Web Design

# 10 common website mistakes you might be making

8 Aug 2024 6 min read

In this post, we'll explore 10 common website mistakes that could be costing you clients, and, more importantly, how to fix them. Whether you're a DIY website builder or working with a designer, addressing these pitfalls can help you create a site that's visually appealing, user-friendly, and optimized for success.

Your website is often the first impression potential clients have of your business. But even with the best intentions, common design and functionality mistakes can quietly sabotage your site's performance, user experience, and overall effectiveness. From hard-to-read text and slow-loading images to neglected mobile design and missing privacy policies, these errors can turn visitors away before they have a chance to engage with your content or take action.

## 1. Difficult-to-read body text

One of the biggest mistakes is using overly stylized body text. Adding excessive tracking (space between letters) or leading (space between lines) for an airy look can make your text hard to read, increasing your bounce rate.

Solution:

- Keep tracking under 1px and leading around 125% of the font size.
- Perform a squint test: if the text becomes hard to read when you squint, reduce the spacing.

## 2. Not resizing images

Large image files can significantly slow down your website, causing visitors to leave if pages take too long to load. Aim for images to be between 300-500kb.

Solution:

- Use tools like Photoshop to resize images.
- Compress images using services like TinyPNG or Compressor.io.

## 3. Lack of clear call-to-actions

Visitors need guidance on what to do next. Without clear calls to action, they may leave without taking any desired actions.

Solution:

- Include explicit calls-to-action (e.g., "Book Now," "Contact Us," "Subscribe to Our Newsletter") as links or buttons on each page.

## 4. Unsecured website

Data privacy is critical. Without SSL certificates, visitor data can be vulnerable to hackers, undermining trust.

Solution:

- Follow instructions from platforms like Shopify or Squarespace to activate SSL.
- Use free SSL certificate authorities like Let's Encrypt if your domain provider doesn't offer one.

## 5. Excessive copy

Too much text can overwhelm visitors, leading to a higher bounce rate. On average, users spend only a few seconds reading content.

Solution:

- Avoid overcrowding pages with text.
- Use progressive disclosure to present information gradually, adding new pages or sections as needed.

## 6. Designing for yourself, not your audience

A website that reflects your personality might not resonate with your audience. Focus on their needs and the emotions you want to evoke.

Solution:

- Identify keywords that represent your brand's desired perception.
- Align your design elements (e.g., colours, layout) with these keywords.

## 7. Neglecting mobile design

With most digital media time spent on mobile devices, an afterthought mobile design can hurt user experience and business growth.

Solution:

- Use platforms with responsive templates like Squarespace for DIY sites.
- Develop a mobile strategy from the start if working with a designer.

## 8. Stale content

A static website won't attract new visitors or maintain good SEO rankings. Regularly updated content is essential.

Solution:

- Start a blog to keep content fresh.
- Use blog posts to include keywords, backlinks, and optimized images to boost SEO.

## 9. Too many navigation links

A cluttered homepage can overwhelm visitors. Simplify navigation to improve user experience and reduce bounce rates.

Solution:

- Consolidate primary navigation links.
- Group similar pages under broader categories.

## 10. Missing privacy policy

Every website that collects data needs a privacy policy to comply with legal requirements and build trust with visitors.

Solution:

- Consult with a lawyer to create a privacy policy.
- Alternatively, customize a template from sources like the Contract Shop.

Addressing these common website mistakes can enhance your website's effectiveness, improve user experience, and ultimately support your business growth. Get in touch with me today if you want an assessment done on your website to find potential mistakes that could be costing you clients.

## Related reading

Conversion

### Unlocking conversions: 5 key elements to turn website visitors into customers

Accessibility

### Designing for accessibility without sacrificing aesthetics

Strategy

### Why your homepage shouldn't try to do everything

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