of cool ways to do that.

You can offer special deals and incentives to grab people’s attention and get them to check out your site.

You can try stuff like:

1. Giveaways: You could run contests where people can win your products for free. Everyone loves free stuff, right?
2. Promo codes: Offer discounts on orders by giving people special codes to use when they make a purchase. It’s like a secret password that gets them a great deal.
3. Free access to premium content: Give people a taste of the good stuff by offering free access to your best content for a limited time. It’s like a VIP pass to your website.
4. Free shipping: Nobody likes paying for shipping, so why not offer it for free? Or you can lower the minimum order amount required to get free shipping. It’s a win-win for your customers.
5. Complimentary services: Provide free audits, resources, assessments, or consultation time to your customers. It’s like having your own personal expert helping you out.

These are just a few ideas to get you started.

The key is to think about what would excite people about your website and make them want to return for more.

When you offer select individuals early access to your website, you create a sense of privilege and anticipation among them.

You can invite loyal customers, industry influencers, or beta testers to explore your website before the official launch.

In exchange for their precious feedback, they get a sneak peek into your offerings and become your brand ambassadors.

This approach makes them feel valued and helps you gather valuable insights.

And further identify any potential issues or areas for improvement.

Their feedback can guide you in refining your website’s functionality, user experience, and content to ensure a stellar launch.

Additionally, this exclusivity can generate buzz and word-of-mouth marketing as the privileged few share their excitement and experiences with others.

It creates a sense of urgency and curiosity among your wider audience, encouraging them to eagerly await the official launch day.

Remember to express gratitude to your early access participants and acknowledge their contributions publicly, further strengthening their bond with your brand.

And consider a soft launch as a strategic move to make your website announcement more engaging, interactive, and memorable.

Announce your website in style

So there you have it.

Launching a new website without creating a buzz is like throwing a party without sending out invitations.

You’ve worked hard to build a stunning online empire.

And now it’s time to kickstart the hype train for the grand unveiling.

Craft a compelling narrative that resonates with your audience, tell the story behind your brand, and showcase the value you bring to the table.

Leverage the power of social media, email marketing, and even physical mailers to spread the word and create excitement.

But remember, simplicity is key. Speak directly to your audience.

And hey, if you’re looking for that extra touch of magic to make your website shine, you might want to consider partnering up with experienced professionals with close to a decade of experience.

Like Your Hustler. We can build what you want, when you want, and how you want.

We will let you focus on your core business operations while we build your online presence for you.

You can surprise me by booking a free consultation if you wish to.

Here’s the link- https://calendly.com/aditya-48

Cheers.