Starting a new business in this day and age requires you to have a website to try and get ahead. Even so, 36% of small businesses in the US still don’t have their own website.
Many of these businesses don’t have a website yet because the idea of designing a website can be pretty daunting. If you’re not overly tech-savvy, it can be a confusing process that you’d rather avoid.
Building the right small business website can be easy though, it’s just about knowing the different types of websites you can build and learning which one is right for you.
Here’s a run-down of some of the most common types.
E-Commerce Websites
If your business sells a product, then these kinds of websites are perfect for you. E-commerce websites perform as online shops that customers can purchase products from. The products are then shipped by the seller to the customer, easy as that.
Your e-commerce website should include a range of items that shoppers can browse by category. You should also offer a range of shipping and payment options to ensure that everyone can shop on your website.
Whenever you’re building a website, be sure to avoid some of the more common web design mistakes that people make.
Portfolios
Are you a freelancer looking to showcase your skills? Then a portfolio is the best website for you.
Many small businesses provide more of a service than a product, and those businesses need a way to show off all the work they’ve previously done. Portfolios are fantastic for creative companies as your previous work can act as proof of your skills.
Lead Generation Sites
Lead generation sites are primarily there to give your business an online presence to attract more customers. They’re usually stuffed full of great informative pages and content that keep people coming back for more.
These websites have to be enticing and offer customers a reason to come back. Always remember that the primary purpose of this site is to provide you with more business.
Blog
Blogs are a great way of putting your expertise and knowledge into the world. Perhaps you work in an incredibly specialized trade, and you want to show just how knowledgeable you are on a particular subject.
Blogs are straightforward to set up, and there are many websites and services out there that can guide you through every step of the process.
Brochure Websites
Brochure websites are something of a blend between portfolios and e-commerce sites. If your business sells a service and not a product, but it’s a service that’s difficult to showcase in a portfolio, then a brochure website is perfect for you.
You can show and describe the type of work you can do for potential customers and give them pricing options on these websites. Think of websites for hair salons, tradespeople, and auto-repair shops for an idea of what these look like.
There are Types of Websites for All Businesses
There is no limit to the types of websites you can create. Websites for businesses sometimes combine elements from all of the website types listed above. The website you design for your business is about what you want to showcase and how best you want to do that.
If you enjoyed this article, be sure to check out more of our business and technology content today.