Contrary to popular belief, a business website is not a once-and-done venture. It is something that needs to be cultivated and groomed continually for a company to reap its maximum harvest.  In today’s world, 81% of consumers conduct research online before purchasing a product or services. That’s huge. If you are neglecting to stay on top of your online game, you could be losing life-changing business opportunities and not even know it.

But how do you know when it’s time for your website to get some TLC? Here are 4 reasons you need to update your website:

 

It’s not Mobile-Friendly

Most online searches are performed on mobile devices, rather than desktop computers. Last year, Google’s new mobile algorithm boosted mobile-friendly websites in the search engine’s results, those that weren’t, well, they were left in the dust. In this day and age, if your site is not using a responsive web design, you are missing out on a significant portion of online leads.

Check out your website on your mobile device to see if it’s mobile friendly. If you have to zoom in to read the information, it isn’t a responsive site. As a responsive website, the page will reconfigure to fit whatever device it is you’re using, whether it’s a desktop, smartphone, or tablet. The page fits cleanly on the screen, is easy to read (without zooming) and has concise navigation.

 

It’s Hard to Update

If you can’t easily access your website to give it a few updates every now and then, you could have a problem. The quality and freshness of your website content plays a major role in your search engine rankings. Your content has to be original and targeted to your audience. One of the most important search engine optimization tips of 2016 is to provide content your users want to see, as opposed to only providing content on things you are trying to promote.

On average, Google prefers longer articles of targeted content. Incorporating a blog to your website allows you to not only add lengthier articles, it can also open a dialogue with readers (potential customers). To make these longer articles easier to digest, we suggest breaking up long-form content with subheads, bullet points and images throughout the copy to make it easy for readers to more quickly scan and digest it.

 

Your Branding Changed

Businesses evolve over the years. Sometimes they want to refocus on what they do best, so a new website is a good place to put some energy back into the business and revitalize it. If you have updated your logo or your business focus has changed, your website should reflect that. Presenting a clear and consistent message is crucial to attracting new customers. If you need help establishing a distinct brand and strategy, consult a professional advertising or marketing agency for guidance.

 

You’re Not Proud of It

Are you sending people to your LinkedIn page to learn more about the business? Do you start apologizing for your website’s look or lack of content or clarity when you hand out your business card? If you’re nodding your head “yes,” then it’s definitely time for an update.

Having a strong online presence is essential. Today, your business or personal website has replaced the initial face-to-face meeting and hand shake. Consumers are drawing opinions on your business by what they are finding online. You want your website to reflect who you currently are as a business, so having the right design and content is necessary for your business to thrive. You don’t want to be embarrassed of it; you want to be PROUD of it. Your online profile is a keystone to building a stronger, more productive business.