1. How visually appealing is your site? Studies show that web users tend to scan first, and then read. So if your site is not grabbing their attention, the likelihood of them staying on it long enough to read your content is negligible.

2. How easy is it to navigate your site and find what they are searching for?  Are your buttons clear, do your links take them to the right places? Is it “user friendly”. These space age sites with stuff that pops up all over the show and have special buttons that are required to open what feels like portals to other universes scare me senseless. I can navigate the web, but don’t go getting all technical on me.

3. What makes your website different? Does it look like everyone else’s? Does it reflect your brand and your company identity? A good design should echo your brand, including things that are authentic to you and your company. I was once told I should change my copy writing style on my site as its too informal. I refused. Why? Because this is me – I write like I speak, I always have – and those that work with me know that. Yes, my site echoes my brand exactly.

4. Is your website able to be used on mobile devices? Many companies forget about this aspect – but remember, the number of mobile users increases dramatically annually. You would be behind the times if you didn’t gear yourself for the new market.  Check with your designer that you are mobile enabled.

5. When last did you update the content on your site? Are people reading information that’s two years old? To tie in to the point above, people research things before they buy – they Google it before the touch it – constantly innovating with new products, new pictures and videos keeps your site moving and more easily found on the search engines – such as Google, Yahoo, Bing etc

6. Does your website make people believe in you? Does your site make people feel like you are a bona fida, reputable business that they would want to deal with? Things like testimonials and photos of yourself or your team getting involved in projects and the community can do so much to much to elevate your position in the industry – no one wants to feel like they are dealing with an automaton, don’t let your site give that impression.

Keep in mind that your website is usually the first interaction that people will have with you and your company. Make sure it gets your points across, in the right way that aligns with your company brand and positioning, and makes them want to hit that “Contact Us” button to get to meet the people behind the website.