Your website is your digital shopfront. It’s where first impressions are made – and lost. If your site is outdated, slow, or giving users a frustrating experience, it could be costing you valuable leads and sales.
I get it – life as a small business owner is busy, and your website is just one of the many hats you wear. But in today’s digital age, keeping your website current isn’t optional. It’s essential to stay competitive.
So, how do you know if it’s time for a website update? Here are 8 key signs:
WHEN TO UPGRADE OR UPDATE YOUR WEBSITE
1.Your Website Is Over 3 Years Old
Web design trends and technologies change rapidly. If your site hasn’t been updated in a few years, chances are it’s missing essentials like mobile responsiveness, modern SEO best practices, or current design standards. Plus, search engine algorithms are constantly evolving – if you’re not keeping up, your rankings might be slipping.
2. It’s Not Mobile-Friendly
Over 60% of Kiwis browse on their phones. If your site doesn’t adapt to different screen sizes, visitors are likely bouncing before they even get to your message. A responsive design isn’t a luxury anymore – it’s a must.
3. Your Business Has Grown or Changed
Have you updated your branding, added new services, or shifted your audience? If your website doesn’t reflect where your business is today, it’s time for a redesign. Doing audience research every 6 months helps you stay aligned with what your customers need – your site should do the same.
4. Your Website Loads Slowly
Let’s be honest – nobody likes a slow website. In a world of instant everything, people will leave (and choose your competitor’s up to date website) if your site takes too long to load. A speedy site makes a big difference to both user experience and SEO.
5. The User Experience is Clunky
If navigating your site feels like solving a Rubik’s Cube, something’s wrong. Clear menus, intuitive layouts, and easy access to contact info are crucial. The easier your website is to use, the longer people will stay – and the more likely they’ll convert.
6. You’re Not Getting Leads or Sales
If traffic is coming in but no one’s calling, emailing, or buying, your site may not be doing its job. Strong CTAs (calls to action), clear messaging, and simple lead forms can boost conversions significantly.
7. SEO is an Afterthought
Search Engine Optimisation isn’t just for the big players. It’s your ticket to visibility online. If your site lacks proper headings, meta tags, fresh content, backlinks, or internal links and more – it’s time to sort that out. Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t stress, I can help you out.
8. Your Website Security is Outdated
Using old plugins or skipping site maintenance puts your business (and your visitors) at risk. Google won’t recommend an unsecured site, and neither will your customers. Regular updates and a secure platform are key to protecting your reputation.
5 PRACTICAL TIPS TO KEEP YOUR WEBSITE UP TO DATE AND COMPETITIVE
1. Dive into Your Analytics
Google Analytics (free) or tools like Ubersuggest, Moz, or SEMrush (paid) can give you insight into how people are using your site. Are they dropping off? Can’t find what they need? These platforms help you spot the problems – and give you tips on how to fix them.
2. Define Your Website Goals
What do you want your website to achieve? More enquiries? Better visibility for services? Improved branding? Write down everything that isn’t working to help you make strategic updates.
3. Partner with a Pro (That’s Me!)
I work with small businesses to offer practical, affordable website design – from quick touch-ups to full rebuilds. I also offer free audits, one-off projects, and ongoing support.
4. Refresh Your Content Regularly
Updating your website content helps with SEO and gives your site a fresh, relevant feel. Add new testimonials, update your imagery, make small content changes and write or edit blogs.
5. Tackle Updates in Stages
If a full redesign isn’t in the cards just yet, start small. Begin with your homepage and services page – then work your way through the rest. If you’d like a free website audit, I’ll send you a detailed report and a staged plan of attack.
WHEN A FULL WEBSITE REDESIGN IS WORTH IT
Sometimes small changes aren’t enough. If your website is built on an outdated platform, doesn’t support your future growth, or just no longer fits your goals – it might be time to start fresh.
I offer affordable website design packages tailored to your business size. Whether you need a basic 3-page site or a larger SEO-optimised build, I’ve got something that fits your needs and your budget. Hosting packages start from as little as $45/month for 3GB storage, all thanks to my longstanding reputable hosting partner. Check out my hosting prices here.
Already have a site? I also help with redesigns, updates, and ongoing support.
If any of those 8 signs sound familiar, it might be time to give your website a little TLC. Whether you need a refresh or a full redesign, I’m here to help.
Let’s chat about how I can make your website design work harder for your business.
