Have you been looking for ways to spruce up your website so it has a more contemporary look and feel? There’s no better time than the present to move forward! Websites can become outdated quicker than you would think. A website designed 3 or 4 years ago can already feel like it’s not up to date with today’s styles and templates and market trends. The following are some of the best features you can add and strategies you can implement to revamp your web presence this year:
7 Ways to Spruce Up Your Website
SSL CERTIFICATES
SSL stands for “secure sockets layer,” a type of web protocol that encrypts information passed through computers. This is how companies can protect the private information of consumers, such as credit card information, passwords, login information and anything else that could potentially lead to fraud if exposed. It is more important than ever for businesses to use SSL certificates, as Google will start issuing warnings to users who enter sites without an SSL. This could scare away potential clients.
GREATER SITE SECURITY
Just like with SSL certificates, you can enhance the security on your end of the web, as well. Consider changing your passwords and make sure you have updated all the plugins you are using on your WordPress site. Cyber security is a crucial step to spruce up your website, and keep it safe in the long term.
NEW WEB DESIGN
You might choose to fully redesign your site or simply make a few changes to your layout. Consider whether you will add or remove content, where you will implement opt-in forms (such as mailing lists) and what type of overall aesthetic you are going for with your firm’s website design.
BETTER OPTIMIZE FOR MOBILE:
At this point, having a mobile-friendly website is no longer a luxury — it’s a necessity. More people now browse the internet via mobile than on desktop computers. Make sure your web design has been properly optimized for mobile use. It should both look good on mobile devices and have built-in functionality that takes into account how people browse the web on their smartphones and tablets.
IMPROVE YOUR SEO
Google is constantly updating its algorithms, which means search engine practices that worked a few years ago might not be effective today. Keep up to date with these algorithm changes and make the corresponding changes to your website’s search engine optimization that will help your site rank well.
IMPROVE YOUR SITE’S SPEED
Users will quickly navigate away from a site that loads too slowly. If you are having site speed issues, chances are there’s a problem with broken plugins, oversized image or video files, images or other files not caching in the server or poor hosting. You might also have pending updates you need to make to your site.
ENHANCE YOUR USER EXPERIENCE
User experience goes beyond loading times. You should double check that all links work, that your site is easy to navigate and that it’s easy for visitors to contact you for more information.
It’s a good idea to regularly review your website and think about any changes you should make to enhance its effectiveness at engaging potential clients. If so, consider taking the actions listed above to spruce up your website, and ensure it continues to set your firm apart in the increasingly competitive world of digital marketing.
Post originally appeared on Conroy Creative Counsel