Simple Website Optimization Tips for Small Businesses

Is your website pulling its weight, or is it just sitting there looking pretty?•  If you’re like most small business owners, your website probably isn’t performing as well as it could be. The good news? You don’t need a degree in web development or a massive marketing budget to make real improvements. With a few simple website optimization tips, you can turn your site into a powerful tool that drives traffic, captures leads, and boosts your bottom line.

I’m Frank Deardurff, also known as “That One Web Guy,” and for over 25 years, I’ve helped small business owners transform their underperforming websites into profit-generating machines. In my latest book, “Unlocking Website Profits: 15 Overlooked Keys to Boost Your Business Online,”  I dive deep into practical, actionable strategies that anyone can use—no tech expertise required. 

Here’s a sneak peek at some simple website optimization tips you can start using today to see real results.

1. Speed Up Your Website—Because Every Second Counts

• Did you know that a one-second delay in load time can cost you 7% of your conversions?  That’s right—speed matters. If your site takes forever to load, visitors won’t stick around. Here’s how to fix it:
• Optimize Your Images:  Use compressed images and the right formats (JPEG for photos, PNG for graphics) to reduce load times.
• Minimize Plugins:  Too many plugins slow your site down. Keep only the essential ones.
• Leverage Browser Caching:  Store some of your site’s data in visitors’ browsers to speed up their next visit.

These quick fixes can shave precious seconds off your load time, keeping visitors on your site longer—and more likely to convert.

2. Make Your Call-to-Action (CTA) Impossible to Miss

Your CTA is the star of the show. If it’s hiding in the background, you’re missing out on sales. Make it  bold, clear, and action-oriented —tell visitors exactly what you want them to do next.

• Use Strong, Action-Oriented Language:  Instead of “Submit,” try “Get Your Free Guide Now!” or “Claim Your Discount.”
• Use Contrasting Colors:  Your CTA button should stand out from the rest of your page. Use a color that pops and grabs attention.
• Place CTAs Above the Fold:  Make sure visitors see your CTA without having to scroll.

3. Optimize for Mobile Users—Or Lose Half Your Traffic

More than half of all web traffic comes from mobile devices. If your site doesn’t look good or work smoothly on a phone, you’re turning away potential customers before they even get started.

• Use Responsive Design:  Ensure your site adjusts automatically to fit any screen size.
• Simplify Navigation:  Mobile users are navigating with their thumbs—make sure your menu is easy to access and use.
• Test on Multiple Devices:  Don’t just assume your site looks good on mobile—test it on different devices and fix any issues.

4. Use Social Proof to Build Trust

Social proof—like testimonials, reviews, and case studies—gives potential customers the confidence they need to choose you over the competition. It’s one of the simplest ways to boost conversions without spending a dime.

• Display Testimonials on Your Homepage:  Make sure your best customer feedback is front and center.
• Include Star Ratings on Product Pages:  If you sell products, star ratings help build credibility and guide purchasing decisions.
• Show Off Client Logos or Media Mentions:  If you’ve worked with big names, let your visitors know. It’s a trust signal that sets you apart.

5. Improve Your Site’s SEO to Get Found Online

SEO doesn’t have to be intimidating. Start with the basics: use relevant keywords, create valuable content, and make sure your site is structured in a way that search engines understand.

• Use Keywords Naturally:  Sprinkle relevant keywords throughout your content, but don’t overdo it—write for humans first, search engines second.
• Optimize Meta Descriptions and Title Tags:  These show up in search results and play a big role in whether someone clicks on your link.
• Create High-Quality Content:  Regularly update your blog or resource pages with valuable information that addresses your audience’s pain points.

6. Track Your Success with Analytics

• What gets measured gets improved.  Use tools like Google Analytics to track your website’s performance, identify what’s working, and spot areas that need improvement.
• Monitor Traffic Sources:  See where your visitors are coming from—social media, search engines, or direct visits.
• Check Bounce Rates:  High bounce rates can indicate problems with your site’s content, design, or load speed.
• Set Conversion Goals:  Whether it’s a newsletter sign-up or a purchase, set goals in your analytics dashboard and track your progress.

 Ready for More?

These tips are just the beginning. In  “Unlocking Website Profits: 15 Overlooked Keys to Boost Your Business Online,”  I go deeper into each of these strategies—and cover 10 more—that can help you turn your website into a real business asset. If you’re tired of guessing what’s wrong with your site and want clear, actionable steps to fix it, this book is your roadmap.

• Get your copy today and start unlocking the hidden profits in your website!