As a coach or an online service provider, your website is your digital handshake, a warm 'Hello!' to prospective clients globally. But, is it working its charm to captivate visitors and prompt them to take the leap – to work with you?

The transition from being 'online' to becoming a 'client-conversion machine' hinges on critical website features. They ensure an enjoyable journey for your visitors, nudging them closer to the 'Sign Up' button.

Are you ready to delve into the nitty-gritty of turning your website into a powerful tool for client conversion? This post is your map to uncovering website features that can revolutionize the way you attract, engage, and convert your audience.

*NOTE: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, and I may receive a small commission if you purchase through the link.

Why is a website important for coaches and online service providers?

In this digital era, a website is more than an addition to your business—it's a necessity. Think of your website as your digital headquarters, the place where all interactions, transactions, and transformations begin.

Picture this: you meet a potential client during a networking event or a casual coffee catch-up. They are intrigued by your offer and want to learn more about you. Where do they go? Your website! It's there they start to imagine what it might be like to work with you. They read your story, absorb your values, and visualize the transformation they can achieve with your help.

Your website allows potential clients to know, like, and trust you -- the essential steps toward making that rewarding decision to work with you. It's the space where you showcase not only what you do but who you are and why you do it.

Which website builder is best for your business?

Building a website is like constructing your dream home. You need a foundation that's both sturdy and flexible. Enter Kajabi and Showit, two personal favorites.

Kajabi is an all-in-one platform handling everything from creating and selling online courses to handling email marketing and sales funnels. Showit, on the other hand, gives you creative freedom to craft a unique website without needing to code.

The choice between Kajabi and Showit comes down to your specific needs. Each platform has its strengths and is designed with different business types in mind. But, whether you choose Kajabi’s all-encompassing ecosystem or Showit’s design-centric platform, you're already on the path to creating an extraordinary client experience.

With the foundation set, let's explore the features that can transform your website from a digital brochure into a client attraction and retention powerhouse. Here are the four essential features your website needs to WOW your prospective clients.

Website Feature #1: Fast Loading Times

In the digital realm, speed reigns supreme. Slow-loading websites are like watching paint dry, a guaranteed turn-off! If your website takes more than 3 seconds to load, nearly half of your visitors are likely to leave.

Every second counts and can significantly impact your bounce rate (the percentage of visitors who navigate away after viewing only one page). Fast load times not only hold your potential client's attention, they also contribute to a seamless user experience, ultimately influencing client retention.

"But how do I boost my website's speed?" you may ask. Great question! Here are a couple of tips:

1. Optimize Images: The size and format of your images can significantly impact your website’s load speed. Consider compressing your images or converting them into a format that requires less data without compromising the quality. I personally use the free version of TinyPNG to compress my images.
2. Limit the Use of Plugins: While plugins can enhance your website's functionality, too many can bog down your site's speed. Be strategic about the plugins you use, keeping only those that add significant value to your site.

Remember, it's not just about looking good, but about getting off the blocks quickly and maintaining that pace. Prioritizing speed is crucial in ensuring your website isn’t a tortoise in the hare’s race.

Website Feature #2: The Power of Calls-to-Action

Calls-to-Action (CTAs) are your website's friendly guides, directing visitors where to go next. Simply, a CTA is an instruction designed to prompt an immediate response from the person reading it. "Sign up now," "Book a consultation," and "Download our eBook" are all examples of CTAs. They show your prospective clients the next step they should take to continue engaging with your brand.

CTAs are most effective when they're logically placed within the flow of the webpage. A CTA at the end of a blog post might encourage readers to subscribe for more content. A CTA on your services page might invite potential clients to book a free consultation. Strategically placed CTAs within your website can significantly increase user engagement and conversion rates.

Remember, your website isn't a treasure hunt; make it easy for visitors with clear and effective CTAs. In the end, your Calls-to-Action can turn a casual browser into a committed customer.

Website Feature #3: User-Friendly Navigation

Your website’s navigation is like the signs on a road, guiding your prospective clients smoothly through their journey with you. User-friendly navigation starts with a clear, easy-to-understand menu. This menu is your website's table of contents, and it should be organized logically and with common language. Avoid creative or quirky names that might confuse your visitors. "Contact," "About," and "Services" are standard because they work.

However, a well-structured website isn’t only about having a good menu. It ensures that every page has a purpose and guides the visitor to the next logical step, whether that's booking a call with you, purchasing a product, or subscribing to your newsletter.

Effective navigation also caters to all types of visitors: the explorers who want to check out every page, the goal-oriented who want to find specific information quickly, and the window shoppers who just want a quick overview of what you offer. A well-designed website will cater to all these user types and provide them with a positive and seamless experience.

Website Feature #4: Streamlining the Booking Process

A seamless booking process is critical to avoid losing a client at the finish line. You can set up your booking process on your website through a contact form or a calendar. Either way, it should be easy to find, simple to use, and function flawlessly.

If you want to screen a potential client before working with them, you can embed a contact form on your website and ask any key questions to get to know the prospect better. Make sure to only ask for information you absolutely need to avoid overwhelming your prospect.

Next, consider incorporating a booking calendar directly into your website. A visual, interactive calendar can allow prospects to see your availability and book a time that suits them best, eliminating the back-and-forth often involved in scheduling. I personally recommend Dubsado for contact forms and booking calendars.

Remember, the goal here is to reduce the number of steps and the amount of effort it takes to book your services. Any friction can give prospective clients a chance to change their minds or delay their decision. On the other hand, a seamless booking process makes it easier for your website visitors to say "yes" to your offer.

Conclusion

Whether you're a seasoned coach or an online service provider starting your entrepreneurial journey, these website features are your building blocks to an enhanced client experience. Creating an exceptional client experience is not only about the end product or service you offer. It starts from the very moment they land on your website. Remember, your website is more than just a digital business card.

Now, you might be thinking, "I love these ideas, but I'm not sure how to implement them on my website." That's where I come in! Click here to book a strategy session today. Let's create a website that truly WOWs your prospective clients!