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What every small business website needs

A small business website doesn't need to be fancy. It needs to answer a customer's questions in a few seconds and make it easy to take the next step.

1. A phone number you can tap

Most local searches happen on a phone, and most of those people want to call. Put a tap-to-call button at the top of every page, not buried in the footer.

2. Hours and location, front and center

"Are they open?" and "Where are they?" are the two most common questions. Show your hours, address, and a map link where nobody has to hunt for them.

3. A clear list of what you do

Say exactly what you offer in plain words. "Drain cleaning, water heaters, and emergency repairs" is better than "Your #1 choice for all your plumbing needs."

4. Proof that you're good

Reviews, photos of real work, and how long you've been in business build trust fast. People want to see that others had a good experience before they call.

5. An easy way to reach you

Not everyone wants to call. A short contact form or quote request, with only the fields you actually need, will bring in customers who would never pick up the phone.

6. Speed

If a site takes more than a few seconds to load, people leave. Keep pages light, compress images, and test the site on your own phone.

7. A Google Business Profile

Your website and your Google Business Profile work together. A complete profile with your hours, photos, and reviews is often the first thing customers see when they search for you.

8. Keep it current

An old holiday notice or a "coming soon" page tells customers you're not paying attention. Update hours, prices, and photos whenever they change.

Need help with any of this? Hometown Web Co., founded by Arun, designs and hosts websites for local businesses, starting with a free mockup.