Are you struggling with website design decisions for your small business? You’re not alone. Every time I host a workshop or webinar, the Q&A session runs long with thoughtful questions about website design and development.
I’ve compiled the most frequently asked website design questions I receive during consultations, at workshops, and in my inbox. Instead of quick surface-level answers, I’m providing detailed guidance to help you make informed decisions about your website.
1. Should I list pricing on my website?
Yes, you should list pricing on your website. When potential clients visit your site, they’re researching your services, values, and determining if you’re the right fit—pricing is a crucial part of this decision-making process.
By including pricing on your website, you:
– Save everyone valuable time
– Avoid awkward mismatched expectations on consultation calls
– Build trust through transparency
– Pre-qualify leads who are comfortable with your investment level
If someone visits your site and doesn’t see pricing information, they often assume your services cost more than they actually do and may not reach out at all. For customized services, you can provide “starting at” pricing or ranges to give visitors a general idea while acknowledging that final pricing depends on their specific needs.
2. How often should I update my website?
Regular website maintenance is essential:
– Monthly checks: Verify all contact forms work and information remains current
– Quarterly content reviews: Ensure your website aligns with your current business priorities
– Annual website audit: Conduct a thorough review, update imagery, and refresh content
WordPress websites require additional maintenance, including monthly plugin updates for security purposes. The goal is to keep your website current, secure, and aligned with your business objectives.
3. Do I need a blog for my service-based business website?
While not absolutely necessary, a blog offers significant benefits for service-based business websites:
– Establishes thought leadership in your industry
– Creates content around your expertise
– Improves search engine visibility
– Educates potential clients about your services
If you can commit to consistent posting (even if infrequent), a blog is valuable for your website. Most professional website designs include blog functionality so it’s ready when you’re prepared to start creating content.
4. Which converts better: contact forms or direct email on my website?
What converts best is neither forms nor email addresses alone—it’s an appointment scheduler that allows visitors to book a consultation directly. This approach eliminates friction and streamlines the process.
However, effective websites should include multiple contact options:
– A contact form for service inquiries
– Your email address for general questions
– An appointment scheduler for immediate bookings
This combination gives website visitors options based on their preferences and needs, maximizing your chances of conversion.
5. My website is slow. How do I fix it?
Slow-loading websites drive visitors away. If your site takes more than a few seconds to load, you’re likely losing potential clients. Here’s how to address website speed issues:
– For website builders (Squarespace, Wix, Showit): Contact their support team
– For WordPress websites: Invest in quality hosting (I recommend SiteGround), optimize images using tools like TinyPNG, minimize video size, and consider speed optimization plugins
Quality hosting is often the most important factor for WordPress website speed, followed by proper image optimization.
6. What elements should be above the fold on my website in 2025?
Your above-the-fold website content should immediately communicate:
– What you do
– How you help solve visitors’ problems
– A clear call-to-action
– An image showing the benefits of working with you (not the process)
– Streamlined navigation (5 items or fewer)
This critical website real estate should focus on clarity and conversion. For example, a dental website should show smiling people enjoying life with great teeth, not someone sitting in a dental chair.
7. What does mobile-first website design mean?
Mobile-friendly website design recognizes that phone users have different needs than desktop users. They typically want quick information and action steps, not extensive browsing experiences.
For mobile-friendly websites:
– Make text readable without zooming
– Ensure buttons are large enough to tap easily
– Simplify navigation on smaller screens
– Eliminate unnecessary imagery on mobile views
– Prevent text overlap issues
– Optimize load times for mobile networks
Test your website on various mobile devices to ensure a smooth experience and ask yourself if anything can be simplified for mobile users.
8. Can I handle my own website maintenance?
If you have a WordPress website, maintenance involves updating plugins, themes, and core files while ensuring everything remains compatible. You can handle this yourself if you:
– Know how to properly update plugins
– Understand what to do if updates break your site
– Can access and restore backups when needed
If you’d rather focus on your core business, consider working with a professional website maintenance service that can keep your site updated and be available for design changes when needed.
9. How do I know if my website is actually converting visitors?
Conversions represent the percentage of visitors who take your desired action (typically filling out a form or joining your email list). To measure your website’s conversion rate:
1. Track how many people visit your site over a set period (usually monthly)
2. Count how many complete your desired action
3. Divide the number of actions by total visitors and multiply by 100
A website conversion rate around 3% is generally considered good for small businesses. If your rate is lower, you may need to improve your messaging, user journey, or calls to action.
10. Do I need custom brand photos or can I just use stock images on my website?
Every small business website should have at least some custom brand photography. While stock photos have their place, authentic images of you and your business create emotional connections with potential clients.
At minimum, include on your website:
– Professional headshots
– Images of you working
– Photos that showcase your process or workspace
– Custom “filler” images that reflect your brand personality
Consider starting with a mini brand photoshoot if a full session seems overwhelming. The investment in personal brand photography pays dividends in website authenticity and connection.
Final Thoughts on Website Design FAQs
Your website is often the first impression potential clients have of your business. By addressing these common website design questions thoughtfully, you can create an online presence that attracts ideal clients and converts visitors into customers.
Remember that a good website works for you 24/7, functioning as both a brand ambassador and a sales tool. If you’re struggling with any of these aspects or want a professional perspective on your current site, consider scheduling a website audit or consultation.
Looking for more website design tips? Subscribe to my newsletter for weekly strategies to help your site convert better, or check out the Website Design Made Simple Podcast for actionable advice you can implement today.
