Considering why you build a website for your organization will help you know what to include and what response to encourage. The “why” for your website can vary depending on the age or your company, the size of your company and the type of business you are building. Let’s consider a couple of different reasons for a website and how the “why” impacts your content and your ask. If you are just starting out on the small business journey, your “why” may be because “you are supposed to have a website”. It may be adding legitimacy or supporting initial word of mouth exposure. A business with this type of “why” should be sure to include some key website features: 1. The business name prominently displayed. 2. The owner’s name prominently displayed. (Include any one else that will have a public role). 3. Your primary product or service. 4. The geographic area you desire to reach. These items will be the primary keywords for your website. Your “ask” will generally focus around the easiest way for you to interact with people. This could be a phone call. If phone is the way you want people to respond, place your phone number prominently and repeatedly. You don’t want to put website visitors on a scavenger hunt for how to reach you. Email or a form are other potential responses. Whatever your ask, make it obvious. A different why will result in a different focus and potentially a different ask. We will explore more reasons behind a website in future blog posts. But we encourage you to spend some time exploring your “why” and evaluate if your website serves your purpose. Need help? Let us know and we will be glad to offer feedback.