Do you own a business? If so, take a look at your website. If it’s been a few years since it was designed, it’s probably outdated. When internet users see business websites with broken links, cluttered graphics, and messy text, it sends the message that that company just doesn’t care about making the sale. Customers may believe that that lack of professionalism might translate to poor customer service or an inferior product. A business’s website has approximately six seconds to make a good impression on visitors, and if they don’t, those customers are likely to go elsewhere.

But an outdated website doesn’t have to hold you back. If this sounds like your situation, it may be time to get a new website design for your business, and you can do so using a qualified web design agency. By choosing a company that offers trendy yet affordable web design, you can wow customers with a new site that’s great to look at and easy to use and navigate.

Thinking about a new website design for your business? Here are three things you should consider before signing a contract with a website SEO and design agency:

1. Navigation and Ease of Use: Having broken links, confusing drop down menus, or bogged down site maps are some of the easiest ways to scare away your site’s visitors. A good website will have sensible navigation, with pages divided by topic and category. Additionally, everything, including your online store, should function properly in order for customers to get the most out of your website — and maybe even make a purchase.

2. Clean Layout and Graphics: Too much clutter on a website is one of the top reasons customers are driven away from business websites. If customers can’t find the information they’re looking for in one big block of text, or they have to wait for a ton of graphics to load, they can get frustrated and head back to their Google results. A simple, clean layout with high quality graphics is the best way to keep customers on your page.

3. Mobile Compatibility: Did you know that more and more people use their smartphones and tablets to access the web each day? By only catering to customers on desktops and laptops, you’re missing out on your local customers who are on the go. Make sure that your website will be attractive and responsive on a mobile device, too.

Have more questions about using a custom web design service? Be sure to contact a reputable designer near you. Ask to see a portfolio and seek out feedback from an agency’s past customers before choosing a service, as plenty of firms may claim to offer these services and not do a comprehensive job. A good agency can show you their past work, so you’ll know exactly what you’re getting. If you need suggestions about finding a great website design for your business, leave a comment below. Continue.