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As a Squarespace website designer for therapists and online coaches, I know firsthand all the tiny details that create an exceptional first impression. So if you're trying to DIY one on your own, then there is a steep learning curve, to be sure.

That's why I've decided to outline some common mistakes I see many new online business owners making when designing their website, with some tips to help you along the way.

If you're in the throws of creating your website for the very first time or you've had one for a while, I'm confident that these tips will help up your game and get that professional money maker you're looking for 😏

Mistake 1: Not changing the default Squarespace favicon

I can't tell you how many times I've seen this mistake on a "professional" website. I'll click through from Google, see a beautiful landing page with a clear tagline and easy navigation, and then right there in the corner - the generic favicon the business forgot to change!

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It's such a simple fix, but all too often is forgotten because it's a tiny detail. But tiny as it may be, it has a massive impact on the impression you are giving potential clients. As if your website is saying, “I’m generic.” “I’m just like everyone else.” or even, "Don't trust me, I don't pay attention to the little stuff." Yikes!

It doesn't have to be anything fancy. In fact, you can use your logo! Just upload something on-brand, and you are well on your way to a more professional and trustworthy site.

You can use a free resource, like Canva, to make one right now! Give it a try here! (That's an affiliate link!)

Mistake 2: A cluttered and complicated navigation bar

Nothing says unprofessional more than a cluttered and complicated navigation bar. If it takes a degree in neuroscience to figure out how to book a service, then you can kiss your sales goodbye - keep it simple, straightforward, and super easy for your website visitors.

Start by removing the "home" button. It's unnecessary since most internet users know that you click the logo or title to return to the homepage.

Then eliminate all of those social media links. 

"Say what?!" 

Yes, you heard me correctly! You've spent all of your time and energy directing website visitors from your social platforms to your website. You don't want to send them back. You can have links to your Insta and Facebook, but put them in your footer, on your about page, or lower down on your site instead. Not in your main navigation.

Next, move any link that doesn't lead to direct sales down to your footer. If it's not important enough to help people buy or book your services, then it's not worthy of being at the top. 

Less is more - try to limit your top links to five or fewer.

Finally, make your link names as simple as you can. While journal, diary, and story are all cute and creative names, they're not as straightforward as “blog.” This may seem boring to you, but it will be easier on your customers and, in return, lead to more sales.

Some standard link terms you can use: about | portfolio | blog | contact | services

Mistake 3: Low quality, unprofessional photos

We live in a visually-dominant world. This means your images need to be on point to keep your website visitors around, build trust, and lead them to buy your products and services.

The best thing you can do for your business is to get professional brand photos taken, but if this isn't quite in the budget, you can easily use stock images for the time being. Check out this blog post I wrote here: My top 3 go-to sites for stock photography to get started.

Mistake 4: Unclear and discreet calls to action

What is a "call to action"? 

A call to action is an invitation for your website visitor to do something - usually clicking a button. You want the stream from landing on your website to booking your service to be as smooth as possible by guiding your customers through the process.

Start by making sure you have a button on (at least) every page that leads to the number one thing you want them to do, whether to book a call, buy a product or sign up for a service. 

Then evaluate the rest of your site and place a call to action anywhere else it makes sense. For example, if you share a brief preview of your services on your homepage, then include calls to action for each one.

Whatever your call to action is, you want to make sure that it stands out. Make it large, colorful, or even give it a section all by itself so that there is no question for your website visitor on where they are supposed to click to go next.

Mistake 5: Missing legal pages

I look for a privacy policy on every single website I visit. Why? Because it's the number one indicator to me as to whether or not your business is legit. Not only does it make you look professional and trustworthy, but it's required by federal law - kind of a big deal.

A privacy policy is a legal agreement between you and your website visitors that explains what kinds of personal information you gather, how you use this information, and how you keep it safe. If you don't already have one, you can customize a privacy policy from The Contract Shop here (That's an affiliate link!)

While not required by federal law, a terms and conditions page is something that I recommend you have right alongside your privacy policy. It states how people can and cannot use your intellectual property, like your website text, graphics, and photos. You can also create a terms and conditions page with The Contract Shop here (That's an affiliate link!)

Once you have your legal pages, display them loud and proud in your footer for your website visitors to easily find! And that's it!

Are you ready for a cohesive and professional site supercharged with personality that reflects the quality of your service, backs your premium prices, and qualifies the right clients.