How Small Business Owners Can Improve Their DIY Website
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 even the most well-intentioned DIY sites can fall short of their potential without an outside perspective.
Your Website Is Your First Impression
Think of your website as the first impression a potential customer has with your business. If it’s confusing 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” but about making sure your website is doing what you need it, too — engage people and prompt them to act.
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 don’t immediately understand what you do and why it matters to them.
Navigation is tricky – Pages don’t flow or make things easy to find.
Design choices distract – Fonts, colors, and layouts may look “fun” to you but confuse visitors.
Calls-to-action aren’t strong – Visitors get lost very quickly so you may be losing them before you think you are and they don’t sign up for your newsletter, book a call, or hire you.
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. Making your website clear and usable is the goal. An unbiased, professional review will:
Analyze your messaging and make sure it speaks directly to your ideal customer.
Test flow 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.
The Ripple Effect
Professional feedback will help your site look better and perform better. Visitors stay longer, trust your more, and take action. For small business owners, this means more leads, sales, and confidence in your work.
Now What?
Kudos for getting your business online! Let’s make sure it’s 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 — no 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?
Let’s get it looking and feeling great!
