The 9-point checklist every small-business website should pass

You don't need a fancy site. You need one that loads fast, reads clearly, and makes it obvious what to do next. Run yours through this checklist.

The checklist

• •It loads in under two seconds on a phone.
• •The headline says what you do and who you help — in one sentence.
• •Your phone number or booking button is visible without scrolling.
• •Every page has one clear call to action.
• •Contact details are correct and consistent everywhere.
• •It looks flawless on a small screen first.
• •There's real proof — reviews, photos, or results.
• •It's secure (HTTPS) and shows no browser warnings.
• •Search engines can actually find and read it.

If you failed a few

Don't panic — most sites do. Fix the fast-loading, clear-headline, and obvious-CTA items first. Those three move the needle more than a full redesign.