How To Create a Website for Small Business (Step-by-Step Guide)
- Vladyslav Bendasyuk
- Mar 24
- 31 min read
Updated: Mar 28
If you’re wondering how to create a website for a small business, you’re in the right place. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the steps to create a business website, from planning and design to launch and beyond.
A professional website not only boosts your credibility but also expands your reach, allowing you to connect with customers locally and globally. It’s a platform to showcase your products or services, share your story, and engage with your audience in meaningful ways.
By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear roadmap for how to create a website for your business that not only looks great but also drives real results. Whether you’re exploring how to build your website or seeking the best steps to create a business website, this guide will provide the tools and knowledge you need to succeed.
Before you dive in, grab our client onboarding website design project checklist. This handy tool will help you gather all the necessary items required to start a website for your small business.
Ready to take the next step? You can build your business’s online presence in just 90 days with our free e-book guide. It covers the 6 fundamental steps to creating a strong online presence tailored to your business.
Table of Content
Chapter 1. Planning Your Website
Define Your Goals (What's the Point of Your Website)
When learning how to create a website for small business, the first step is to define your goals. Why does your business need a website?
The benefits of having one are vast, ranging from increased revenue opportunities and brand awareness to unlocking new digital marketing channels and enhancing customer convenience. But to truly make the most of your website, you need to know exactly what you want to achieve with it.
Are you looking to integrate an online booking system so customers can easily schedule appointments?
Or perhaps you want to sell products through an e-commerce store?
Maybe your goal is to create a platform where customers can submit inquiries or learn more about your services.
From a marketing perspective, your website could serve as a tool to boost your visibility on Google through search engine optimization (SEO) or help you connect with diverse audiences via social media and other digital marketing channels.
Whatever your objectives, it’s essential to list them out clearly. This not only helps you stay focused but also simplifies the process of selecting the right website builder or platform.
Think of building a website as assembling different components tailored to your specific needs. If you know what you require, you can choose a platform that aligns with your goals, making the process of how to create a website for your business much smoother and more efficient.
By defining your goals upfront, you’ll be better equipped to create a website that not only looks great but also delivers real value for your small business.
Understand Your Target Audience
When figuring out how to create a website for small business, understanding your target audience is a critical step.
Knowing who will be browsing your website—and potentially becoming your customers—helps you craft engaging website copy, content, and design. This includes everything from the text and images to buttons, videos, and calls-to-action.
Your website is more than just a digital business card; it’s an opportunity to educate users about your business, brand, and offerings. By identifying your customers’ pain points, what they struggle with, you can tailor your content to address those challenges directly. Then, present your products or services as the solution, highlighting features that specifically tackle their needs.
But don’t stop there. Take it a step further by framing your features as benefits. Instead of just listing what your product or service does, focus on the desired outcome it delivers.
For example, if you’re selling a time-saving tool, emphasize how it gives your customers more freedom to focus on what matters most to them.
It’s also important to consider how your audience will use your website. Websites often serve multiple functions, so think about what your customers will need. If they’re likely to reach out to you, provide multiple contact options like forms, email, phone numbers, or even live chat. The more accessible you are, the more opportunities you create for engagement.
Understanding your audience’s online behaviour can also open doors to digital marketing opportunities. Your website can become the cornerstone of your business’s online presence, helping you connect with customers through SEO, social media, email campaigns, and more.
Research Your Online & Local Competitors
Here’s a truth that many businesses without an online presence are surprised to hear: just because you don’t have a website doesn’t mean it’s not hurting your business.
If people can’t find you online, they’ll likely turn to your competitors instead. That’s right, your lack of an online presence means you’re losing potential customers to competitors who are already dominating the digital space.
For those who do have an online presence, the key to staying ahead of the competition lies in a variety of strategies.
One of the most important steps is to analyze how your competitors use their websites to rank in search engines. Before even visiting their sites, start by typing common keyword phrases your customers might use into Google.
For example, if you’re a roofing company in Calgary, customers might search for terms like “Calgary roofing companies.” Take note of which businesses appear in the top three spots—these are the ones capturing the majority of clicks.
In fact, websites ranking in the top three positions on Google receive about 70% of all clicks for that search term.
While targeting highly competitive keywords like “Calgary roofing companies” can be challenging, there’s a smarter approach: focus on low-competition, long-tail keywords.
For instance, “affordable NW Calgary roofing companies” might have fewer monthly searches, but it’s easier to rank for and can still drive highly targeted traffic to your site.
This is just one example of how your online competitors are leveraging digital marketing opportunities to attract more customers.
By researching their strategies, you can identify their strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities.
For example, you might notice that they have individual web pages for different service locations, which helps them rank for local geographic search terms. These are called Local Landing Pages, and they’re a powerful way to attract a local audience.
The good news?
You don’t need to be a tech expert to implement this strategy. Many content management systems (CMS) allow you to create and update local landing pages effortlessly. Simply enter the relevant information into predefined fields, and the system will generate a new webpage for you—no coding required.
By taking the time to research your competitors, you’ll gain valuable insights into how to get a website for your business that stands out.
Whether you’re looking to start your own website business or wondering how do you make your own business website, understanding your competition is a crucial step toward building a strong online presence.
Web Design & Branding
When it comes to how to make a website for my business, design plays a crucial role in shaping how customers perceive your brand.
Let’s face it—if your website looks outdated or isn’t user-friendly, visitors are likely to leave and find a competitor with a more modern and polished site.
Your website is often the first impression customers have of your business, and it needs to be a memorable one. A well-designed website can leave a lasting positive impression, while a poorly designed one can drive potential customers away.
This is where web design comes into play.
Web design is more than just making a website look pretty—it’s about creating a seamless, engaging experience for your visitors. Unfortunately, web design is often underestimated, but understanding its key principles can make a world of difference.
In fact, good design can elevate the perceived value of your product or service, turning something that might sell for $50 into something that could cost $500.
Branding is another critical aspect of your website. It’s a powerful way to communicate your business’s identity and values. A strong, consistent brand leaves a positive impression, while a weak or inconsistent one can harm your reputation.
To ensure your branding is on point, consider creating a brand guideline kit or UI design guideline. These tools help maintain consistency across your website, from colours and fonts to the tone of voice used in your content.
Here are a few tips to ensure your website reflects your brand effectively:
Use your brand’s colours and fonts consistently across all pages.
Maintain a cohesive visual identity that aligns with your business’s personality.
Keep the tone of voice consistent to reinforce your brand’s messaging.
If you’re unsure where to start, it’s common to seek inspiration from other websites. In fact, we’ve compiled a list of over 2,000+ website designs on our Pinterest account. Whether you’re looking for business website design ideas or inspiration for website design for small business, this resource is a goldmine for anyone ready to create a standout website.
By focusing on web design for my business, you’ll not only create a visually appealing website but also build a strong, recognizable brand that resonates with your audience.
Chapter 2. Site Structure & Size
When learning how to create a website for small business, one of the most important factors to consider is the size and structure of your site.
Websites can range from a single page to thousands of pages, depending on your business needs. The great thing about building a website for your business is that it can be as simple or as complex as you want it to be.
However, the size of your website directly impacts its structure. Larger websites require careful planning, especially when it comes to navigation.
Even if you’re starting with just one page, it’s always a good idea to plan for future growth. A well-thought-out structure ensures your website remains user-friendly and scalable as your business expands.
Let’s break down the key sizes of websites for businesses:
Landing Page
A landing page is a single-page website, perfect for businesses just starting out or those who need something simple and straightforward.
This type of website typically includes:
Basic information about your business.
Highlights of your products or services.
A clear call-to-action (CTA), such as a contact form or phone number.
Landing pages are ideal for businesses looking to create a website for my business quickly without the need for complex features.
Small Website
Small websites usually consist of 2 to 50 pages and are designed for businesses that need a bit more functionality.
These websites often include features like:
SEO-optimized pages to improve search engine visibility.
Landing pages for specific services or locations.
E-commerce functionality for selling products online.
Online booking systems for appointments or reservations.
Blogs to share industry insights and updates.
Small websites are a great option if you’re exploring how to create your own website to sell things or want to incorporate tools to help grow your business.
Medium Website
Medium-sized websites range from 50 to 1,000 pages and are suitable for businesses with more extensive needs.
These sites often include:
Multiple categories of services or products.
Dedicated sections for blogs, resources, or customer support.
Advanced features like membership portals or learning management systems (LMS).
Large Website
arge websites have 1,000+ pages and are typically managed by a team to ensure content stays up to date. These sites often rely on content management systems (CMS) to handle the volume of pages and updates efficiently.
No matter the size of your website, planning its structure is key to creating a seamless user experience. Whether you’re building a simple landing page or a large-scale site, the best way to build a business website is to start with a clear plan and scalable structure. This ensures your website can grow alongside your business, meeting your needs now and in the future.
Chapter 3. Functionalities & Features
When figuring out how do I make a website for my business, it’s essential to consider the functionalities and features that will make your site not only functional but also successful. Every business website needs a combination of practical features and modern design to stand out and deliver a great user experience.
Modern Design
At first glance, design might not seem like a “feature,” but the truth is, good web design is something people only notice when it’s bad. We’ve all encountered outdated, clunky websites that were difficult to navigate—sites that made us want to leave and find a better alternative.
Your website’s design plays a huge role in shaping the user experience. There are many design approaches you can take, depending on your brand’s personality and goals:
Modern design: Sleek, clean, and professional.
Minimalist design: Simple, clutter-free, and focused on essentials.
Fun and creative design: Playful, colorful, and engaging, often with doodles or unique illustrations.
No matter which style you choose, one thing remains constant: your website’s design should reflect your branding. The most successful brands ensure their online presence—including their website—aligns with their identity. This means using consistent colors, typography, imagery, and even animations that reinforce your brand’s personality.
Before starting your website project, it’s common to gather design references or concepts that inspire you. If you’re looking for inspiration, check out Avansta’s Pinterest collection, which features over 2,000+ web designs to spark ideas for your own site.
By incorporating modern design and ensuring it aligns with your branding, you’ll create a website that not only looks great but also leaves a lasting impression on your visitors. This is a key step in learning how do I make a website for my business that truly stands out.
SEO
When learning how to create a website for business on Google, one of the most critical components to understand is SEO (Search Engine Optimization).
SEO is the practice of optimizing your website so it can be easily found on search engines like Google. After all, your customers are searching for products and services online, and if your business appears at the top of their search results, you unlock a powerful opportunity to attract new customers or clients.
While SEO might sound simple in theory, it’s a significant investment that requires time, effort, and strategy to see real results. Some industries are more competitive than others, which may demand a high-volume marketing strategy to stand out.
To fully grasp how SEO works, let’s break it down into its three main types, each with its own purpose and contribution to building a strong online presence:
On-Page SEO
On-page SEO focuses on optimizing individual web pages to rank for specific keywords. This involves conducting keyword research to identify the terms your customers are searching for. Then inserting those keywords in strategic locations on your website, such as titles, headings, meta descriptions, and content.
For example, if you include the keyword “Vancouver plumbing company” throughout a dedicated webpage, that page is more likely to appear when users search for that term or similar variations.
However, to improve your ranking for that keyword, you’ll need more than just on-page optimization—this is where off-page SEO comes into play.
Off-Page SEO
Off-page SEO is all about building your website’s authority through backlinks—links from other websites that point back to your site.
The more high-quality backlinks you have, the more trustworthy your website appears to Google, which can lead to higher rankings and more clicks.
However, acquiring backlinks from reputable sites like Facebook, Amazon, or major news outlets can be challenging. This is where a solid backlink-building strategy becomes essential, especially if you’re targeting competitive search terms.
Technical SEO
Technical SEO is the foundation of any successful SEO strategy. It ensures that Google and other search engines can easily crawl, index, and display your website to users.
While it might seem like the “boring” side of SEO, it’s absolutely crucial. Without proper technical SEO, even the best on-page and off-page efforts won’t yield results.
Here’s how it works: Google sends bots (often called “crawlers”) to your website to gather information, such as text, images, videos, and documents. This data is then stored in Google’s index, a massive library of web content.
When a user searches for something, Google pulls the most relevant results from its index to display on the search results page.
Technical SEO ensures your website is crawlable, indexable, and optimized for Google’s 200+ ranking factors. It’s all about making your site user-friendly and easy for search engines to understand.
In addition to these core types, there are other SEO strategies to consider. Local SEO focuses on improving your visibility in specific cities or towns, while International SEO helps you reach audiences in different countries.
Now there is also other SEOs such as local SEO focusing on improving your local visibility of cities and towns. And there is also international SEO focusing on reaching internal countries.
For a complete guide on how to get your website to show up on Google, be sure to read our in-depth resource. By mastering SEO, you’ll not only create a website that looks great but also one that attracts the right audience and drives meaningful results for your business.
Responsive Design
When learning how to create a website for a small business, one of the most important elements to consider is responsive design. But what exactly is responsive design, and why is it so important?
Responsive design ensures that your website looks and functions perfectly on any device, whether it’s a desktop, tablet, or smartphone. It automatically adjusts the layout, images, and content to fit the screen size of the device being used.
Why is Responsive Design Important?
A responsive website provides a seamless experience for visitors, no matter how they access your site. If your website isn’t mobile-friendly, users are likely to leave and find a competitor’s site that is.
Google prioritizes mobile-friendly websites in its search results. If your site isn’t responsive, it could hurt your chances of ranking well, making it harder for customers to find you.
A responsive design makes it easier for users to navigate your site, fill out forms, and make purchases, which can lead to higher conversion rates.
Surprisingly, many small businesses still don’t have a responsive website. According to recent studies, a significant percentage of small business websites are not optimized for mobile devices. This oversight can cost them valuable traffic, leads, and sales.
If you’re wondering how to start a website for a small business, prioritizing responsive design is a must. It’s not just a trend—it’s a necessity in today’s mobile-first world. By ensuring your website is responsive, you’ll create a better experience for your visitors, improve your search engine rankings, and ultimately grow your business.
Professional Copywriting
When learning how to create a website for a small business, one of the most overlooked yet essential elements is professional copywriting. But what exactly is professional copywriting, and why does it matter so much for your website?
Professional copywriting is the art of crafting compelling, clear, and persuasive text that communicates your brand’s message effectively. It’s not just about filling your website with words—it’s about creating content that resonates with your audience, builds trust, and drives action.
Your website’s copy is often the first interaction a potential customer has with your brand. Well-written content can make a strong first impression, while poor copy can drive visitors away.
Professional copywriting establishes your business as an authority in your industry. It shows that you understand your audience’s needs and can provide solutions.
The ultimate goal of your website is to convert visitors into customers. Strategic copywriting guides users through your site, encouraging them to take action—whether it’s making a purchase, filling out a form, or contacting you.
Great copywriting does more than just sell—it educates. By addressing your target audience’s pain points and offering solutions, you position your business as the answer to their problems.
For example:
Highlight the challenges your customers face.
Showcase how your product or service solves those challenges.
Emphasize the benefits and outcomes they can expect.
How SEO Plays into Copywriting
This approach not only builds trust but also makes it easier for users to see the value in what you’re offering, increasing the likelihood of conversion.
SEO and copywriting go hand in hand. By strategically inserting relevant keywords into your content, you can improve your website’s visibility on search engines like Google.
For example:
Use keywords naturally in headings, subheadings, and throughout the text.
Incorporate long-tail keywords that match your audience’s search intent.
Optimize meta descriptions and alt text for images.
However, SEO copywriting isn’t just about stuffing keywords—it’s about creating content that’s both search-engine-friendly and engaging for your audience.
Highlight Your Target Audience’s Pain Points and Outcomes
Effective copywriting speaks directly to your target audience. By understanding their struggles, desires, and goals, you can craft messages that resonate deeply. For instance:
If you’re a roofing company, address common concerns like “affordable roofing solutions” or “quick repair services.”
If you run an online store, emphasize convenience, quality, and customer satisfaction.
By focusing on your audience’s pain points and the positive outcomes they can achieve, you create a connection that drives engagement and conversions.
Professional copywriting is a cornerstone of successful web design. It educates, engages, and converts visitors into loyal customers. When planning how to create a website for a small business, investing in high-quality copywriting is a step you can’t afford to skip. It’s not just about what you say—it’s about how you say it and the impact it has on your audience.
Content Management System (CMS)
When exploring how can I build a website for my small business, one of the most powerful tools you’ll encounter is a Content Management System (CMS). But what exactly is a CMS, and how can it benefit your business? Let’s break it down.
A CMS is a software platform that allows you to create, manage, and update your website’s content without needing technical expertise or coding knowledge. One of its most valuable features is the ability to create dynamic pages—webpages that automatically update based on templates or user interactions.
For example, if you have a blog, a CMS can generate new blog posts using a predefined template, saving you time and ensuring consistency across your site.
A CMS simplifies website management, allowing you to update content, add pages, and make changes without relying on a developer. As your business grows, a CMS makes it easy to expand your website with new pages, features, and functionality.
What Kinds of Webpages Are Commonly Used for CMS?
A CMS is incredibly versatile and can be used to create a wide range of webpages, including:
Team Pages
Showcase your team members with bios, photos, and roles.
Product Pages
Highlight your products or services with detailed descriptions, images, and pricing.
Blogs
Share industry insights, company news, and helpful tips to engage your audience.
Events
Promote upcoming events, webinars, or workshops.
Careers
List job openings and provide information about your company culture.
By leveraging a CMS, you can easily scale your website as your business evolves, ensuring it continues to meet your needs and support your growth.
A CMS is an essential tool for anyone wondering how can I build a website for my small business. It simplifies content management, enhances scalability, and provides the flexibility to create a wide range of webpages.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand, a CMS can help you build a website that grows with your business.
Functionalities & Integrations
When you’re ready to create a website for your small business, one of the most exciting steps is deciding which functionalities and integrations to include.
These features can transform your website from a simple online presence into a powerful tool for growth and customer engagement. Here are some of the most common functionalities that small business websites often incorporate:
E-Commerce
If you sell products or services, an e-commerce functionality is a must. This allows you to set up an online store where customers can browse, add items to their cart, and complete purchases seamlessly.
Popular e-commerce platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce make it easy to create a website for small business that includes secure payment gateways, inventory management, and shipping options.
Custom Forms
Custom forms are incredibly versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes, such as:
Contact forms for inquiries or support requests.
Lead generation forms to capture potential customer information.
Feedback forms to gather customer opinions and improve your services.
These forms can be easily integrated into your website using tools like Google Forms, Typeform, or built-in CMS form builders.
Online Booking
For businesses that offer appointments, classes, or consultations, an online booking system is a game-changer. It allows customers to schedule services directly through your website, reducing the back-and-forth of phone or email communication.
Tools like Calendly or integrated booking plugins can streamline this process.
Memberships
If your business offers exclusive content, services, or products, a membership functionality can help you build a loyal customer base. Memberships allow you to create gated content, offer discounts, or provide premium features to registered users.
Platforms like MemberPress or membership plugins make it easy to set up and manage memberships.
Online Programs
For businesses that offer courses, workshops, or training programs, an online program functionality is essential. This allows you to host and sell digital courses, track student progress, and provide certificates of completion.
Platforms like Kajabi are popular choices for creating and managing online programs.
Email Marketing
Connect your website to email marketing tools like Mailchimp to build and nurture your email list.
By incorporating these functionalities, you can create a website that not only represents your business but also drives growth and enhances customer experience.
Whether you’re figuring out how to make your own website for small business or working with a developer, these features will help you build a site that meets your unique needs and goals.
Web Analytics Dashboard
When you’re learning how to make your own website to sell items, one of the most critical tools to incorporate is a web analytics dashboard. But why is web analytics so important, and how can it transform your website’s performance?
Web analytics provides valuable insights into how users interact with your website. It helps you understand:
Who your visitors are
Their demographics, location, and device usage.
What they’re doing
Which pages they visit, how long they stay, and where they drop off.
How they found you
Whether through search engines, social media, or direct traffic.
This data is essential for making informed decisions about your website’s design, content, and marketing strategies.
How GA4 is a Core Piece of Any Website
Google Analytics 4 (GA4) is the latest version of Google’s analytics platform and a must-have for any website. Unlike its predecessor, GA4 focuses on event-based tracking, providing a more comprehensive view of user behaviour.
By integrating GA4 into your website, you gain a deeper understanding of your audience and can optimize your site to drive better results.
Web analytics turns raw data into actionable insights. For example if you notice a high bounce rate on a specific page, you can investigate and improve its content or design.
Or if certain products are selling faster than others, you can adjust your inventory or marketing focus. Or if traffic from social media is low, you can refine your social media strategy to drive more visitors.
By leveraging analytics, you can make smarter decisions that enhance user experience, boost conversions, and ultimately grow your business.
Conversion Rate Optimization (CRO)
Once your website is live and you’re learning how to make your own website for a small business, the next step is to focus on Conversion Rate Optimization (CRO). But what exactly is CRO, and why does it matter?
CRO is the process of improving your website to increase the percentage of visitors who take a desired action, such as making a purchase, signing up for a newsletter, or filling out a contact form. It involves analyzing user behaviour, testing changes, and refining your site to maximize conversions.
Even small improvements in your conversion rate can have a massive impact on your business. For example:
A website with a 0.5% conversion rate might generate 50 sales from 10,000 visitors.
By optimizing your site to achieve a 1% conversion rate, you could double your sales to 100 from the same number of visitors.
This demonstrates how CRO can directly increase your revenue without needing to drive more traffic to your site.
By focusing on CRO, you can turn more of your website visitors into paying customers, making it an important step in how to make your own website for a small business that drives real results.
Chapter 4. Budget
When figuring out how to make your own business website, one of the most important factors to consider is your budget. Your budget directly impacts the final outcome of your website, from its design and functionality to its overall effectiveness in achieving your business goals.
Simply put, a larger budget allows for a more sophisticated website with advanced features, professional design, and expert management. On the other hand, a smaller budget might mean opting for a simpler, DIY approach. Here’s how it breaks down:
Bigger Budget: A professionally designed website with extensive functionality (e.g., e-commerce, online booking, custom integrations) will cost more but can deliver a polished, high-performing site tailored to your needs.
Smaller Budget: A basic website created using a DIY web builder can be cost-effective but may lack the customization and scalability of a professionally built site.
The key question to ask is: What objectives do I want my website to achieve?
If you need a simple website with just a contact form or basic information, a DIY solution like Wix or Squarespace might be sufficient. These platforms are affordable and user-friendly, making them ideal for beginners exploring how to start your own website business.
However, if your website needs to support complex functionalities like selling products, accepting online appointments, or integrating advanced marketing tools, investing in a professional web design agency is often the better choice. This allows you to focus on running your business while experts handle the technical aspects.
Cost Range for Websites
The cost of building a website can vary significantly based on your requirements:
DIY Websites: $200 - $1,000
Using platforms like Wix or WordPress with basic templates. This covers web platform subscription, domain hosting, and web hosting.
Professional Websites: $2,000 - $10,000
For custom responsive web designs and moderate functionality such as e-commerce, SEO, copywriting, CMS dynamic pages, and more.
Advanced Websites: $10,000 - $50,000
For large-scale, highly customized websites with advanced features and integrations
Your budget should align with your business goals. If you’re just starting out and need a simple online presence, a DIY approach might be the way to go. But if you’re serious about scaling your business and maximizing your website’s potential, investing in professional web design can pay off in the long run.
For a complete guide to understanding the average pricing of a website, check out our detailed resource here.
By carefully considering your budget and objectives, you’ll be better equipped to decide how to make your website—whether it’s a DIY project or a professionally crafted site that drives real results for your business.
Chapter 5. Web Platforms & Hosting
When you’re ready to start a business website, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is choosing the right web platform and hosting solution. There are many approaches to building a website, and each tool or software has its own unique strengths and weaknesses.
One of the most common methods for building a modern website is using a web builder platform. These platforms make it easy to design and launch a website, even if you have no technical experience. They range from beginner-friendly drag-and-drop builders to advanced AI-powered tools and responsive web builders.
The good news? There’s no “bad” web builder—each platform has its own functionality and is capable of creating a professional website. The key is understanding your website’s needs and selecting a platform that offers the right features for your business.
Here’s a breakdown of the most popular web builders to help you decide the best website for small business:
WIX is one of the most popular web builders, known for its user-friendly interface and flexibility. It’s a great option for beginners and small businesses looking to set up a website for business quickly.
Drag-and-Drop Editor
Easily design your website without any coding knowledge.
Feature-Rich
Offers a wide range of tools, including e-commerce, blogs, and appointment scheduling.
Hosting Included
Subscription plans cover hosting and custom domains.
App Market
Access to hundreds of third-party apps for added functionality.
Drawbacks
Can feel overwhelming for those who want less customization. Additionally, WIX has limitations for advanced customization and web development, limiting the potential for businesses needing more personalized solutions.
Best For
Small businesses looking for an all-around web builder with flexibility and ease of use. If you’re wondering how to create my own website for my business, WIX is a great starting point.
Squarespace is known for its stunning, design-focused templates and intuitive interface. It’s a strong choice for businesses that prioritize aesthetics and simplicity.
Drag-and-Drop Editor
Simple and easy-to-use design tools.
Aesthetic Templates
Professionally designed templates that are modern and visually appealing.
Built-In Features
Includes blogging, e-commerce, and analytics tools.
Hosting Included
All plans come with hosting and SSL security.
Drawbacks
Lacks some advanced features compared to other builders, such as extensive third-party integrations.
Best For
Creative businesses, artists, or anyone looking to make your own business website with a focus on design. It's best for businesses that are looking for a simple website.
Square Online is a straightforward e-commerce builder designed for businesses that want to sell online quickly. It’s especially useful for businesses already using Square’s POS system.
E-Commerce Focus
Built for online stores with easy product listing and payment processing.
Square POS
Covers hosting and integrates seamlessly with Square POS.
Quick Setup
You can start a business website in minutes with minimal effort.
Drawbacks
Very minimal and basic, with limited customization options.
Best For
Small businesses already using Square POS or those needing a simple e-commerce site to start website for small business.
Webflow is a powerful platform that combines design flexibility with advanced functionality. It’s ideal for businesses that want full control over their website’s design and performance.
Responsive Design
Create fully customizable, responsive websites without coding.
Hosting Included
Offers fast, reliable hosting with built-in SEO tools.
Advanced Customization
Supports HTML, CSS, and JavaScript for complete design freedom.
CMS Capabilities
Easily manage dynamic content like blogs or product listings.
Drawbacks
Steep learning curve for beginners.
Best For
Businesses with design expertise or those looking to build your own company website with advanced customization.
WIX Studio is an upgraded version of WIX, offering more advanced design capabilities while maintaining the ease of use WIX is known for.
Responsive Design
Builds on WIX’s backend with added flexibility for custom layouts.
Drag-and-Drop Editor
Easy-to-use interface with more design control.
Hosting Included
Covers hosting and offers scalable plans.
Drawbacks
Still new, with some performance issues reported.
Best For
Businesses familiar with WIX that want more advanced features to make your own business website.
Shopify is the go-to platform for e-commerce businesses. It’s designed to help you scale your online store with ease.
E-Commerce Powerhouse
Best for building and scaling online stores.
Hosting Included
Covers hosting and offers secure payment processing.
App Store
Access to thousands of apps for added functionality.
SEO and Marketing Tools
Built-in features to help you attract and convert customers.
Drawbacks
Higher cost compared to other platforms, with a learning curve for beginners.
Best For
Businesses focused on e-commerce and online sales. If you’re looking for the best way to make a business website for selling products, Shopify is a top choice.
WordPress is the most flexible and scalable platform, making it a favourite for businesses with complex needs or long-term growth plans.
Scalability
Best for growing businesses with advanced requirements.
Customization
Open-source platform with thousands of themes and plugins.
SEO-Friendly
Highly customizable for optimizing search engine performance.
Hosting Options
Self-hosted (you choose your hosting provider) or WordPress.com (hosting included).
Drawbacks
Steep learning curve and requires more technical knowledge.
Best For
Businesses looking for complete control and long-term scalability. If you want to start your own website business with room to grow, WordPress is ideal.
Choosing the Right Platform
The best way to make a business website depends on your specific needs. If you’re just starting out and want a simple, user-friendly solution, platforms like WIX or Squarespace are great options.
If you’re building an online store, Shopify or Square Online might be the better choice.
For businesses planning to scale, WordPress or Webflow offers the flexibility and customization you’ll need.
By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each platform, you can set up a website for business that aligns with your goals and budget. Whether you’re looking to make your own business website or hire a professional, the right web platform is the foundation for your online success.
Chapter 6. Approaches to Web Design
When it comes to how to create a website for my business, one of the great things about the process is the variety of approaches available. Whether you’re a hands-on DIY enthusiast or prefer to leave it to the professionals, there’s a method that suits your goals, budget, and skill level.
Let’s explore the two main approaches: DIY and professional web design.
DIY (Do It Yourself)
With modern web builders, it’s easier than ever to build a website for my business on your own. In fact, many professional web designers started their careers by building their own websites!
However, there’s a common misconception that web design is easy, which leads some to wonder why web designers, agencies, or freelancers even exist.
The truth is, while building a basic website is straightforward, creating a feature-rich, high-performing site can be more challenging and time-consuming than most people realize—especially if you’ve never built a website before.
That said, DIY web design is a fantastic option if:
You want a simple website with basic functionality.
You have some experience building websites and enjoy the process.
You’re on a tight budget and willing to invest time to learn new skills.
Modern web builders make it easy to get started with
Drag-and-Drop Editors
No coding required—just click, drag, and design.
Pre-Built Templates
Choose from hundreds of templates tailored to different industries and needs.
AI Tools
Some platforms use AI to help you design components or even entire websites.
While DIY web design can be fun and rewarding, it’s important to recognize its limitations. Your website’s quality will depend on the knowledge, time, and money you invest. If you’re looking to make a website for my business that’s simple and cost-effective, DIY is a great starting point.
Professional
For businesses looking to grow their online presence or upgrade an existing website, hiring professionals is often the best approach. A professionally built website can establish a stronger online presence, boost customer confidence, and unlock new revenue opportunities.
When you work with a company to build my website, such as a freelancer, web design agency, or development company, you gain access to expertise and resources that can take your website to the next level. Here’s what professional web design offers:
Custom Solutions
Professionals tailor your website to meet your specific business goals, whether that’s selling products, generating leads, or improving brand awareness.
Feature-Rich Designs
From e-commerce integrations to advanced SEO optimization, professionals ensure your website has everything it needs to succeed.
Time Savings
Instead of spending hours learning and building, you can focus on running your business while experts handle the technical details.
A professionally built website is ideal if:
You want a polished, high-performing site that stands out from competitors.
You need advanced features like online booking, membership portals, or custom forms.
You’re ready to invest in a website that drives real results for your business.
Which Approach is Right for You?
The approach you choose depends on your goals, budget, and resources. If you’re just starting out and want to how do I create a website for my business on a budget, DIY web design is a great option.
However, if you’re serious about growing your business and need a website that delivers results, hiring professionals is the way to go.
Whether you decide to build a website for my business yourself or work with a company to build my website, the key is to align your approach with your business objectives. By doing so, you’ll create a website that not only looks great but also helps you achieve your goals.
Chapter 7. Testing & Optimization
Once you’ve figured out how to create a website for my online business, the work doesn’t stop after the site goes live. Testing and optimization are critical steps to ensure your website performs well, delivers a seamless user experience, and drives conversions. Let’s break down the key areas of testing and optimization:
User Testing
After your website is completed, one of the final steps is conducting user testing. This ensures that your website works flawlessly on all devices and screen sizes, providing an effortless experience for every visitor.
Why is this important? Many businesses invest in a new website but skip the crucial step of testing it thoroughly. This can lead to minor—or even major—issues being discovered by customers instead of being fixed beforehand.
Common problems include:
Buttons or links that don’t work properly.
Responsive design issues that make the site look broken on certain devices.
Slow loading times or performance issues that frustrate users.
By testing all webpages on various screen sizes (desktop, tablet, and mobile), you can catch and fix these issues before they impact your customers. This step is essential if you need to create a website for my business that truly delivers a professional experience.
Customer Experience & Marketing Funnel Optimization
Your website isn’t just a digital brochure—it’s a powerful tool for guiding users through the marketing funnel. To optimize your site for this purpose, consider the following:
Visual Hierarchy
Design your website to guide users naturally from the top to the bottom of the page. Use clear headings, subheadings, and calls-to-action (CTAs) to lead them through the process of learning about your business and converting into a customer.
Educational Content
Provide valuable information that addresses your customers’ pain points and positions your product or service as the solution.
Clear CTAs
Make it easy for users to take the next step, whether that’s signing up for a newsletter, making a purchase, or booking an appointment.
By optimizing your website for the marketing funnel, you can turn casual visitors into loyal customers. This is a key step in learning how to start your website business that drives real results.
For a complete breakdown of the marketing funnel, read our complete guide to learning the marketing funnel in digital marketing.
Post-Conversion Experience
The customer journey doesn’t end after a conversion. In fact, optimizing the post-conversion experience is just as important as attracting leads in the first place.
Here’s how your website can continue to engage customers after they’ve converted:
Email Automation
Send automated confirmation emails after a purchase or appointment booking. This reassures customers and keeps your brand top-of-mind.
Text Message Reminders
Use SMS notifications to remind customers about upcoming appointments or deliveries.
CRM Integration
Add new contacts to your Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system to streamline follow-ups and nurture long-term relationships.
A well-optimized post-conversion experience not only enhances customer satisfaction but also encourages repeat business and referrals.
Whether you’re figuring out how to create a website for my online business or optimizing an existing site, testing and optimization are essential for success. They ensure your website is user-friendly, aligns with your marketing goals, and delivers a seamless experience from the first click to post-conversion.
Chapter 8. Pre-Launch & Launch
Before you officially open your website to the world, there are several critical steps to ensure everything runs smoothly. From tracking user behaviour to making sure your site is visible on Google, these pre-launch tasks are essential for establishing a website for your business that’s ready to succeed.
For a complete list of tasks, download our free website launch checklist.
One of the first steps in the pre-launch phase is setting up Google Analytics 4 (GA4). This powerful tool helps you track user behaviour on your website, providing valuable insights into how visitors interact with your site.
GA4 allows you to monitor metrics like page views, bounce rates, and conversion rates, helping you identify areas for improvement.
By analyzing this data, you can optimize your website to enhance user experience and achieve your business goals.
Setting up GA4 is a must if you want to understand your audience and make data-driven decisions for your website.
Next, set up Google Search Console (GSC) to ensure your website is indexed and can be found on Google.
GSC helps you monitor your website’s performance in search results, identify indexing issues, and optimize for SEO.
By submitting your sitemap and checking for errors, you can ensure your webpages are properly indexed and visible to users searching for your products or services.
If you’re wondering how to make your website show up on Google, GSC is your go-to tool for improving search visibility.
Favicon
A favicon is a small icon that appears in the browser tab next to your website’s title.
A favicon adds a professional touch to your website and helps users easily identify your site when multiple tabs are open. It enhances brand recognition and improves the overall user experience.
Social Sharing Image
When your website content is shared on social media, a social sharing image (or Open Graph image) is what users see.
A well-designed social sharing image increases click-through rates and makes your content more appealing. It ensures your website looks professional and engaging when shared on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
Software Integration
Integrate all necessary software to ensure your website functions as intended.
From email marketing tools to CRM systems, software integrations streamline operations and enhance functionality.
Ensure all tools are connected and working properly before launch to avoid disruptions.
By following these pre-launch steps, you’ll be ready to open my business website with confidence. From setting up GA4 and GSC to integrating software and testing payments, these tasks ensure your website is fully optimized and ready to deliver results.
For a detailed checklist to guide you through the process, download our free website launch checklist today.
Chapter 9. Post-Launch Support
Once you’ve figured out how to create a website for your business and successfully launched it, the work doesn’t stop there. Post-launch support is crucial to ensure your website remains functional, up-to-date, and aligned with your business goals.
Here are the main options for managing your website after it goes live:
In-House Team
One of the most common approaches to post-launch support is having an in-house team manage your website.
This can be done by yourself or another team member who is familiar with your website’s content management system (CMS).
Benefits of an In-House Team:
Full control over updates and changes.
Immediate access to make adjustments as needed.
Cost-effective if you already have the skills in-house.
Best For:
Businesses with the resources and expertise to handle website management internally.
If you’re comfortable using a CMS like WordPress, WIX, or Squarespace, managing your website in-house can be a practical and efficient solution.
Professional Website Maintenance
For businesses that prefer to focus on their core operations, hiring professionals for website maintenance is a great option.
A web design agency or freelancer handles updates, security, and performance optimization on your behalf.
Benefits of Professional Website Maintenance:
Access to expert knowledge and skills.
Regular updates and proactive maintenance to prevent issues.
Saves time and ensures your website stays in top shape.
Best For:
Businesses that want a hands-off approach and prefer to leave website management to the experts.
Professional maintenance is ideal if you want to ensure your website remains secure, up-to-date, and optimized for performance without lifting a finger.
Pay-As-You-Go
If your website only requires occasional updates, a pay-as-you-go model might be the best fit.
You’re charged an hourly rate, and updates are made only when you need them.
Benefits of Pay-As-You-Go:
Most affordable option for minimal changes.
Flexibility to request updates as needed.
No long-term commitments or contracts.
Best For:
Businesses with a stable website that only requires occasional tweaks or updates.
This option is perfect if you’re looking for a cost-effective way to manage your website without ongoing expenses.
Choosing the Right Post-Launch Support
The approach you choose depends on your business’s needs, budget, and resources. If you’re comfortable managing your website internally, an in-house team might be the way to go.
If you prefer to focus on running your business, professional maintenance or pay-as-you-go services can provide the support you need.
By investing in post-launch support, you’ll ensure your website continues to perform well, deliver a great user experience, and support your business goals long after the initial launch. This is a key step in mastering how to create a website for your business that stands the test of time.
Conclusion
Creating a website for your small business is one of the most impactful steps you can take to grow your brand, attract customers, and increase revenue.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your existing site, understanding how to create a website for small business is the key to building an online presence that works for you.
From defining your goals and understanding your target audience to choosing the right platform and optimizing for SEO, every step of the process plays a crucial role in your website’s success. And once your site is live, ongoing support and optimization ensure it continues to deliver results for your business.
Let’s discuss your business goals and how we can create a website that drives real results. Book your free discovery meeting today!
Want to dive deeper? Download our free e-book, How to Build a Business’s Online Presence in 90 Days, and discover the step-by-step process to establishing a powerful online presence.
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