How to Make Your Squarespace Website Look Less DIY & More Professional
As a small business owner, you may have initially taken the DIY approach to building your website to save costs or simply to get your online presence up and running quickly. This is completely fair! And, frankly, this approach may have worked (for a while). Though, if you’re feeling that your small business website is outdated, lacks organization, or doesn’t make you feel proud to share anymore, then you’ve come to the right place. Here are 5 simple ways to improve your DIY Squarespace site.
Here are 5 Ways to Improve Your Squarespace Website:
#1 - Invest in Pro Photography
One of the quickest ways to make your website look more professional is by incorporating high-quality images that accurately represent your brand. Stock photos can only take you so far; investing in professional photography tailored to your business can significantly enhance the visual appeal of your website. Whether it's product shots, team photos, or images of your workspace, original photography adds authenticity and personality to your site, setting it apart from the competition.
Consider hiring a professional photographer who understands your brand aesthetic and can capture the essence of your business. Alternatively, if budget constraints are a concern, you can explore freelance photographers or photography students who may offer their services at a more affordable rate.
#2 - Prioritize Responsive Design
Today, a significant portion of web traffic comes from smartphones and tablets. Therefore, it's imperative that your website looks and functions seamlessly across all devices and screen sizes. Responsive design ensures that your site adapts fluidly to different screen resolutions, providing users with an optimal viewing experience whether they're accessing your site from a desktop computer, smartphone, or tablet.
Investing in a responsive website design not only enhances user experience but also signals professionalism and attention to detail. Visitors are more likely to trust and engage with a website that functions smoothly on their preferred device, ultimately boosting your credibility and conversion rates.
#3 - Optimize for Speed & Performance
Users expect websites to load quickly and navigate effortlessly. A sluggish website not only frustrates visitors but also negatively impacts your search engine rankings, potentially driving valuable traffic away from your site. Therefore, optimizing your website for speed and performance is crucial for maintaining a professional online presence.
Start by optimizing images and multimedia content to reduce file sizes without compromising quality. Additionally, leverage caching mechanisms, minimize HTTP requests, and utilize content delivery networks (CDNs) to distribute your website's assets geographically for faster loading times across different regions.
#4 Prioritize Navigation and the User Experience
Arguably THE MOST IMPORTANT POINT: A well-designed website should be intuitive to navigate, allowing users to find the information they need quickly and easily. Poor navigation and confusing user interfaces can frustrate visitors and undermine the credibility of your business. To enhance navigation and user experience, streamline your website's structure and prioritize simplicity and clarity.
Ensure that your menu labels are descriptive and logically organized, guiding users to the most important sections of your site. Incorporate clear calls-to-action (CTAs) that prompt visitors to take desired actions, such as making a purchase, contacting you, or subscribing to your newsletter.
Perform usability testing to identify any pain points or usability issues that may hinder user experience. Solicit feedback from friends, family, or colleagues, or consider employing user testing services to gain valuable insights from real users. By prioritizing navigation and user experience, you'll create a more professional and user-friendly website that encourages engagement and conversions.
#5 Incorporate a Consistent (& Strong) Brand Identity
Consistent branding is key to establishing a strong and memorable online presence. Your website should reflect your brand identity cohesively across all pages, from the color scheme and typography to the tone of voice and imagery. Inconsistent branding can confuse visitors and dilute your brand message, detracting from the professionalism of your website.
Create brand guidelines that outline your brand's visual elements, including your logo, color palette, and typography choices. Ensure that these elements are consistently applied throughout your website, maintaining visual harmony and reinforcing brand recognition.
Consider creating custom graphics, icons, and illustrations that align with your brand's aesthetic and personality. These unique visual elements not only differentiate your website from competitors but also convey professionalism and attention to detail.
To Wrap Up
In conclusion, while building a professional-looking website may seem daunting, implementing these five hacks can help elevate the appearance of your site and enhance your online credibility. By investing in professional photography, prioritizing responsive design, optimizing for speed and performance, enhancing navigation and user experience, and incorporating consistent branding elements, you'll create a website that not only looks polished and professional but also effectively communicates your brand's value proposition to visitors.
