12 Steps to Create A Small Business Website [2024 Full Guide]

"I need a website, but I don't know where to start!" Sound familiar? Many small business owners feel this way. You're an expert in your field, not web design. But don't let that stop you from getting online.

We'll walk you through how to create a small business website, making it simple and stress-free. From planning to maintenance, we've got you covered.

Let's dive in and get started on building your website right now!

How to Create a Small Business Website

To create a small business website:

That was just a quick overview. Follow these step-by-step instructions where I’ve thoroughly explained each step:

Step 1: Pick a User-Friendly Website Building Platform

A website builder is a tool that lets you create and design a website without coding, using pre-made templates and drag-and-drop features. A user-friendly platform makes building your site easier. It saves time and frustration, especially if you're new to website creation.

There are hundreds of website builders available in the market. Hence, it's important that you choose the right one that fits your specific needs.

So, consider the following before choosing a website builder for your small business:

Read Also: A Comprehensive Guide to Mobile First Design

As a small business owner, you're juggling multiple responsibilities. The last thing you need is a complicated website builder that eats up your valuable time. That's where Dorik comes in, offering a solution tailored to your needs.

You're looking for a platform that's easy to use but powerful enough to create a professional-looking site. Dorik's drag-and-drop builder lets you create stunning websites without any coding knowledge. Imagine being able to design your site as easily as you arrange furniture in your shop or office.

Time is money, and you can't afford to spend weeks learning a new tool. With Dorik, you can have your website up and running in minutes. Its intuitive interface means you'll spend less time figuring out how to use it and more time focusing on what you do best – running your business.

Worried about standing out from your competitors? Dorik's AI-powered features can give you an edge. You can generate unique content and images that resonate with your audience, all within the platform. No need to hire expensive copywriters or designers – Dorik's AI acts as your personal creative assistant.

As your business grows, your website needs might change. Dorik grows with you, offering scalable solutions from simple landing pages to complex e-commerce sites. You won't outgrow this platform as your business expands.

Keeping your site updated is crucial, but it can be a hassle. Dorik's user-friendly CMS makes it easy to update your content regularly, ensuring your customers always have the latest information about your products or services.

Budget concerns? Dorik offers affordable plans that give you professional-grade features without breaking the bank. You get the tools you need to compete with bigger businesses, all at a price point that respects your small business budget.

Remember, your website is often the first impression potential customers have of your business. With Dorik, you can ensure it's a great one, reflecting the quality and professionalism of your small business. It's not just about building a website; it's about building your online presence and growing your business.

Let's find out how you can create your small business website with dorik in minutes.

Dorik equips you with three distinct website-building methods as follows:

1. Creating a Small Business Website with AI:

This method is ideal for small business owners, entrepreneurs, or anyone looking for a quick, professional website with minimal effort.

If you're short on time or design skills, Dorik's AI website builder is your best bet. This method uses advanced artificial intelligence to generate a complete website based on your description. It's perfect if you need a professional-looking site quickly and don't want to worry about design details.

Here’s how you can create a stunning website for your small business using AI:

1. Sign up or Login (if you already have an account) to Dorik.

2. Navigate to 'AI Sites (beta)' on your dashboard.

3. Click on "Create New Site with AI".

4. Enter your website name, write a detailed prompt, and select your preferred language from the dropdown.

Remember, this step alone decides the AI's output. So, the more specific and detailed your prompt, the more accurate the result you’ll get. You can get help from the example prompts (4) to get some idea on how to write the prompt.

5. Click "Generate Your Website" and wait for a moment while Dorik AI does its magic. Your website will be ready within a few seconds.

Note: You can always change the design of the entire page or a particular section if you’re not satisfied with the result.

Here’s a website I created while writing this article:

Prompt Used: “Create a website for NYCFoodie, a fast food shop based in New York City, offering online ordering and delivery. Use #FBC422 as the primary color and #EE4E4E as the secondary color. Include sections for menu, online ordering, delivery process, and contact information. The design should be modern and appetizing, emphasizing quick service and delicious NYC-style fast food.”

See how easy it is to create your website with AI? You can create as many pages and sections as you want using this powerful tool.

2. Creating a Website for Your Small Business Using a Template:

Dorik’s templates are ideal for those seeking industry-specific designs or who want a more guided approach to website creation.

You might wonder, "Why use a template when AI can create a website?" Great question! While AI is powerful, templates offer unique advantages:

Expert-designed layouts ensure professional aesthetics, especially beneficial if you're unsure about design principles. Templates come with coherent, pre-built pages, maintaining consistency across your site. They include industry-specific sections and optimal UI/UX placement, potentially highlighting elements you might overlook. Templates also offer a learning experience, helping you understand effective website structures.

Here’s how you can create your small business website using pre-made template:

1. Log in to your Dorik account and go to the dashboard.

2. Navigate to 'Sites' on your dashboard.

3. Click on "Create New Site" to access the templates.

4. Browse through the template categories to find one that matches your test. You can also import JSON if you have a downloaded one already.

5. Hover over to any template you like. Click on “Preview” to have a look at the template before finalizing. Once you’re done exploring the templates, click on “Create Site” and your website will be created within a few seconds with the selected template.

Now, you can start customizing the template.

Remember, you can always start with a template and then use Dorik's AI tools to generate content or specific sections within that template. This hybrid approach can give you the best of both worlds.

3. Creating a Small Business Website from Scratch:

Creating from scratch is ideal for designers, developers, or those with specific design requirements that aren't met by templates or AI-generated sites.

Building from scratch gives you complete control over every aspect of your website. While it requires more time and design skills, it allows for unlimited creativity and customization. This method is best if you have a unique vision for your site or need highly specific functionality.

Here’s how you can create a website for your small business from scratch:

1. Log in to your Dorik account and go to the dashboard.

2. Navigate to 'Sites' on your dashboard.

3. Click on "Create New Site".

4. Click on “Create From Scratch” to get started.

5.Get yourself familiar with the platform from the provided resources.

6. Click on “Add New Section” and use the drag-and-drop editor to add sections and elements to your page.

7. Customize colors, fonts, and layouts using the editing panel on the left side.

Note: For all three methods, once you've created your initial layout:

We have resources for creating various types of small business websites. Check out the following list, and you might get one for your business as well:

Step 2: Choose and Register Your Domain Name

Your domain name is your online identity. It’s your website's unique online address that allows users to easily find and access your site. Choose one that's memorable and reflects your business to help customers find you easily.

When choosing a domain name for your small business website, consider these key factors:

Now, it’s time to buy the domain name. But from where can you buy yours?

You buy a domain name from a domain name registrar. These are companies that sell and manage domain names. Once you buy a name, it's all yours - no one else can use it.

Many registrars offer more than just domain names. They can host your website, give you a professional email, and even help with marketing. It's like a one-stop shop for your online presence.

Some of the trusted domain registrars include:

Buying a domain is easy. Just visit one of these sites and follow their steps. The best part? You don't need to build a website right away. As long as you keep paying the registration fee, that name is yours to use whenever you're ready.

If you wish to learn more about how to choose the best domain name, read our blog post on how to choose a domain name.

Step 3: Select a Reliable Web Hosting Service

A hosting provider stores your site's files on servers, making them accessible online 24/7. They ensure your site stays up, loads quickly, and remains secure. Choosing a dependable host is vital for providing a smooth user experience, maintaining your online presence, and supporting your business operations effectively.

Let's explore the key factors to consider when selecting a hosting service for your small business website:

Related Read: What Is Website Security?

Now the question comes: From where do you get your hosting?

Well, there are numerous hosting providers you can choose from. Below are some of the most popular ones:

Although not a dedicated hosting provider, Dorik offers a simpler solution for small business owners. As an all-in-one website builder, it provides free CDN hosting with unlimited bandwidth and storage. This means you don't have to worry about technical details like uptime, loading speed, or scalability.

Dorik handles security with free SSL certificates and offers built-in analytics to track your site's performance. With features like team collaboration and payment integration, it addresses many small business needs in one platform. This comprehensive approach allows you to focus on growing your business rather than managing web hosting complexities.

Check out our comprehensive blog post on “how to host your website” for a more detailed guide.

Step 4: Design Your Site's Visual Identity

Your visual identity makes a lasting impression. It helps customers recognize and remember your brand across all platforms.

Consider these key visual elements when designing your site:

Learn how to create a website and customize it from the following content: How to create a website.

Step 5: Plan Your Site Structure and Navigation

A well-planned site structure guides visitors seamlessly through your content. It improves user experience, keeping people on your site longer and potentially boosting conversions.

Start by mapping out your main pages and how they connect. Group related content under clear categories. For a small business, you might include "Home," "Products/Services," "About," and "Contact" pages.

Create a straightforward navigation menu using these categories. Place it at the top of your site or in a sidebar. Use concise, descriptive labels that instantly communicate what visitors will find.

Implement a logical hierarchy in your site's organization. This not only helps visitors but also aids search engines in understanding and indexing your content, potentially improving your search rankings.

Add a search function for larger sites and consider using breadcrumbs to show visitors their location within your site structure. These elements enhance navigation and help users find information quickly.

Step 6: Develop Key Pages (Home, About, Contact, Product/Service)

Creating essential pages forms the backbone of your small business website. These pages provide crucial information to visitors and guide them through your site.

Your Homepage

This is your digital storefront, introducing your business and its unique value. Use clear, concise language to explain what you do and who you serve. Include eye-catching visuals and a strong call to action to guide visitors further.

The following image shows the anatomy of a high-converting landing page.

If you need more assistance, read our comprehensive guide on how to create a homepage.

Related Article: How to Create a Landing Page

Your 'About Us' Page

Share your business story, mission, and values. This humanizes your brand and helps build trust with potential customers. If appropriate, introduce key team members to create a personal connection.

Find more details on “How to Create An About Us Page”.

Your Contact Page

Include multiple ways for customers to reach you - phone, email, address, and a contact form. Consider adding your business hours and a map for easy location. Read our detailed guide on creating a contact us page.

Your Product/Service Page

If you sell products or services online, create dedicated pages for these offerings. Provide clear descriptions, high-quality images, and easy-to-use purchasing or booking options.

Follow the image below to create your perfect product page.

FAQs Page

Consider adding a FAQ page to address common customer queries. This can reduce support inquiries and demonstrate your expertise.

Step 7: Create Compelling, Value-Driven Content

Content is the heart of your website. It's what informs, engages, and ultimately converts your visitors into customers. High-quality, valuable content establishes your expertise, builds trust with your audience, and improves your search engine rankings.

Here's how to create content that resonates with your audience and drives results:

Remember, your content should provide real value to your visitors. Every piece of content should serve a purpose, whether it's answering a question, solving a problem, or guiding a decision. By consistently delivering valuable content, you'll build a loyal audience and establish your small business as a trusted resource in your industry.

Step 8: Implement Necessary Features and Functionality

The right features and functionality make your website not just visually appealing but also practical and user-friendly. For a small business website, focus on essential elements that enhance user experience and support your business goals.

Start with a clean, intuitive navigation bar. This helps visitors easily find what they're looking for, reducing frustration and improving engagement. Place it prominently at the top of your site and keep the labels clear and concise.

Add a search function to your site. This is particularly useful if you have a lot of content or products. It allows users to quickly find specific information, enhancing their experience and potentially increasing conversions.

Implement contact forms or live chat. These tools make it easy for potential customers to reach out, ask questions, or request quotes. They're invaluable for generating leads and providing customer support.

Include social proof elements. Add a customer review section or testimonials to build trust with potential customers. This can significantly influence purchasing decisions.

Integrate social media buttons. These allow visitors to easily find and follow your business on various platforms, expanding your online presence and engagement opportunities.

Ensure your site is mobile-responsive. With more people browsing on smartphones, your site needs to look and function well on all device sizes.

If you're selling products, add e-commerce functionality. This includes product pages with detailed descriptions, high-quality images, and a secure checkout process.

Implement basic SEO features. Use a content management system that allows you to easily optimize your page titles, meta descriptions, and URLs for search engines.

Add security features, especially if you're handling sensitive information or processing payments. At a minimum, install an SSL certificate to encrypt data and build trust with your visitors.

Consider adding a blog functionality. This allows you to regularly publish fresh content, which can improve your search engine rankings and position you as an industry expert.

Choose features that truly serve your business needs and your customers' expectations. Don't overload your site with unnecessary bells and whistles. Instead, focus on functionality that enhances user experience and supports your business goals. As your business grows, you can always add more advanced features.

Step 9: Test Thoroughly Before Launch

Comprehensive testing ensures your website functions flawlessly across all platforms and devices. This crucial step prevents potential issues that could harm your brand's reputation or hinder user experience.

Remember, some builders let you keep your site private while you’re building it, and some don’t. So, make sure to test the site thoroughly before promoting it.

Conduct these essential tests:

Related Content: SEO Glossary

Utilize tools like BrowserStack for device testing and Screaming Frog for technical SEO audits. Consider enlisting beta testers for unbiased feedback. Address all issues before launch to ensure a smooth user experience from day one.

Step 10: Publish and Promote Your New Website

After thorough testing, it's time to launch your website and make it visible to your target audience.

Here's how to effectively publish and promote your new site:

Promotion is an ongoing process. Consistently engage with your audience, update your content, and refine your marketing strategies to maintain and grow your online presence.

Read more website promotional strategies on “How to Promote A Website”.

Step 11: Optimize Your Site for Search Engines

SEO helps people find your site organically. It improves your visibility in search results, bringing more potential customers to your business. It’s crucial for making your website visible to potential customers. It's the process of refining your site to rank higher in search engine results, increasing organic traffic and potential leads.

Here's how to effectively optimize your site:

Seems a lot to check, right? Well, Dorik simplifies SEO for your small business website, addressing key factors without requiring technical expertise.

You can easily optimize meta tags, control indexing, and manage schemas through a user-friendly interface. The platform's global CDN ensures your site loads quickly worldwide, improving user experience and search rankings. With built-in mobile responsiveness and tools for creating SEO-friendly URLs, Dorik helps you meet crucial ranking criteria effortlessly.

This allows you to focus on creating valuable content while the platform handles technical optimizations. It also saves you time and resources when hiring SEO specialists or learning complex techniques.

SEO is an ongoing process. Regularly monitor your site's performance using tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console. Stay updated with SEO best practices and algorithm changes to maintain and improve your rankings over time.

Step 12: Maintain and Update Your Site Regularly

Consistent maintenance ensures your website remains secure, relevant, and effective.

Here's how to maintain your site:

Implement a comprehensive maintenance schedule addressing these areas systematically. Consider engaging professional website maintenance services or hiring a dedicated webmaster to ensure consistent, high-quality upkeep. This proactive approach will keep your site secure, relevant, and effective, maintaining its value as a crucial business asset.

FAQs

Do I need technical skills to create a small business website?

No, you needn't be a tech expert to create a small business website. Nowadays, various website builders and content management systems are available that allow you to create a website without any coding or technical knowledge.

How much does it cost to create a website for a small business?

Creating a website for a small business typically costs between $1,000 and $10,000. For a DIY approach, you can expect to spend $500 to $1,000, while hiring a professional may cost $5,000 to $10,000. However, these costs can vary based on several factors:

The final cost depends on your specific needs, desired features, and whether you choose to build the site yourself or hire a professional.

Related article: How Much Does It Cost to Create a Website?

How long does it take to build a website?

Building a website for a small business typically takes between 30 minutes to 2 months. Using a no-code website builder, you can create a basic site in 30 minutes to a few hours. Hiring professionals for a custom site may take 1 to 2 months. The timeline varies based on complexity:

Website builders with AI functionality can create a basic site in minutes. However, customizing content, design, and functionality takes additional time. The more complex your requirements, the longer it will take. Consider your needs, skills, and time constraints when choosing between DIY and professional options.

Find more here: How Long Does It Take to Build a Website?

Can I create a small business website for free? 

Yes, creating a small business website for free is possible using website builders like Dorik, free web hosting services, or other free tools. However, free website options may have limitations, such as fewer features or templates, and may display ads or branding from the provider.

How do I measure the success of my small business website?

To measure your small business website’s success, you can track the following matrix.

Final Words

To summarize, we have shown you the whole process of how to create a small business website step by step. In fact, a successful small business website requires a clear goal, an attractive design, high-quality content, mobile responsiveness, security, and ongoing maintenance and upgrades. It also needs effective promotion.

By following the guidelines outlined in this guide and taking action, you can create a website that drives traffic, generates leads, and ultimately help your business succeed.

Don't wait any longer; start today!