6 Things You Should Do Before Investing in a Website

A website is the face of your business, and is directly related to the perceived value of your product/service. A website is also an investment. So to ensure that you get the most out of your investment (and make it more enjoyable for both you and your designer), here’s a list of the things I suggest that you do before working with a website designer.

1. Figure out what your business is… and name it.

It’s very difficult to build a website for a non-existent business.  As a website designer, it’s not my job to create or name your business for you.  If you’re still trying to figure out what exactly your business is about, I’d encourage you to hire a business coach first.

2. Establish your ideal client

To build a great website, I want to know who we’re building it for.  Knowing who you are talking to and selling to will help your website designer immensely.

3. Come up with your packages/services/offerings

With the goal being to sell, it’s very important to know what we’re actually selling.  As a website designer, it is not my job to help you determine your packages, pricing, or offers.  I highly recommend hiring a business coach if you’re unsure about where to start with this.

4. Think about what’s important to you

Because it’s your business and your website, it’s important to me that you actually like it.  So consider the things that you like on a website and the things that you hate.  These might be big or small.  Do you hate rounded buttons?  Is video something you appreciate on a website?  Knowing a bit about what you like and dislike will make the design process much smoother.  Just be sure to communicate these with your website designer (like me).

5. Consider the vibe

While most website designers request that you put together a Pinterest board or some sort of inspiration to get the ball rolling, you can be prepared by doing this yourself before you get started.  This will give you more time to fine tune what you like and don’t like, similarly to number four, but more generalized.

BONUS: Take photos

If you already have a strong brand, you might consider taking photos for your website before you start working with a website designer.  That way you already have them, and your designer can start playing with them.  

If you don’t have any branding done, please wait to take photos.  Your branding should influence your photos.

Note: please double-check with your designer before taking photos because some designers want an input on your website photos.

Tip: check out my top tips for taking photos for your website.

Looking for a website designer? Apply to work with me here.

Subscribe To The Craig Chronicle

One email a week. No spam, I promise.

Read more on The Craig Chronicle…