Creative business websites can be stressful, especially if you’re a business owner who doesn’t like tech, buttons, or any kind of programming stuff. But move away from your feelings a bit and think about it: your website is like your digital storefront. It’s the first impression people get of your business, and if it’s not up to par, well… let’s just say you might as well be putting a “closed” sign on your door.
So, what problems can occur on a business website? Well, for starters, most business websites are about as exciting as a timeshare presentation. They’re boring, they’re confusing, and they’re about as effective at attracting clients as a neon sign that says “boring business inside.” And don’t even get me started on the ones that are supposed to be “creative” but end up looking like a hot mess. I mean, who thought it was a good idea to put a flashing GIF on a website?
But fear not, dear reader! Because today, we’re going to dive into the 5 essential features of creative business websites that will make your site go from meh to mesmerizing. From visual branding to clear messaging, we’ll cover it all. So, if you’re ready to turn your website into a client-attracting machine, keep reading! This post is packed with tips, tricks, and expert advice on how to create a website that truly showcases your creative business.
A Brief History Of Web Design
So, when did web design become a thing? Well, let’s take a trip down memory lane. It all started in 1991, when the first website was launched by Tim Berners-Lee, a British computer scientist. The website was created to distribute information to other researchers, and it was basically just a bunch of text on a page.
Fast forward to 1994, and the web was starting to get a little more exciting. The first search engine, ALIWEB, was launched, and it used color to organize links into categories. It was like a rainbow exploded on the internet!
As the web continued to grow, web design started to become more sophisticated. Landing pages began to appear, designed to draw users in with color and clever messaging. And then, in 1994, the first web banner ad was launched – it was like a digital billboard on the internet. Fast-forward to today, and boom! Entrepreneurs started adopting creative business websites.
So, What is Web Design, Anyway?
Web design is a lot like building a house. You need to start with a solid foundation, and then you can add all the fancy features and decorations. Web design encompasses a range of skills and disciplines, including web graphic design, user interface design, and user experience design.
It’s like a big puzzle, and all the pieces need to fit together just right. And, just like a puzzle, it’s not just about making it look pretty – it’s about making it functional and easy to use.
The Evolution of Web Design
Over the years, web design has continued to evolve. We’ve gone from simple text-based websites to complex, interactive web applications. And, with the rise of mobile devices, web design has had to adapt to smaller screens and touch-based interfaces.
It’s like the web is a living, breathing creature, and web design is the process of taming it and making it do our bidding.
Types Of Websites
Static & Dynamic Websites
So, what’s the difference between a static website and a dynamic website? Well, a static website is like a brochure – it’s just a bunch of static pages that don’t change much. A dynamic website, on the other hand, is like a living, breathing creature – it’s constantly changing and adapting to user input.
Static websites are great for small businesses or individuals who just need a simple online presence. Dynamic websites, on the other hand, are better suited for larger businesses or organizations that need to update their content frequently.
Also, this course will help you decide the best type of website for your business. It also reveals trade secrets for building a personal brand that easily connects with your business website.
5 Important Features Of Creative Business Websites
1. Clear Navigation
Picture this: you’re on a website, and you’re trying to find the “About Us” page. But, instead of a simple menu, you’re faced with a maze of confusing links and buttons. You click on one thing, and it takes you to a completely different page. It’s like playing a game of website whack-a-mole.
That’s why clear navigation is essential. You want to make it easy for visitors to find what they’re looking for. Think of it like a treasure hunt, but instead of hunting for treasure, they’re hunting for information.
2. “About Us” Content
People want to connect with real humans, not just a faceless business. Your “About Us” page is the perfect opportunity to share your story, showcase your personality, and build trust with your audience. So, don’t be shy! Share your passions, your mission, and what makes you unique.
Think of it like a first date. You want to make a good impression, right? You want to show the other person that you’re interesting, fun, and worth getting to know. Your “About Us” page is like that first date, but instead of trying to impress a potential partner, you’re trying to impress potential customers. So remember to be creative about it, because creative business websites have to ignite that spark like a first date.
3. Call to Action (CTA) and Contact Information
You’ve got a visitor on your website! Now, what? You need to tell them what to do next. That’s where CTAs come in. Make it clear, make it prominent, and make it easy for them to take the next step.
Imagine you’re at a restaurant, and you’re trying to order food. But, instead of a clear menu, the waiter just hands you a piece of paper with a bunch of confusing options. You’d be frustrated, right? That’s what happens when you don’t have a clear CTA on your website.
Also, keep in mind that your CTA is the best place to build your email list. If you’re not sure how to do that, you can use this course on email marketing.
And, please, for the love of all things good, make sure your contact information is easy to find! You don’t want to make it harder for people to get in touch with you than it needs to be.
4. Rich Content
Your website needs content that’s valuable, relevant, and engaging. Think of it like a delicious meal. You want to serve up something that will satisfy your visitors’ hunger for information and leave them wanting more.
Or imagine you’re at a buffet, and all they have is stale bread and warm soda. Horrible thought.
5. Mobile-Friendly Features
Let’s face it, most people are glued to their phones. So, if your website isn’t mobile-friendly, you’re basically telling visitors to take a hike. Make sure your website is optimized for mobile devices, and you’ll be golden!
Imagine you’re trying to access a website on your phone, but it’s all wonky and hard to navigate. You’d get frustrated and leave, right? That’s what happens when you don’t have a mobile-friendly website.
The Benefits Of Having a Website
- Look professional: A website makes your business look legit, like you’re a real deal business owner and not just some hobbyist.
- Always available: Your website is like a salesperson who never takes a break. It’s always available to customers, even when you’re not.
- Exchange information: A website makes it easy for customers to get in touch with you and for you to share information about your business.
- Become a trusted resource: By creating valuable content on your website, you can establish yourself as an expert in your field and build trust with potential customers.
- Build credibility: Having a website is like having a badge of honor. It shows that you’re a reputable business that’s worth taking seriously.
Conclusion
And there you have it, folks! Having a website is no longer a nice-to-have, it’s a must-have for any creative business. By having a website, you’ll not only look professional and credible, but you’ll also be able to reach more customers, increase sales, and build trust with your audience.
So, if you haven’t already, get yourself a website and start reaping the benefits! And, if you’re looking for a platform to showcase your skills and gain clients for your professional business, be sure to check out Cre8Space – a fantastic platform that connects creatives with clients who need their expertise.
