DIY Website Review: How Small Business Owners Can Improve Their Site
Did you build your website yourself? So did I — more than once. It’s a cost-effective solution for many small businesses that are just getting off the ground or exploring a business idea.
Maybe you used a drag-and-drop builder, maybe you stayed up late perfecting each page, or maybe you just launched to get your business online quickly (all me!). And that’s great. But here’s the thing: even the most well-intentioned DIY sites can fall short of their potential without an outside perspective.
Your Website Is Your Business Front Door
Think of your website as the first handshake a potential customer has with your business. If it’s confusing, slow, or unclear, visitors may leave before they even understand what you offer. Getting feedback on it helps you see your site the way your audience does. It’s not about pointing out what’s “wrong”—it’s about making sure your website works as hard as you do.
We are often too close to the business to be objective about it. And your friends and family are often too nice to give their honest opinion — and they don’t have the expertise to help.
Why DIY Sites Can Miss the Mark
DIY websites are powerful tools, but there are pitfalls small business owners often encounter:
Messaging isn’t clear – Your visitors should immediately understand what you offer and why it matters to them.
Navigation is tricky – Pages should be easy to find and flows intuitive.
Design choices distract – Fonts, colors, and layouts may look “fun” to you but confuse visitors.
Calls-to-action aren’t strong – Visitors need guidance to take the next step, whether that’s signing up for a newsletter, booking a call, or making a purchase.
Even small issues like these can cost you trust, engagement, and sales.
How a Website Review Can Transform Your Business
A professional review doesn’t mean a complete overhaul—it means clarity, usability, and confidence. An unbiased, professional review will:
Analyze your messaging and ensure it speaks directly to your ideal customer.
Test navigation and user experience to prevent confusion or frustration.
Identify design tweaks that make your site feel cohesive and professional.
Evaluate calls-to-action to maximize conversions and engagement.
Getting Feedback Without Feeling Overwhelmed
Ask for feedback from someone who understands small businesses – They should know your goals and your audience.
Implement their actionable insights – Focus on changes that will have the most impact.
Choose what to keep and what to ignore – You don’t have to implement every suggestion. Prioritize what moves the needle.
The Ripple Effect
Professional feedback will not only help your site look better — it will help it perform better. Visitors stay longer, trust your brand, and take action. For small business owners, that can mean more leads, more sales, and more confidence that your online presence reflects the quality of your work.
Final Thought
You worked hard to get your business online. A professional review ensures is effective, clear, and inviting.
If you’re ready for a website check-up, we’d love to help. It’s free and fast. You’ll get actionable items you can use today without an obligation or strings attached.
Here’s what one of our clients had to say after getting a professional review (and refresh) of her DIY small business website:
Working with Heidi was such a delightful experience. She was able to honor my voice and established branding and curate a refresh to my website giving it new life. Heidi is a fabulous and timely project manager and still finds balance to the pace of a busy entrepreneur like me! I am super grateful for her.
— Dre Barthel | Covey Events
Ready to get actionable feedback on your website? We’ll get it looking and feeling great!
