10 Things every business website should have
Your website is your digital shopfront. It’s the first impression most people will have of your business, and let’s be honest… if it doesn’t shine, they’ll move on faster than you can say Google me.
September 3, 2025
At Crafted East, we’re all about helping businesses create websites that work hard, look good, and actually convert visitors into customers. So, here’s our friendly checklist of the 10 things every business website should have.
1. A Clear Message
When someone lands on your homepage, they should instantly know who you are, what you do, and why it matters. No jargon, no fluff – just a clear value statement that makes them think: Yes, this is what I need.
2. Mobile-Friendly Design
More than half of all web traffic comes from mobiles. If your site doesn’t look great on a phone, you’re losing customers before they’ve even scrolled. Responsive design is no longer optional – it’s essential.
3. Fast Loading Speed
4. Easy Navigation
Menus should be simple, not a maze. Clear labels, logical categories, and a search bar if you’ve got lots of content. Think of it like guiding someone through your shop – don’t make them hunt for the till.
5. Contact Information
It sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised how many businesses hide their contact details. Make it easy to get in touch – phone, email, contact form, even a live chat if you can. Bonus points for adding your social media links too.
6. Strong Calls-to-Action (CTAs)
Don’t just tell visitors what you do – invite them to act. Whether it’s “Book a call”, “Get a free quote”, or “Download our guide”, a clear CTA gives people the next step.
7. About Page With Personality
People buy from people, not faceless businesses. Share your story, introduce your team, and show a little personality. It helps build trust and makes your brand memorable.
8. Testimonials & Reviews
Social proof is powerful. Showcase customer feedback, case studies, or reviews. It’s like word-of-mouth marketing – only online and 24/7.
9. SEO Basics
Your site should be optimised for search engines so people can actually find you. That means:
- Descriptive page titles & meta descriptions
- Relevant keywords (without stuffing)
- Alt text for images
- Internal links to keep people exploring
10. Secure & Trustworthy Design
Nobody wants to click on a dodgy-looking site. Use HTTPS for security, avoid cluttered layouts, and invest in a professional design. A trustworthy site = a trustworthy business.
Bonus Tip: Keep your website fresh! Outdated content (or worse “Coming Soon” pages that never arrived) can turn visitors away. Regular updates show you’re active, relevant, and ready for business.
Your website doesn’t need to be complicated, but it does need to be clear, modern, and built with your audience in mind. Nail these 10 essentials, and you’ll be well on your way to a site that not only looks good – but works hard for your business.
Ready to See How Your Website Measures Up?
We’re offering a free website audit for local businesses. We’ll review your site, highlight what’s working, and share quick wins to help you attract more customers.
