The First Three Things I’d Fix on Almost Any Small Business Website
Your website is often the first impression. Make it count. Here are the top three things I fix on nearly every small business site to boost clarity, credibility, and conversion.
Small Business Tips
By Susie Taylor | Contributor WBN News | 16 July 2025
Your website might be costing you business — and not because it’s ugly or outdated. Even well-designed sites often miss the mark on the most important job your website has: clearly guiding a visitor toward connection and conversion.
After working with many small business owners, I’ve noticed three fixes that come up again and again — whether you’re a life coach, a landscaper, or a leadership consultant.
The Messaging Is All About You (Not Them)
Too many websites start with “I help…” or “We believe…” and immediately center the business. The problem? Your potential customer is asking, “Can you help me?” not “What’s your origin story?”
Your homepage should spotlight your customer’s pain point and desired transformation, not your resume. The clearer you are about the problem you solve and who you solve it for, the faster trust builds. Make your visitor feel seen, heard, and understood right away.
No Clear Call to Action
If I land on your site and don’t know what to do next, that’s a problem. Are you inviting me to book a call? Download a freebie? Visit your service page?
Every page should have one clear next step. Not seven. Not zero. Just one. Whether it's a bold “Schedule a Consultation” button or an email sign-up with a strong value proposition, don’t leave your visitors guessing. A confused mind doesn’t convert.
You're Using Words That Don’t Work
Your website isn’t a branding exercise. It’s a communication tool. If your words sound pretty but don’t clearly communicate your value, they’re not doing their job. Industry jargon, vague platitudes, and “cute” headlines often water down your message.
Instead, use plain, powerful language that speaks directly to your customer’s needs. Say what you do, how you help, and why it matters — as simply as possible. If a 10th grader can’t understand it, it’s probably too complex.
Bonus Fix: You're Hiding the Human
People don’t hire businesses. They hire people. If your site feels sterile or generic, it’s time to infuse your personality and passion into the copy and imagery. Let your voice come through. Show your face. Share your story. This builds trust faster than any logo or stock photo ever will.
Your website doesn’t need to be perfect to be profitable. But it does need to be clear, strategic, and human. Start with these three (okay, four) fixes, and you’ll be miles ahead of the competition.
Want help identifying your ideal client? Attend my free webinar on Friday, July 25 at 3 p.m. Eastern. Register here: https://my.linkpod.site/idealclients
Contact: Susie Taylor - susie.taylor.writer@outlook.com
Tags: #Small Business Tips #Website Strategy #Copywriting Matters #Clarity Is Kind #Storybrand #Entrepreneur Tools
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