Things You Should Be Updating on Your Small Business Website

Now that it feels like everyone is connected to the internet constantly, a solid online presence is even more important for small businesses. So many companies create and foster a brand, communicate with customers, and conduct business online now, so don’t let your company get left behind. If you want to stay relevant and help your company thrive in this era of growing technological advancements, here are some basics you should be updating on your small business website. 

Security

Security is a huge factor that many small business owners don’t think about enough. This is especially important if you accept credit card payments or conduct business online. Your company has access to extremely sensitive data that you have a responsibility to protect from potential cyber attacks. The type of information will vary across industries, and yet every business needs to protect their company data. Just consider the digital transformation for healthcare for example. In this industry, individual privacy is especially important because it’s personal, sensitive information. By keeping your data secure, you can preserve your customer’s trust and save yourself from a potential lawsuit. In fact, many cloud-based software systems come with security guarantees and tech support to aid your small business in protecting its customer’s data. So do some research beforehand to see how they can be integrated with your current website. It’ll be worth it in the long run. 

Social Media Information

For many people, the first place they go to learn about a new business isn’t the webpage, but a social media profile. You don’t have to be active on all social media platforms, especially when many companies have to hire multiple people to do so, but it’s a good idea to at least claim your company’s name should you decide to use them in the future. Social media platforms emerge and fade all the time, but they’re one of the most powerful tools for connecting with your audience. 

About Us

You may be tempted to skip this page or slap something together, but it’s worth taking your time with. This section of your website is a prime opportunity to tell your story, connect with customers on an emotional level, highlight your values, and explain how your brand upholds those values through every day operations. Do you make donations to specific charities every month? Do you prioritize the mental health of your employees? Do you take the time and energy to sustainably source your products or materials? These are all elements that can help draw in potential customers with similar values. 

FAQ

If you’re tired of answering the same questions every day, it may be time to update your page of frequently asked questions. It won’t stop the questions entirely, since many people prefer to ask a person than go hunting on a website, but this is why it’s so important for your website to be easily navigated. For example, this can help your customers understand how to buy from your website, care for your products, and what to expect with current processing and shipping times. 

Policies

Having obvious policies for an online shop can save you from plenty of headaches down the road. When you have a difficult customer, it’s always convenient to be able to point them towards policies about shipping times, returns, exchanges, and the like. It’s also a good way to protect yourself legally. Always do your research about the legal requirements for business websites, especially if you have an online shop.

Your Team

There are several reasons why you might want to list your big team players online. It can help humanize your business when customers are able to put a face to a name or job title. It can also help direct people to the correct contact information. Including past accomplishments and personal hobbies or interests can further build trust between your company and the potential customers trying to choose between you and your competitors.

Conclusion 

When you’re swamped with the daily demands of running a company, it can be difficult to remember all of the little changes you should be making to your website. However, keeping up with all those little changes can make a huge impact on your company’s image and growing online audience over time.