It’s never been more crucial for South African businesses to have a strong web presence in 2024. Your website is very likely the very first impression potential customers will form of your business. As such, your website design should be pertinent, insightful, and user-friendly. That said, a multitude of design trends and functions are available to website owners. As a South African business owner, where do you begin? Here are 7 website design must-haves for every South African business in 2024.
1. Mobile-Friendly
The vast majority of South Africans are glued to their smartphones! In all probability, a large group of your total website traffic will be using their smartphones or mobile devices. This means your website must be ‘responsive’. A responsive website changes its layout to look great on any device, including desktops, tablets, and phones.
2. Fast Loading
Nobody enjoys waiting for a website to load. These days, our lives are so fast; we want things to happen immediately. If your website takes a long time to load, visitors will simply leave and go to your competitor. Important things must be optimised for speed.
3. Clear and Concise
South Africans like a clear explain. Your website copy should be easy to read and free of jargon. Clear call-to-actions, like “Contact Us Today” or “Shop Now”, are important to let visitors know what you want them to do.
4. High-Quality Images and Video
South Africans are visually focused. It is essential to utilise high-quality imagery and video to get people to your site, display your products or services, and tell your brand story.
5. Strong Search Engine Optimisation (SEO)
If you want South Africans searching for services or businesses like yours to find your site, you need great SEO. This simply means using the appropriate keywords throughout your web content, increasing the possibility that your website will rise up the ranks of search results.
6. Security and Trust Signals
South Africans are aware that there are websites that are not secure. Be sure your website is secure and consider showing various trust signals, for example, by utilising SSL certificates and by showing customer reviews.
7. Local Focus
If you are a South African business, then focus on engaging your local audience! Display at the very least your contact information, address if applicable, and any current promotions or specials you may have in South Africa.
By utilising these easy tips, you will surely help your South African business to succeed in 2024 and beyond. Keep in mind, an excellent website is an investment that will pay out for many years to come.
For professional website design services that incorporate all these essential elements, contact us today.