You’ve waited and waited and discussed with friends, fans and employees. You cringe when you look at your website on a smartphone or tablet and cringe even worse when you think of potential clients finding your website on their phone or tablet. It’s time your business had a responsive website.
Maybe it’s best to answer this question first: “What is a responsive website?” Simply put, a responsive website means your site is designed to be optimally viewed based on the size of the display screen that is accessing your site.
Over the years, I’ve heard many of you say that you don’t need a website. “I’ve got social media sites and that’s where everyone goes, anyway.” Or, “My business is so small, it doesn’t really matter.” Please consider this: all of your potential and current customers expect you to have a website where they can gain info about your business. The site needs to be professional, as it most likely will be your customer’s first contact with you. If you want to be taken seriously, you need to have a professional website. And remember, your competitor probably already has one.
All of your potential and current customers expect you to have a website where they can gain info about your business.
Use your website as a method to show your expertise and professionalism. Show them that you are a first class operation with a top-notch staff. You can do all of this now without having to take out a second mortgage on your house.
But do you really need to make your site responsive? You’ve got a great-looking site that you update frequently – surely you can get by with it for another season, right? I’m here to tell you that it’s time to move. Let me give you five reasons why.
1. Mobile usage is skyrocketing – I don’t think I have to convince you much on this point, but I’ll drive it home with a few quick facts.
a. 55% of all website traffic is from mobile devices.
b. Almost 60% of adults own a smartphone.
2. Over half of social media usage is done on mobile devices.
a. When you share links to your website on Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter and Facebook, those users are going straight to your site. And they are on their smartphone when they are clicking.
3. Google says that responsive sites help your SEO (Search Engine Optimization).
a. Responsive sites use a single URL rather than multiple URLS for a mobile version.
b. Google says that mobile searches will overtake desktop searches this year!
4. Responsive design changes to each screen size.
a. Whether it’s iPhone 6, 6+, Galaxy, or the latest, greatest tablet, your website will adjust to display your content in an awesome looking format.
5. It’s easier for your users.
a. Make navigating your site easier and more user friendly – no more scrolling, pinching or zooming in order to see the content.
b. How many times have you clicked the wrong link on a site on your phone because it’s too small and jammed up against other content? Stop doing that to your guests.
It’s time. Make it a 2015 priority to make your site mobile-friendly. You’ll be glad you did, but more importantly, your clients and future clients will thank you. ■
