Use Your Website To Strengthen Business During A Recession

A recession can be a trying time for businesses of all sizes. While there is no foolproof way to guarantee success during this period, making website updates and changes can help you protect your business and customers. The Shoreline Chamber of Commerce knows the challenges that small business owners face, which is why we have compiled a list of steps that will help make this transition easier.

Improve Navigation

One of the most important things you can do to improve your website is to update the navigation. Make sure it is easy for customers to find what they are looking for with clear labeling on pages, categories, or tabs. Additionally, consider adding search bars or drop-down menus on each page so that customers can quickly move around on the site.

Update Blog Content

Blogging helps provide fresh content to engage website visitors as well as build trust in customers who may be leery of buying from a business during a recession. Keep updating blog posts with relevant content that is useful and informative for readers, and make sure it includes SEO factors that will help your blog show up at the top of search engines. Additionally, consider sharing blog posts on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, which will help expand your reach.

Encourage Customer Reviews

Customer reviews are an important part of establishing trust with potential buyers during a recession. Ask existing satisfied customers to leave positive reviews on your website so that new visitors will feel comfortable buying from you even in uncertain economic times. You can add their written reviews beneath products or even create a video testimonial that will show new customers exactly what your business has to offer.

Update E-commerce Tools

If you are selling products or services online through your website, then it’s important to update e-commerce tools such as payment methods and checkout processes regularly to ensure customer satisfaction and security. Consider adding additional payment options such as PayPal or Apple Pay. Keeping the e-commerce section of your site in good working order will also help build up trust within your customer base.

Make Sure The Site Is Consistent With Your Brand

Make sure all content on the site accurately reflects your brand’s messaging and values. Otherwise, customers may become confused about who you are and what you offer, which could lead them away from purchasing. It’s also important that all images and graphics match your visual identity, and that the content you share across social media remains consistent.

Build Coding Skills

Broken links or pages can damage credibility and create frustration among users if not addressed quickly enough, so having basic coding skills can help identify these issues quickly before they become too much of an issue. Additionally, having coding knowledge helps make sure all changes made across different browsers (Chrome/Firefox/Safari) remain consistent across platforms so customers have the best experience possible when visiting your store, regardless of device type. Look for online tutorials that will help you learn basic coding skills, or consider taking classes and getting certified.

Use PDFs For Security

PDFs can be used on websites for various reasons, such as providing instructions on how items need assembling once delivered; offering helpful information related to customer service; or providing step-by-step processes related to making purchases. They also provide peace of mind by protecting both businesses and consumers alike while making transactions online, especially during uncertain times when people may be more worried about providing sensitive information. You can use a PDF filler to have customers fill out and sign important documents, which will give both of you peace of mind.

During times of economic uncertainty, businesses must take proactive steps to protect themselves from financial harm by updating their websites accordingly. By adding things like PDF tools and customer testimonials, you can offer protection for your customers as well as give them some insight into exactly what your business can offer. When times are tough, it's important to build this kind of relationship with your audience.

The Shoreline Chamber of Commerce can help you work on your small business goals. Contact us today to learn more about our resources.