You’re probably aware of how important a website is for business success, right? In the modern age, not being online is akin to not existing. However, as soon as you delve into the wonders of the web, you can boost your custom base beyond your wildest dreams. At least, that’s the hope.
But, you don’t need me to tell you that. Chances are that you’re already set up and using a website to spread your message. You aren’t living under a rock, after all. So, we’re not going to talk about setting up. Instead, we’re going to focus on an issue far fewer entrepreneurs manage to work around – slow websites.
While not being online is the worst thing you can do, a slow website comes in as a close second. In fact, it’s thought that 40% of visitors abandon a site that takes more than 3 seconds to load. So, no pressure…
The good news is if you do receive complaints about speed, there are some simple fixes. And, lucky for you, we’re going to look at some here.
Cut back on advertisements
Most website owners turn to advertisements for extra revenue. As long as they aren’t competitors, what’s the harm? Well, having too many ads on your page can slow things down. That only worsens if your website is running interactive advertisements. Placing a sponsored video in your sidebar, for example, could do real damage to your load time. One thing’s sure – this is no way to win the website race.
If you’re worried about losing money by cutting ads, think about that 40% statistic. Then weigh up how much you earn per ad compared to the cost of a slow-loading site. Chances are that the amount you make is nowhere near what you lose. So it may be time to get rid of some of those ads.
Hosting in the clouds
There are a variety of cloud solutions and services for business. For the most part, these solutions help with data storage and backup. What you might not realize is that they can also help with your loading times. By hosting your site in your business cloud, you can use the power of multiple servers rather than just one. It doesn’t take a genius to work out that’s a better deal. Why run on two legs, when you could run on six?
Keep things simple
In some cases, your site is your one chance to impress. It’s undoubtedly the only interaction your long-distance customers will have with you. It makes sense that you’d want to cram as much on your page as possible. What about all those pictures of your products and your teams? However, the more information you include on your website, the longer your loading time will be. Just as ads slow things down, large pictures will do the same. Instead, try to put up as few photos as possible. With a little intelligent photography, you should be able to say it all in nothing more than a few snaps.
