Web Design Mistakes That Might Be Costing You Clients (And How to Fix Them)
Web Design Mistakes That Might Be Costing You Clients (And How to Fix Them)
Your website should be your best salesperson — working 24/7 to attract, engage, and convert. But if your site isn’t performing the way it should, you could be unknowingly turning potential clients away.
As a husband and wife web design team from Sydney’s Northern Beaches (currently exploring Australia with our kids in a caravan!), we’ve seen it all — the flashy templates that don’t convert, the slow-loading pages, and the forgotten mobile designs.
Here are some of the most common web design mistakes we come across — and how you can fix them to start winning more clients online.
1. Slow Load Times
In today’s fast-paced world, speed matters. If your site takes more than 3 seconds to load, visitors are already hitting the back button. This doesn’t just frustrate users — it also hurts your SEO.
Fix it:
Optimise image sizes
Minimise plugins
Use rock solid hosting so your site is served up to your visitor fast
Use leading website platforms to ensure optimal site loading performance
2. Not Mobile-Friendly
With over 60% of web traffic now on mobile, if your site doesn’t work seamlessly on phones and tablets, you're leaving money on the table.
Fix it:
Use responsive design so it looks just as great on mobile as desktop
Test your site on various screen sizes
Prioritise mobile UX — think finger-friendly navigation and fast load times
3. Confusing Navigation
If visitors can’t find what they’re looking for within seconds, they’ll give up. Your navigation should guide users smoothly toward what they need — whether that’s booking a service, reading about your offerings, or getting in touch.
Fix it:
Keep your menu clear and simple
Limit top-level links to the essentials
Use strong call-to-actions (CTAs) on every page
4. Too Much Going On
We get it — you're excited about your business (so are we!). But if your homepage is cluttered with animations, pop-ups, and endless info, it can overwhelm your visitors.
Fix it:
Embrace whitespace and clear design principles
Focus on one clear message per section
Highlight your value proposition front and centre
5. Lack of Trust Signals
Your website should build instant trust. If visitors can’t see why you’re credible, they won’t stick around — no matter how great your service is.
Fix it:
Add testimonials, reviews, or case studies
Show professional photos and team bios
Include your location (like “Northern Beaches Web Design” or “Sydney-based”) to build local trust
Why This Matters (Wherever You’re Located)
Whether you’re running a bricks-and-mortar shop in Dee Why, launching a coaching business from Byron Bay, or — like us — working from a laptop in a caravan park in Broome, your website is your digital HQ.
A poorly designed site can quietly cost you leads, sales, and growth. But the good news? With the right strategy (and the right team behind you), these issues are fixable.
Let’s Build You a Website That Works
At Mr and Mrs Website, we design custom websites that combine beauty, strategy, and functionality — built to help your business thrive, no matter where you are.
🚐 Travelling Australia. 🌊 Rooted in the Northern Beaches. 🧡 Passionate about helping small businesses grow.
Ready to upgrade your online presence?
Contact us today — and let’s create something amazing, wherever you are.