March 29, 2022
Date
Melonie Mottice
Author
You might be rolling your eyes, but if you need help with your website, you’re not alone.
There’s a common misconception that anyone can easily build and maintain a website. While website platforms like Showit, Wix, and WordPress exist for businesses to get online quickly, the reality is that even a DIY website needs to be updated and maintained.
Don’t get me wrong—if you enjoy tech and have the resources and time to learn all things web design, that’s great! More power to you. Just click off this post, but for everyone else, keep reading…
Even with these powerful platforms, DIY•ing a website takes more than choosing a template. It relies largely on YOU.
Again, I use, love, and value website platforms because they allow me to focus on what I enjoy most about web design, which is to design. But, the reality is that they have to be used correctly to maximize their full potential. Not a brag, but I also have a degree in website design and a master’s in marketing and communication, which helps A LOT.
The Bottom Line: You need to have knowledge of web design, SEO, and marketing best practices to ensure your site performs at its best when you use a website platform.
Without these, your website may not be optimized for search engines or user experience, which can hold you back from reaching your full potential online.
The Challenge with Website Builders and DIY Websites
- While website builders advertise that anyone can create a site, they often fail to mention just how much time and effort it takes to get it right—and even more to maintain it.
- Templates can be a good starting point, but they often don’t perfectly fit your content, forcing you to spend time tweaking or redesigning the layout anyway.
This is where a professional web designer like me comes in.
A designer’s expertise in design and strategy ensures that your website is built to fit your unique content and business goals rather than the other way around, trying to make a template work.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by this process, know that nearly all the clients I work with share the same frustration with their website. And this is exactly where the value of working with a professional web designer shines.
Three Things to Look for in a Professional Web Designer
Well, let me reassure you. I’ve got you, and so will all the other good designers out there. Here are three things I strive to do in the beginning stages.
- Understand your business. A good website designer will get to know you, your business, and audience and all of the ins and outs of your business.
- Do their homework. Even before I speak with anyone, I do my homework! I pride myself in that research stage to make the most of the time I have with prospective clients.
- Big picture. Lastly, a credible designer will look at the big picture, beyond the design, and focus on your goals and the functionality of your website so it can be used as a tool for your business.
Sidenote: As I’m writing this, all I could think about was this on replay.😂
Why Health & Wellness Websites Are Unique
Health and wellness websites need to prioritize privacy, security, and trust. Clients often share sensitive information, so your website must connect to systems that ensure data protection and comply with privacy standards like HIPAA. Visitors must feel confident that their information is safe and that your practice is trustworthy.
Key features are essential for a successful health and wellness site:
- Appointment Booking: A simple, integrated booking system allows clients to schedule, reschedule, and receive appointment reminders.
- Service Pages: Clear, informative service pages outline what you offer, the benefits, and any pricing details. These pages should be easy to navigate and optimized for SEO.
- Testimonials: Positive client reviews build trust. Featuring these prominently on your site helps potential clients see the value of your services.
A well-designed website with these features builds trust, enhances client experience, and boosts your practice’s growth.
How Professional Help with Website Overwhelm
Go with a pro! A professional web designer like me can take the stress out of managing your website by handling everything from design and updates to ongoing maintenance. With the right expertise, they ensure your site remains properly optimized, up-to-date, and functioning properly—helping you avoid technical issues and keep your site indexed correctly in search.
Beyond just functionality, a well-designed website that meets health and wellness industry standards is key to building trust with your audience because they really should come first. When your site looks polished, is easy to navigate, and aligns with best practices, it shows clients that you are serious, professional, and reliable. Remember, your website is an extension of you and your business and needs to be at its best so potential clients can trust and engage with your services.
To Recap
Remember, when it comes to website overwhelm, you’re not alone. Running a business involves prioritizing and delegating, and it’s important not to stress over aspects like your website—especially if it’s not something you enjoy. In the health and wellness industry, we teach our clients the value of preserving their peace, and it’s just as important for us to do the same. Focus on what you do best, and let go of the website overwhelm.
Need help with your website? Unsure where to start?
It’s okay to ask for help, especially if web design and website maintenance are NOT your thing. If you feeling stuck or overwhelmed by your website, I invite you to reach out for a consultation with Grassroots Creative Company through this link. I’m here to help take the stress off your plate and ensure your website works for you, not against you.
March 29, 2022
Date
Melonie Mottice
Author
The owner and designer behind Grassroots Creative Company an intentional website design and branding studio that serves health and wellness professionals ready to grow. I create intentional websites that are purposeful, strategic, and have a strong emphasis on branding and visual identity.
Taking a grassroots approach to web design means creating a website that is user-friendly, intuitive, and easy to navigate.
By using website platforms like Showit, I can focus on design elements that best represent your brand without worrying about the complexities of coding. The result: a timeless website that CONNECTS.
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