It goes without saying that that your web design is the most critical component when you consider how you engage your customers. Many independent research sources declare that at least 84% of consumers check out companies online before purchasing a product or service. Some claim it is even higher.

I could share endless case studies that compare the same product or competing products sold on two different sites. My claim would be that a large majority of consumers will absolutely buy from the company with the better website. Recently a client shared that after we re-designed their website they never get people questioning the authenticity of the certifications that they offer after training and overall business naturally thrived. A professional website will do that for any business, guaranteed.

Now enter Google Instant Preview! If you haven’t noticed you can preview, using the magnifying glass icon, a website link with a visual thumbnail prior to clicking a link in your Google search results. Naturally this perfect for a “want it now” society. We all want things delivered faster and Google has made searching for the reputable company faster. You will no longer need to load a website and then close it once you realize you have landed on a bad looking website that you assume lacks a strong reputation.

Potential customers might never get to read what your website has to offer if the page looks so poor that it is never clicked on.

This without a doubt makes a strong visual first impression, your web design, a requirement more than ever.