AI is everywhere, and everyone is using it. There is a lot of politics around it as well, but I’m not going to get into that here. But what I am going to get into is how to use AI for your business and how NOT to use AI for your business.

First of all, let me explain what Generative AI really is. It isn’t some super intelligent machine. It’s basically a model that was trained by reading billions of sentences off books and websites and articles to learn patterns. So when you type in something into your AI platform like ChatGPT or Gemini, it tries to predict the next word(s) based on the question you asked it.

The answer AI is giving you is a prediction on “what comes next” based on the words and phrases in the query you submit.

What does this mean for you? It means that the answer you get is not always the right answer, it’s just want seems to be the next appropriate response. So that means that sometimes, AI just downright lies. (Okay, lies is a bit of a stretch since a lie would indicate intentional dishonesty, and AI doesn’t have intent.)

Let me show you an example. I went to two different AI platforms and asked the exact same question.

What is the primary color on sumydesigns.com?

Here’s the answer I got on ChatGTP:

The primary color used on Sumy Designs’ website (Sumy Designs → https://www.sumydesigns.com) is a teal / blue-green color.

Approximate primary brand color:

• Hex: #2BA6A6 (approximate from the site’s buttons, accents, and logo tones)
• Type: Teal / turquoise
• Usage:
  • Buttons and call-to-action elements
  • Links and hover states
  • Accent highlights in graphics and icons

The site also uses supporting colors:

• Dark gray / charcoal for headings and body text
• White backgrounds
• Light gray sections for contrast

Summary

• Primary color: Teal / turquoise
• Approx hex: #2BA6A6
• Role: Accent color for CTAs, links, and branding elements

If you want, I can also pull the exact CSS color variables from the site (which may include multiple teal shades used for hover states and gradients).

And here’s the answer I got on Gemini:

Based on the branding for Sumy Designs, the primary color is a distinctive shade of teal or turquoise.

This color is used prominently in their logo, navigation highlights, and various design elements throughout their website. It is often paired with a dark gray or charcoal for text and a clean white background.

And if you are looking at this blog post right now, then you’ll know that this website does not use teal or turquoise. Our primary colors are black, white, red, and gray. In fact, those colors have been our brand for over twenty years.

The truth is, I asked a question, and AI gave me an answer. What it did NOT do was go to this website and look at it and evaluate it. So what does this mean for you? It means you need to be selective on how you use AI.

Good uses of AI for your business

Content writing/editing. If you have a great idea for a blog post, you can write up a good prompt (the prompt is everything!) and get back a fairly detailed blog post that you can then read, edit, or ask for revisions on. The post I shared earlier this week is a good example. I knew I wanted to do a post about what to do if your website is broken. I asked for content for that topic, and then after I read the answers, I added a lot more suggestions on things I wanted included. The original post didn’t include what happens if your site is hacked, or if your domain has expired, or if your web host will help your or not, all things I wanted included.

After I continued adding in what I wanted, I then went through and read it all to make sure it was accurate (remember, AI will lie) and added in my own tweaks and adjustments to make the content fit my voice.

This is a good way to use AI. It helped me say what I wanted to say, but took the busy work out of the basic parts that I needed to get spelled out, and let me retool it to say what I wanted to say the way I wanted to say it.

Please note: it is vital that you read any content that AI writes for you, to make sure it’s truthful, accurate, and the tone is appropriate. AI content is going to be better in some situations and worse in others. If your content needs are simple, like you need a description of a common service, perfect. If it’s more complex, expect the answers to need more review.

Writing code. Look, I know how to write code. I sometimes dream about CSS. But you know what’s a lot faster? Going to AI, telling it exactly what I need in the code, and having it get spit out for me. Code is something that AI can do really well if you write a good prompt.

Just be sure to test it first before you throw it on a live site!

Marketing. Looking for some punchy subject for your email blast? Need to come up with a great intro for your mailer? Tell AI what you are looking for and it can give you a lot of options you can use as is or mix and match.

Bad uses of AI for your business

Website Reviews. Remember how earlier I mentioned that I asked AI what color this website was and it told me turquoise? The takeaway from this is that you shouldn’t ask AI to look at your website or evaluate your website. Because it’s not. Unless you are submitting the code right into it, it’s just guessing about what’s on your website based on the prompt you gave it.

I’ve had plenty of folks send me the AI-assessment of their website, and often ask me to implement the changes. And I have to assume that many people aren’t even reading what these assessments say. Often times these assessments tell me to make changes on pages that don’t exist, suggests keywords that aren’t really relevant or useful, etc.

There is no replacement for a human set of eyes looking at your website.

Image creation. This is going to get some flack, but let me assure you, AI images are typically not that great and people can tell they are AI. And people don’t like them.

Legal disclaimers. It may sound like a good idea, but it won’t hold up in court. If you want it to be right, I’d run it by a lawyer.

Design. If you know exactly what you want and can describe it, this may work. But in general, AI doesn’t know who your customer is, doesn’t know what they are looking for, or how they would use your website.

Remember that AI is a tool, not a replacement. Use it judiciously to enhance what you already do.

It is the moment every small business owner dreads. You go to check your website, and instead of your polished digital storefront, you see a blank white screen, a weird error code, or a “This site can’t be reached” message.

Your heart sinks. Is my site down? Did I get hacked? How much business am I losing right now?

First: Take a deep breath. Website issues are common and almost always fixable. The most important step is not panic, but diagnosis.

Part 1: First Aid – What to do Right Now

Before you dive into technical details, perform these three quick checks to see if the “fire” is real.

• Confirm It’s Not Just You: Try loading your site on your phone using cellular data (turn off Wi-Fi) to rule out local internet issues.
• Check a “Down” Monitor: Use downforeveryoneorjustme.com to see if the rest of the world can see your site.
• Take a Screenshot: If there is an error code, snap a photo. This is the “symptom list” your developer will need.

Part 2: Is it a Technical Glitch or a Hack?

Sometimes a site isn’t just “broken”—it’s been compromised. Knowing the difference changes your next steps immediately.

How to tell if you’ve been hacked:

• The Google Warning: You see a big red screen that says, “The site ahead contains malware.”
• The Redirect: You try to go to your homepage, but it sends you to a strange pharmacy site or a gambling page.
• The Search Results: You Google your own business name, and the description under your link is in a different language or full of spam keywords.
• The Defacement: Your homepage has been replaced with a message or image from the hacker.

What to do if you are hacked:

1. Don’t Log In: If you suspect a breach, try to avoid logging into your admin panel from a compromised network.
2. The “Nuclear” Option (Restoring from Backup): If you have a clean backup from before the hack occurred, restoring it is often the fastest way to get back online. Most quality hosts or maintenance plans keep 30 days of backups.
   • Note: After restoring, you MUST immediately change all passwords and update all plugins, or the hackers will just use the same “door” to get back in.
3. The Password Purge: Once you restore your site, you must change every single password associated with it. If you don’t, the hacker will use the same credentials to get right back in. This includes your web hosting account, domain registrar, and all WordPress users.
4. Update your theme and plugins: One of the most common ways hackers get in is through vulnerabilities in out-of-date software.
5. Call the Experts: Hacking cleanup is specialized work. It involves scanning the database and server for hidden “backdoors.”

Note: Will my web host fix a hack for me? Usually, no, but it depends on the web host. Most hosting companies are responsible for the “garage” (the server), not the “car” (your website). If your site is hacked, a host’s typical response is to shut your site down to protect their other customers. They might offer a paid cleanup service, but these are often automated and can miss hidden “backdoor” scripts. For a thorough cleaning, you usually need a web developer or a specialized security service.

Higher end web hosts, particularly those that are WordPress specific, will sometimes clean up your site for you. (But these hosts are less likely to have hacked sites on their servers as well.)

Part 3: The “Ghost in the Machine” – Is it just Caching?

If you just made a change and the site looks messy or the old version is still showing, you are likely dealing with a caching issue.

• The Fix: Try opening your site in an Incognito or Private window. If it looks perfect there, you just need to clear your browser history.
• The Plugin Fix: If you are in WordPress, look for a button in the top admin bar that says “Clear Cache” or “Purge All” and click it.

Part 4: The “Hidden” Culprit – Has Your Domain Expired?

Sometimes the site isn’t “broken”—you just don’t own the address anymore. This happens more often than you’d think, usually due to an expired credit card on file with your registrar (GoDaddy, Namecheap, etc.). I’ll add it’s a good idea to login to your domain account at least once a year and verify your contact information so you don’t miss any renewal emails.

How to tell if your domain expired:

• The “Parking” Page: Instead of your site, you see a generic page full of ads or a message saying “This domain is parked.”
• The Browser Error: You see DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN.
• The “WHOIS” Check: Go to whois.com and type in your URL. Look for the “Expiry Date.” If that date has passed, your domain is expired.

The Fix: Log into your domain registrar immediately and renew it.

Important Note: Most registrars have a “Grace Period” (usually 30 days) where you can renew for the standard price. After that, it enters a “Redemption Period” which can cost $100 or more to recover. Act fast!

Part 5: Typical WordPress & Hosting Errors

How to Tell Which One It Is:

• It’s probably WordPress if: You see a partially loaded site, or an actual error message that mentions “PHP” or a specific plugin name.
• It’s probably Hosting if: You see a generic “Internal Server Error.” These are server-level complaints.
• It’s probably DNS if: You recently transferred your domain or changed hosting companies, and now the URL simply doesn’t lead anywhere.

Part 6: Typical WordPress Errors & Fixes

If you use WordPress, these are the most common small business nightmares:

1. The White Screen of Death (WSoD)

The Symptom: A blank, white browser screen with no information.
The Cause: Usually a conflict between a newly updated plugin and your theme.
The Fix: If you have FTP access, you can rename your plugins folder to “plugins_old” to force them all to turn off. If the site comes back, you know a plugin was the culprit.

2. Error Establishing a Database Connection

The Symptom: A page displaying only that specific text.
The Cause: WordPress can’t “talk” to the database where your content lives. This happens if your server is overloaded or if your database credentials changed.
The Fix: Wait 5 minutes and refresh. If it persists, this is a job for your hosting support or your web developer.

3. Broken Layout / Messy Images

The Symptom: The text is there, but the design is gone. Everything is aligned to the left and looks like a 1995 text document.
The Cause: Usually a caching issue or a failed SSL (security) certificate update.
The Fix: Clear your browser cache completely. If that doesn’t work, check to see if your “HTTPS” padlock icon is missing.

Part 7: How to Prevent Future Breakdowns

1. Auto-Renew Everything: Set your domain and hosting to auto-renew with a current credit card.
2. The Golden Rule: Backup Daily: Ensure you have an automated backup system that stores files outside of your website server. If the server gets hacked, you want your backup to be safe elsewhere.
3. Update Safely: Keep WordPress, themes, and plugins updated. Outdated code is the #1 way hackers get in.

Stop Worrying About Your Website

Are you tired of waking up to a broken website or the fear of a security breach? At Sumy Designs, we take the technical weight off your shoulders.

We offer comprehensive support packages that include regular backups, security monitoring, and emergency fixes. We’re the “insurance policy” your business deserves.

Don’t wait for the next error code or security alert. Check out our support packages at support.sumydesigns.com and let us handle the tech while you handle your business.

We want to make our clients and community aware of multiple fraudulent emails that have been sent in our name. These emails were sent to past and current clients, as well as businesses that may appear in our online portfolio, and they falsely impersonate our company and members of our team.

What happened

Scammers have sent three types of fake emails pretending to be associated with us:

1. Website Optimization Emails
These messages falsely claimed to be from Susan Sullivan and offered website optimization services. They were sent from info.sumydesigns@gmail.com and even included Susan’s photo. These emails were not sent by her and were not authorized by our company.

2. Payment Request Emails (GoFlex)
Some clients received emails from a company called “GoFlex” requesting payment be released to us. We have no affiliation with this company. They do not work for us and are not authorized to request payments on our behalf.

3. Fake Website Renewal Emails (NEW)
We are now seeing emails with the subject line:
“Action Required: Website Renewals Due by 20 February.”
These messages claim that plugins or domains are due for renewal and request payment. They appear to come from us but are being sent from a fake Gmail address:
amy.sumydesign@gmail.com

This is not our email address, and these messages are fraudulent. We do not request payments through unsolicited emails. All legitimate services and renewals are billed through official invoices sent through our normal process.

Screenshots of the fraudulent emails are posted below for reference.

Please know

• Susan Sullivan is a real member of our team, but she did not send any of these emails.
• We have no affiliation with:
  • info.sumydesigns@gmail.com
  • amy.sumydesign@gmail.com
  • GoFlex or support@trygoflex.com
• While we do not use info.sumydesigns@gmail.com, we do have two similar legitimate emails:
  • info@sumydesigns.com
  • sumydesigns@gmail.com
  • amy@sumydesigns.com

If you received one of these emails

• Do not respond to the sender
• Do not click any links or download attachments
• Do not submit any payments
• Delete the email immediately

If you use Gmail, please also report it before deleting:

1. Open the email
2. Click the three vertical dots in the top-right corner
3. Choose “Report phishing”

We almost never send unsolicited emails offering services or requesting payment. If you are ever unsure whether a message is legitimately from us, please contact us directly.

Mobile traffic now accounts for much of website visits for many businesses, yet many small business websites are still optimized primarily for desktop viewing. This represents a massive missed opportunity. Visitors accessing your site on phones and tablets have fundamentally different needs, contexts, and behaviors than desktop users, and your website needs to reflect these differences to convert effectively.

A mobile-optimized website isn’t just about making things smaller for smaller screens. It’s about understanding that mobile visitors are often on the go, using slower connections, and making quick decisions. They’re researching on their commute, comparing options while shopping, or calling your business from a parking lot. Your mobile strategy must account for these realities to drive meaningful conversions.

Understanding Mobile-First Design Philosophy

Mobile-first design doesn’t mean your website looks identical on all devices—it means you design for mobile users first, then enhance the experience for larger screens. This approach recognizes that mobile is now the primary access method for most visitors.

Why Mobile-First Matters

When you design for mobile first, you’re forced to prioritize ruthlessly. You can’t include every detail or option because space is limited. This constraint creates better, more focused experiences that often convert better even on desktop.

Mobile users are also more likely to be in decision-making mode—they’ve searched for a local service and landed on your site because they need help now. Desktop users might be casual browsers. This behavioral difference makes mobile conversion optimization particularly valuable.

The Conversion Advantage

Studies consistently show that mobile-optimized websites with focused experiences convert better than desktop-centric sites trying to fit everything onto small screens. The key is removing friction and making the next step obvious.

Mobile Performance Optimization

Mobile visitors often use slower connections than desktop users, making performance critical for both user experience and conversions.

Page Speed Optimization

Slow-loading pages cause immediate abandonment on mobile devices. Mobile users have less patience than desktop users—pages taking more than 3 seconds to load see dramatically higher bounce rates.

Speed Measurement Tools

Google PageSpeed Insights provides both performance scores and specific optimization recommendations. Test your mobile pages regularly.

Other valuable tools include GTmetrix, WebPageTest, and the built-in performance tools in most browsers’ developer tools.

Key Performance Metrics

• Largest Contentful Paint (LCP): Time until main content loads (target: under 2.5 seconds)
• First Input Delay (FID): Response time to user interaction (target: under 100ms)
• Cumulative Layout Shift (CLS): Visual stability during loading (target: below 0.1)

These Core Web Vitals directly impact search rankings and user experience.

Image Optimization

Images are typically the largest files on web pages. Optimize them aggressively for mobile:

• Use modern formats (WebP instead of JPEG/PNG)
• Resize images to actual display dimensions
• Compress without losing noticeable quality
• Use responsive images that scale for different screen sizes
• Implement lazy loading so images load only when needed

WordPress plugins like Smush, Imagify, or TinyPNG automate much of this optimization.

Reduce Unnecessary Code

Minify CSS and JavaScript to reduce file sizes. Remove unused CSS and deferred non-critical JavaScript to the footer.

Most WordPress themes handle this automatically, but check your hosting provider’s caching options and consider plugins like Autoptimize or WP Rocket for additional optimization.

Leverage Browser Caching

Configure server caching so repeat visitors don’t re-download unchanged files. WordPress caching plugins like W3 Total Cache or LiteSpeed Cache can significantly improve mobile performance.

Content Delivery Networks (CDNs)

CDNs store copies of your website’s files on servers worldwide, serving files from locations closest to your visitors. This dramatically reduces load times, especially for mobile users on slower networks.

Cloudflare offers a free CDN tier that works well for small businesses. Most WordPress hosting providers include CDN access or offer it as an add-on.

Mobile-Friendly Design Principles

Responsive Design Implementation

Responsive design ensures your website looks good and functions properly on all screen sizes. Modern WordPress themes are responsive by default, but verify this works across different devices.

Testing Responsive Design

• Test on actual devices when possible, not just browser emulation
• Check both portrait and landscape orientations
• Verify content readability at various zoom levels
• Test with common mobile browsers (Chrome, Safari, Firefox)

Touch-Friendly Interactions

Mobile users interact with touchscreens, not mice. This requires different design considerations than desktop interfaces.

Touch Target Sizing

Apple recommends minimum touch targets of 44×44 pixels (about 1cm). This ensures users can easily tap buttons without hitting nearby elements by mistake.

Mobile-Specific Considerations:

• Space buttons at least 10-15 pixels apart
• Make form fields tall enough to tap easily
• Ensure clickable elements are appropriately sized
• Provide visual feedback (hover or active states) when elements are touched

Avoid Hover-Dependent Interactions

Desktop users can hover over elements to reveal additional information. Mobile users can’t hover, so information shouldn’t be hidden behind hover states.

Instead:

• Make important information always visible
• Use collapsible sections (accordions) to reveal additional details
• Provide tap-to-expand options for supplementary information

Readable Typography

Text that’s easy to read on desktop might be too small or hard to scan on mobile.

Font Size Guidelines

• Body text: minimum 16 pixels (some recommend 18-20px for better readability)
• Headings: appropriately larger with good contrast from body text
• Links: clearly distinguishable, adequately sized, and spaced

Line Length and Spacing

Long lines of text are hard to follow on mobile screens. Aim for 30-50 characters per line on mobile (naturally shorter than desktop’s 50-75).

Increase line spacing for improved readability. 1.5x to 1.75x line-height works well for mobile.

Font Selection

Use web-safe fonts or Google Fonts that load reliably on mobile connections. System fonts (like San Francisco on iOS or Roboto on Android) offer excellent performance and native feel.

Optimized Navigation

Mobile navigation must be intuitive and accessible without consuming excessive screen space.

Mobile Menu Patterns

Hamburger Menu: Collapsed menu icon (three horizontal lines) that expands when tapped

• Pros: Saves screen space
• Cons: Hidden menu can reduce discoverability

Tab Navigation: Horizontal menu showing primary sections with icons

• Pros: Quick access to main areas
• Cons: Limited space for many sections

Sticky Header: Menu remains visible at top while scrolling

• Pros: Always accessible
• Cons: Takes valuable screen space

Combination Approach: Many modern sites use sticky headers with hamburger menus for additional links.

Navigation Best Practices

• Clearly label menu items
• Use recognizable icons (if using icons)
• Avoid dropdown menus on mobile (difficult to trigger accurately)
• Include important links like contact information or “About” in main navigation
• Test menu accessibility with actual users

Mobile-Specific Conversion Optimization

Streamlined Forms

Forms are conversion killers on mobile—every field increases abandonment.

Minimize Form Fields

Ask for only essential information initially. You can request additional details later when customers are more committed.

Instead of one long form with 15 fields, start with 3-4 essential fields and follow up later.

Mobile-Friendly Form Design

• Use single-column layouts (stack fields vertically)
• Ensure adequate spacing between fields
• Make field labels visible and associated with inputs
• Use appropriate input types (number pad for phone, email keyboard for emails)
• Provide clear error messages
• Include progress indicators for multi-step forms

One-Tap Actions

Reduce friction with smart form features:

• Autofill enabled for address and payment information
• Click-to-call buttons that initiate phone calls on mobile
• Click-to-text for SMS inquiries
• Pre-filled location data when relevant
• Remember previously entered information

Clear, Clickable Calls-to-Action

Mobile CTAs need to be impossible to miss and easy to tap.

Button Design for Mobile

• Minimum size: 44×44 pixels (actually tappable)
• High contrast with surrounding content
• Clearly labeled with action-oriented text
• Adequate spacing from other interactive elements
• Single primary action per screen section

CTA Placement

Place primary CTAs where thumbs naturally reach—typically center or lower portions of mobile screens. Avoid top-of-screen CTAs that require reaching.

Persistent CTAs

For mobile visitors researching before converting, make contact options always available:

• Sticky header with phone number
• Floating action buttons (FAB) for calls or messages
• Persistent contact buttons in footer
• Click-to-message functionality via WhatsApp or SMS

Mobile-Specific Content Strategy

Mobile users consume content differently than desktop users. They’re often scanning quickly or on time constraints.

Scannable Content

• Use short paragraphs (2-3 sentences maximum)
• Break content into clear sections with descriptive headers
• Highlight key information with bold text or different colors
• Use bullet points instead of dense prose
• Keep sentences shorter and simpler

Content Prioritization

On mobile, show the most important information first:

1. What you do and who you serve
2. Key benefits or solutions you provide
3. Social proof (testimonials, reviews)
4. Specific offerings (services, products)
5. Call-to-action
6. Additional information (company history, team bios)

Desktop visitors scrolling have time for detailed information. Mobile visitors need key points immediately.

Images and Video

Images and video work well on mobile when properly optimized:

• Use high-quality but compressed images
• Ensure images load quickly
• Make videos responsive and auto-play-friendly
• Provide video transcripts for accessibility
• Use before-and-after sliders for visual comparison

Mobile Checkout and Payment Optimization

For e-commerce sites, mobile checkout is critical for conversion.

Payment Method Options

Mobile users expect multiple payment options:

• Credit and debit cards
• Digital wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay)
• Buy-now-pay-later services
• PayPal and similar services
• Bank transfers

Supporting digital wallets is particularly important—many mobile users prefer one-tap payments to entering card information. If you have an e-commerce site and don’t have Apple or Google Pay, you are losing money.

Guest Checkout

Allow customers to purchase without creating accounts. Requiring registration before purchase significantly increases abandonment on mobile.

Address Autocomplete

Use location services to auto-complete address fields, reducing required typing.

Express Checkout

Implement one-page checkout when possible, or minimize steps in multi-page checkout processes.

Location-Based Mobile Optimization

Mobile users often search for local services, making location optimization crucial.

Click-to-Call Functionality

Implement phone number links that initiate calls on mobile:

<a href="tel:+1-555-123-4567">Call Now: (555) 123-4567</a>

Make phone numbers clickable throughout your site and prominently displayed on mobile.

Local Business Information

Ensure NAP (Name, Address, Phone) consistency across:

• Your website
• Google My Business
• Local directories
• Social media profiles

Mobile users searching locally must find consistent information across all platforms.

Maps Integration

Embed Google Maps on contact pages and location pages. Mobile users should be able to:

• See your location on an interactive map
• Get directions using their phone’s maps app
• See distance and estimated travel time

Store Locator

For businesses with multiple locations, implement a store locator:

• Allow location search by city or ZIP code
• Show nearby locations with distance
• Provide click-to-call for each location
• Display hours and directions

Testing and Validation

Proper testing ensures your mobile optimization actually improves conversions.

Real Device Testing

Emulators and responsive design mode are useful, but real devices reveal issues you might miss:

• Actual network speeds (often slower than development environment)
• Real touch interactions and target accuracy
• Actual mobile browser behaviors
• Device-specific issues

Test on popular devices:

• iPhone (latest and previous generation)
• Samsung or other Android flagship
• Budget Android phones (often used by more price-sensitive customers)
• Tablets

User Testing

Observe real users interacting with your mobile site:

• Can they easily find what they’re looking for?
• Do they encounter obstacles or confusion?
• Can they complete key actions without assistance?
• What would improve their experience?

Conduct informal testing with family, friends, or customers. Even simple observation reveals issues.

Analytics Monitoring

Track mobile-specific metrics:

Traffic Source and Behavior

• Mobile vs. desktop traffic volume
• Mobile traffic by device type
• Mobile bounce rate
• Mobile session duration
• Mobile pages per session

Conversion Metrics

• Mobile conversion rate (compared to desktop)
• Mobile form abandonment rates
• Mobile click-through rates for CTAs
• Mobile payment abandonment (if applicable)

Performance Metrics

• Mobile page load time
• Mobile interaction response time
• Mobile crash or error rates

Heatmaps and Session Recordings

Tools like Hotjar show:

• Where mobile users click and tap
• How far they scroll before leaving
• Mobile form field interactions
• Rage clicks or repeated tapping (indicating frustration)

This visual data reveals mobile UX issues that metrics alone might miss.

Common Mobile Optimization Mistakes

Ignoring Viewport Settings

Websites without proper viewport meta tags don’t scale correctly on mobile. Ensure your theme or website includes:

<meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0">

Intrusive Pop-ups

Pop-ups that cover most of the mobile screen frustrate users and get dismissed immediately. Use them sparingly and provide easy close buttons.

Auto-Playing Media

Videos or audio that automatically play drain battery and data. Let users initiate media playback.

Flash and Outdated Technology

Flash doesn’t work on most mobile devices. Use HTML5 for interactive elements.

Unoptimized Images

Large desktop images displayed on mobile waste data and slow loading. Use properly optimized responsive images.

Desktop-Centric Features

Features like hover-dependent navigation or right-click menus don’t work on touch devices. Test that all features are touch-accessible.

Mobile optimization is no longer optional, it’s fundamental to website success. With most of your potential customers accessing your site on mobile devices, every aspect of your mobile experience directly impacts your bottom line.

Start with the foundational elements: responsive design, fast loading, and clear CTAs. Then layer in more sophisticated optimizations based on your specific business type and conversion goals.

Test regularly on real devices, monitor mobile-specific metrics, and continuously iterate based on user behavior and conversion data. The businesses winning online are those who recognize that mobile users aren’t just desktop users on smaller screens, they’re a distinct audience with unique needs and behaviors.

Prioritize mobile in your website strategy, and watch your conversions and customer satisfaction improve measurably.

If you’ve been managing a website for any length of time, you’ve probably wondered whether you’re getting the best deal on your domain registration. Maybe you’ve heard about better prices elsewhere, or perhaps you’re frustrated with your current registrar’s customer service. Whatever your reason, transferring your domain to a new registrar is a straightforward process once you understand what you’re doing.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about domain transfers, from the basics to the step-by-step process.

What Is a Domain Registrar?

A domain registrar is a company accredited by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) or a national domain authority to sell and manage domain name registrations. When you purchase a domain name like “example.com,” you’re not actually buying the domain itself—you’re leasing the rights to use it for a specified period (typically one year at a time).

Your registrar acts as the middleman between you and the domain registry that maintains the authoritative database for that top-level domain (like .com, .net, or .org). Popular registrars include GoDaddy, Namecheap, Squarespace Domains, Cloudflare, and many others.

Why Would You Want to Change Registrars?

There are several legitimate reasons to transfer your domain to a different registrar:

• Better pricing: Renewal rates can vary significantly between registrars. Some companies offer promotional pricing for the first year but charge much more for renewals.
• Improved features: Some registrars include free WHOIS privacy protection, free email forwarding, or better DNS management tools that others charge extra for.
• Better customer support: If you’ve had a frustrating experience with your current registrar’s support team, switching to one with better service can be worth the effort.
• Consolidation: If you have domains scattered across multiple registrars, consolidating them in one place can simplify management and potentially save money through bulk pricing.
• Company concerns: Changes in a company’s policies, ownership, or reputation might prompt you to move your domains elsewhere.

Before You Begin: Important Considerations

Before initiating a transfer, there are a few things you should know:

• Timing matters: Domains must be at least 60 days old before they can be transferred to a new registrar. Additionally, if you’ve transferred the domain within the last 60 days, you’ll need to wait before transferring again.
• Transfer locks: Most domains have a registrar lock (also called transfer lock) enabled by default to prevent unauthorized transfers. You’ll need to unlock it before proceeding.
• Expiration dates: When you transfer a domain, most registrars will add an additional year to your registration as part of the transfer process. However, if your domain has expired and is in the redemption period, you may have to renew first and then wait until a later date to transfer it.
• Active email and website: Your website and email will continue functioning during the transfer process, which typically takes 5-7 days to complete, but you won’t be able to make any DNS changes during that window.

Step-by-Step Guide to Transferring Your Domain

Step 1: Prepare Your Domain at the Current Registrar

Log in to your current registrar’s control panel and locate your domain management area. You’ll need to complete these tasks:

Unlock the domain: Look for a setting called “Domain Lock,” “Transfer Lock,” or “Registrar Lock” and disable it. This is usually a simple toggle switch.

Obtain the authorization code: Also called an EPP code, transfer code, or auth code, this is a unique password for your domain that proves you have permission to transfer it. The code is typically 8-16 characters long and contains letters and numbers. You can usually find it in your domain settings or request it to be sent to your registered email address.

Update your contact information: Ensure the email address associated with your domain registration is current and accessible. You’ll receive important transfer confirmation emails at this address.

Disable WHOIS privacy (temporarily): Some registrars require you to disable WHOIS privacy protection before transferring. You can re-enable it at your new registrar after the transfer completes.

Step 2: Initiate the Transfer at Your New Registrar

Visit your new registrar’s website and look for their domain transfer option. This is usually found in the domains section or may have its own dedicated transfer page.

Enter your domain name and the authorization code when prompted. The registrar will check whether your domain is eligible for transfer and provide you with pricing information.

Complete the checkout process. You’ll typically pay for one year of registration as part of the transfer fee, which will be added to your domain’s current expiration date.

Step 3: Approve the Transfer

After you’ve initiated the transfer at the new registrar, both registrars will send confirmation emails.

From your current registrar: You’ll receive an email asking you to confirm that you want to transfer the domain away. This email will contain a link or instructions to approve the transfer. Some registrars allow the transfer to proceed automatically if you don’t respond within five days, while others require explicit approval.

From your new registrar: You’ll receive confirmation that the transfer has been initiated and is in progress.

Important: Respond to these emails promptly. Approving the transfer at your current registrar can expedite the process significantly, sometimes completing it within hours instead of days.

Step 4: Wait for Completion

Domain transfers typically take between 5-7 days to complete, though they can finish much faster if you approve the transfer at your old registrar. During this time:

• Your website and email services will continue to work normally
• Don’t make any changes to your DNS settings
• Don’t attempt to cancel the transfer unless absolutely necessary

You’ll receive a final confirmation email from your new registrar once the transfer is complete.

Step 5: Configure Your Domain at the New Registrar

Once the transfer is complete, log in to your new registrar and verify that:

• Your domain’s DNS settings are correct and pointing to the right nameservers
• WHOIS privacy protection is enabled (if desired)
• Auto-renewal is set up according to your preferences (make sure your credit card is up-to-date)
• All domain settings match your requirements

What Is an Authorization Code?

Since I mentioned it several times, let’s dive a bit deeper into authorization codes. An EPP (Extensible Provisioning Protocol) authorization code, commonly called an auth code or transfer code, is essentially a password for your domain.

This code serves as a security measure to prevent unauthorized domain transfers. Without it, no one can transfer your domain to another registrar, even if they have access to your account credentials. The code is unique to each domain and is generated by your current registrar.

When you’re ready to transfer, you request this code from your current registrar, and then provide it to your new registrar as proof that you have the authority to move the domain. Think of it as a secret handshake between registrars that confirms you’re the legitimate domain owner.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Authorization code doesn’t work: Double-check that you’ve copied the entire code without extra spaces. If it still doesn’t work, request a new code from your current registrar.

Domain is locked: Make sure you’ve disabled the transfer lock at your current registrar. This is the most common reason transfers fail to initiate.

Transfer is taking too long: If the transfer hasn’t completed after 7 days, contact your new registrar’s support team. They can often check the status and identify any issues.

Current registrar won’t release the domain: This is rare, but if it happens, file a complaint with ICANN. Registrars are required to allow transfers unless there’s a legitimate security concern.

Should Your Domain and Hosting Be with the Same Company?

One question that often comes up during domain transfers is whether you need to register your domain with the same company that provides your web hosting. The short answer is no. Your domain registrar and web hosting provider can be completely separate companies, and this is actually quite common.

Your domain name and web hosting are two distinct services:

• Your domain name is your website’s address (like sumydesigns.com)
• Your web hosting is the physical server space where your website’s files live

These services work together through DNS (Domain Name System) settings, which tell the internet where to find your website when someone types in your domain name. You can point a domain registered at one company to hosting at another company simply by updating your DNS records or nameservers.

Benefits of Keeping Them Together

That said, there are some advantages to consolidating your domain and hosting with the same provider:

Simplified management: Having everything in one dashboard can make it easier to manage your website, especially if you’re not technically inclined. You won’t need to log in to multiple accounts to make changes.

Streamlined support: If something goes wrong, you only need to contact one support team instead of trying to determine whether the issue is with your domain or your hosting.

Easier initial setup: Many hosting providers will automatically configure DNS settings if they also manage your domain, eliminating a technical step for beginners.

Bundle discounts: Some companies offer pricing incentives when you purchase both services together.

Benefits of Keeping Them Separate

However, there are also compelling reasons to keep them separate:

Best-of-breed services: You can choose the absolute best registrar for domains and the best hosting provider for your needs, rather than compromising on one or both.

Protection from account issues: If your hosting account is suspended or there’s a billing problem, your domain remains secure and accessible at a separate registrar. This can be important for maintaining control of your digital assets.

Easier hosting migrations: When your domain is separate, switching hosting providers becomes much simpler. You just update your DNS settings instead of having to transfer both your domain and hosting simultaneously.

Better domain management tools: Specialized domain registrars often provide superior domain management features, DNS tools, and security options compared to hosting companies.

Competitive pricing: Domain-focused registrars are often more competitive on domain pricing and renewals than hosting companies, which may use domains as a loss leader to sell hosting.

My Recommendation

For most users, I actually recommend keeping your domain registration separate from your web hosting. The flexibility and protection this provides outweighs the minor convenience of having everything in one place. Choose a reputable, affordable domain registrar with good management tools, and separately select the hosting provider that best fits your website’s needs.

That said, if you’re brand new to website management and find the technical aspects overwhelming, starting with both services at the same provider can reduce the learning curve. You can always transfer your domain to a dedicated registrar later once you’re more comfortable with how everything works.

Final Thoughts

Transferring your domain to a new registrar might seem intimidating at first, but it’s a well-established process designed to be safe and straightforward. The key is to be methodical, keep track of your authorization code, and respond to confirmation emails promptly.

Remember that there’s no harm in shopping around for the best combination of price, features, and service that meets your needs. Your domain is one of your most important digital assets, and it deserves to be with a registrar that values your business.

For small businesses serving local markets, a well-executed blog strategy can be one of the most cost-effective ways to attract nearby customers actively searching for your services. Unlike paid advertising that stops working when your budget runs out, quality blog content continues attracting local traffic months and even years after publication.

However, many small businesses approach blogging without strategy, posting inconsistently about random topics and wondering why they see no results. A successful local blog requires intentional planning, consistent execution, and focus on topics that actually matter to nearby customers searching for what you offer.

Why Local Businesses Need a Different Blog Approach

National or e-commerce businesses can target broad topics with high search volumes and attract customers from anywhere. Local businesses need a different strategy focused on geographic specificity and local intent.

Your blog strategy should target people in your service area who are actively looking for solutions you provide. This means creating content that includes location-specific elements while addressing the problems, questions, and concerns of local customers.

The goal isn’t massive traffic numbers. It’s attracting qualified local visitors who are likely to become customers. A hundred local visitors searching for services you offer is more valuable than ten thousand visitors from across the country who will never hire you.

Understanding Local Search Intent

Local search intent falls into several categories that should guide your content strategy:

Immediate Need Searches
People searching “emergency plumber near me” or “open restaurants near me now” need immediate solutions. While blog posts won’t capture these ultra-urgent searches, they establish your authority and can appear in searches as customers research providers.

Research and Comparison
Potential customers researching options search for terms like “best landscapers in [city]” or “how to choose a contractor in [area].” Content targeting these searches positions you as an expert and gets you on the consideration list.

Problem and Solution Searches
Local customers search for specific problems: “how to fix low water pressure,” “what causes foundation cracks,” or “how to prepare for kitchen renovation.” These informational searches present opportunities to demonstrate expertise while naturally mentioning your services.

Local Information Searches
Searches about local regulations, climate conditions, or area-specific concerns create content opportunities. “Building permits in [city],” “best plants for [region] climate,” or “winterizing homes in [area]” combine local relevance with practical value.

Finding Your Local Content Topics

Effective local blog topics come from understanding what your customers actually search for and the questions they ask before hiring you.

Start With Customer Questions
Your best content ideas come directly from conversations with customers. What questions do people ask during consultations? What concerns come up repeatedly? What misconceptions need correcting?

Create a running list of every question customers ask, whether in person, by phone, or via email. Each question represents potential blog content that helps future customers while demonstrating your expertise.

Mine Local Search Terms
Use keyword research tools like KWFinder or Ubersuggest to find what people in your area are searching for. Focus on long-tail keywords that include your location or indicate local intent.

For example, a Denver roofing company might target “hail damage roof repair Denver,” “best roofing materials for Colorado climate,” or “how long does roof replacement take in winter.”

Address Seasonal and Local Issues
Create content around seasonal concerns specific to your area. Landscapers in Arizona write about drought-resistant plants, while those in Minnesota cover winter lawn care. HVAC companies in humid climates discuss different concerns than those in dry regions.

Local events, weather patterns, regulations, and environmental factors all create content opportunities that demonstrate your local expertise.

Cover Your Service Area
Create location-specific content for each city or neighborhood you serve. “Kitchen Remodeling in [Neighborhood]” or “Best Coffee Shops in [District]” helps you rank for location-specific searches while demonstrating local knowledge.

These pages can include information about serving that specific area, local considerations, neighborhood characteristics, and even nearby landmarks or references that locals recognize.

Structuring Your Content for Local SEO

How you structure and write your blog posts significantly impacts their effectiveness for attracting local traffic.

Location Integration
Incorporate location references naturally throughout your content, including:

• City and neighborhood names in titles, headers, and body text
• Local landmarks, streets, or recognizable locations
• Regional terminology and references
• Area-specific considerations or regulations

Avoid awkward keyword stuffing. Location references should flow naturally within genuinely helpful content.

Local Examples and Case Studies
Use real examples from local projects when possible (with client permission). “When we renovated a historic home in [neighborhood]” or “Recently we helped a [city] business owner with…” creates local relevance while providing concrete examples.

Before-and-after photos of local projects, customer testimonials from area residents, and stories about working in the community all strengthen local connections.

Comprehensive, Helpful Content
Search engines favor content that thoroughly answers questions and provides genuine value. Aim for comprehensive articles (typically 800-2000 words) that address topics completely rather than surface-level posts that leave readers with unanswered questions.

Include practical advice, specific recommendations, and actionable steps. The goal is becoming the best resource for local customers researching topics related to your business.

Strong Calls-to-Action
Every blog post should guide readers toward the next step, whether that’s requesting a quote, scheduling a consultation, calling for more information, or exploring your services.

Make CTAs specific and relevant to the post topic. An article about recognizing foundation problems should lead to foundation inspection services, not a generic “contact us” button.

Content Types That Work for Local Businesses

Different content formats serve different purposes in your local blog strategy.

How-To Guides and Tutorials
Educational content that teaches customers about your industry establishes expertise while attracting search traffic. “How to prepare your home for professional painting” or “What to expect during HVAC installation” positions you as helpful expert.

These posts should be genuinely useful, even if readers ultimately hire someone else. The goal is building trust and authority.

Often I hear from people that they are hesitant to write these types of posts because if they teach their clients how to do things, they won’t get hired. This is simply not the case. Most people know how to mow their lawn and clean their house, but lawn services and house cleaners are still big businesses.

Local Resource Guides
Create comprehensive guides to local resources in your industry. “Complete guide to building permits in [city],” “Directory of [area] home improvement resources,” or “Best local suppliers for [product type].”

These become linkable resources that other local websites reference, building your local authority and backlink profile.

I cannot stress enough how important a page like this can be, particularly on a real estate website. Showing that you know your area and are willing to share that knowledge goes a long way toward building trust with your customers, and building trust with the search engines.

Project Showcases and Case Studies
Detail interesting or challenging projects, explaining the problem, your solution, and the results. Include photos, explain your process, and highlight what makes the project noteworthy.

These posts demonstrate capabilities while providing social proof. They’re particularly effective for service businesses where customers want to see examples of your work.

Local News and Updates
Comment on local industry news, regulatory changes, or community developments that affect your customers. “How new [city] building codes affect home renovations” or “What [local event] means for area businesses.”

This positions you as an informed local expert who stays current with developments affecting customers.

Seasonal and Timely Content
Create content around predictable seasonal needs and local events. Prepare these posts in advance and publish them when they’re most relevant.

An air conditioning company publishes “Preparing your AC for [city] summer heat” in early spring when people start thinking about cooling needs, not in July when they’re already dealing with broken systems.

Publishing Consistency and Frequency

Consistent publishing signals to search engines that your website is active and maintained while giving visitors reasons to return.

• Establish a Sustainable Schedule
  Start with a frequency you can maintain long-term. One quality post per month is better than posting weekly for two months and then abandoning your blog for six months.
• Most small businesses find success with 1-4 posts per month. Choose a schedule based on your resources, and maintain consistency even if that means publishing less frequently.
• Plan Content in Advance
  Create a content calendar planning topics several months ahead. This prevents last-minute scrambling for ideas and helps you maintain consistency even during busy periods.
• Plan around seasonal needs, local events, and industry cycles. Prepare content during slower periods that can be published during busier times.
• Batch Creation
  Write multiple posts in single sessions when you’re in a writing mindset. This increases efficiency and helps maintain consistency even when daily schedules get hectic.

Promoting Your Local Blog Content

Publishing great content is only half the strategy—you need to ensure local customers actually see it.

• Email Marketing
  Share new blog posts with your email subscribers. This drives immediate traffic while keeping your business top-of-mind with past customers who might refer others.
• Social Media
  Promote blog posts on social platforms where your local customers are active. Focus on platforms where you already have engaged local followers.
• Adapt your message for each platform rather than posting identical content everywhere. Pull different quotes or angles for Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
• Local Business Directories
  Some local business directories allow blog post sharing or news updates. Leverage these platforms to extend your content’s reach within the local community.
• Google My Business
  Share blog posts as updates on your Google My Business profile. This keeps your profile active and can drive traffic from local searchers viewing your business listing.

Measuring Local Blog Success

Track metrics that indicate whether your blog drives business results, not just vanity metrics like total page views.

• Local Organic Traffic
  Monitor how much search traffic comes from your target geographic area. Use Google Analytics to filter traffic by location and see if you’re attracting local visitors.
• Keyword Rankings
  Track rankings for local keywords you’re targeting. Are you appearing for “[your service] near me” or “[your service] in [city]” searches?
• Conversion Actions
  Measure how many blog visitors take desired actions like requesting quotes, calling, or submitting contact forms. Traffic without conversions doesn’t help your business.
• Engagement Metrics
  Look at time on page, scroll depth, and pages per session for blog visitors. High engagement suggests your content resonates with readers.

Common Local Blogging Mistakes to Avoid

Writing for Search Engines Instead of People
While SEO matters, your primary audience is potential customers. Write naturally and helpfully rather than stuffing keywords awkwardly into every paragraph.

Ignoring Mobile Readers
Most local searches happen on mobile devices. Ensure your blog posts are easy to read on phones with short paragraphs, clear formatting, and fast loading times.

Being Too Generic
Content that could apply to any business in any location won’t rank well for local searches. Embrace your specific location and local expertise.

Giving Up Too Soon
Blog SEO takes time. Quality content might not rank immediately, but consistent publishing builds authority that pays dividends long-term.

Neglecting Calls-to-Action
Every post should guide readers toward becoming customers. Don’t leave them wondering what to do next after reading your helpful content.

Building Long-Term Local Authority

A successful local blog strategy compounds over time. Early posts attract modest traffic, but as you build a content library covering many relevant topics, you become increasingly visible for local searches.

Each quality post adds to your authority, links to other posts drive internal engagement, and your expanding content library answers more customer questions. After a year of consistent blogging, you’ll have 12-48 posts working together to attract local traffic.

The businesses that succeed with local blogging commit to the long game. They publish consistently, focus on genuinely helpful content, and view each post as an investment in long-term visibility rather than a quick traffic grab.

Your blog becomes an asset that works continuously to attract local customers, establish expertise, and grow your business—without the ongoing costs of paid advertising.

Your About Us page is one of the most visited pages on your small business website, yet it’s often treated as an afterthought or filled with generic corporate language that fails to connect with potential customers. This page represents an opportunity to build trust, establish credibility, and differentiate your business from competitors.

For small businesses, the About Us page serves a unique purpose. While large corporations use these pages to showcase their global reach and corporate achievements, small businesses should leverage this space to highlight what makes them personal, trustworthy, and valuable to local customers.

Why Your About Us Page Matters

Potential customers visit your About Us page because they want to know who they’re considering doing business with. They’re asking themselves: Can I trust these people? Do they understand my needs? Are they qualified to solve my problem? Will I feel comfortable working with them?

This page isn’t about you—it’s about helping customers feel confident in choosing your business. Every element should answer their unspoken questions and address their concerns about working with a new service provider or buying from an unfamiliar business.

Research consistently shows that About Us pages rank among the top five most visited pages on business websites. Visitors actively seek this information before making contact or purchasing decisions, making it essential to get it right.

What to Include on Your About Us Page

Your Business Story and Mission

Start with why you started your business and what drives you to do this work. Customers connect with authentic stories about real people solving real problems. Your origin story humanizes your business and helps customers understand your motivations beyond profit.

Keep your story focused and relevant to customer concerns. If you started your landscaping business after struggling to find reliable contractors for your own home, that resonates with customers facing the same frustration. If you opened your bakery to bring authentic family recipes to your community, that creates an emotional connection with local customers.

Avoid lengthy chronologies of every business milestone. Focus on the moments that shaped your approach to customer service or inform how you solve customer problems today.

What Makes You Different

Clearly articulate what sets your business apart from competitors. This isn’t about claiming to be “the best” or offering “quality service”—those are meaningless platitudes that every business claims.

Instead, focus on specific, concrete differences:

• Unique processes or approaches you’ve developed
• Specialized training or certifications you hold
• Your specific focus or niche within your industry
• Unusual guarantees or policies that demonstrate confidence
• Community involvement or values that guide your business decisions

For example, a plumbing company might explain their flat-rate pricing system and why they developed it to eliminate surprise charges. A bookkeeping service might detail their weekly communication schedule that keeps clients informed without overwhelming them.

Your Team and Their Expertise

Introduce the people customers will interact with, including yourself, key team members, and anyone who plays a customer-facing role. People do business with people, and seeing the humans behind your business builds trust and familiarity.

For each team member, include:

• Their name and role in the business
• Relevant experience and qualifications
• What they love about their work or what they bring to the team
• A personal detail that makes them relatable (hobbies, local connections, family)

Keep descriptions conversational and warm rather than formal resume listings. “Sarah has 15 years of experience in residential design and loves helping homeowners discover their personal style” connects better than “Sarah Johnson, Lead Designer, BA Interior Design.”

Your Values and Approach

Explain the principles that guide how you run your business and serve customers. This section helps customers understand what working with you will be like and attracts clients who share your values.

Be specific rather than generic. Instead of “We value customer service,” explain “We respond to all inquiries within two hours during business days and provide detailed written estimates so you know exactly what to expect.”

For service businesses, describe your process or methodology. Customers appreciate understanding what happens from initial contact through project completion. This transparency reduces anxiety and builds confidence.

Your Community Connection

For local businesses, demonstrating community involvement and local knowledge is powerful. Mention:

• How long you’ve been serving the area
• Local organizations you support or participate in
• Your understanding of local needs and preferences
• Partnerships with other local businesses
• Team members’ roots in the community

This establishes you as a genuine community member rather than a faceless business that happens to operate in the area.

The Role of Professional Photos

Professional photography on your About Us page is not optional—it’s essential for building trust and credibility with potential customers.

Why Professional Photos Matter

Stock photos are immediately recognizable and signal that you’re either too small to have real team members or unwilling to invest in professional presentation. Neither impression helps you win customers.

Professional photos of your actual team, workspace, and business in action tell customers you’re established, professional, and proud of your business. They provide visual proof that you’re a real, operating business with real people behind it.

Quality photos also signal attention to detail and professionalism. If you care enough to present yourself well on your website, customers assume you’ll bring that same care to their projects or purchases.

What Photos to Include

Your About Us page should include:

• Professional headshots of you and key team members
• Photos of your team at work showing your actual workspace and processes
• Images of your physical location (storefront, office, workshop)
• Candid shots of team interactions that show your culture
• Photos from community events or charitable activities you’ve participated in

Ensure photos are well-lit, high-resolution, and consistent in style. Everyone should be professionally dressed and presented in a way that matches your brand and customer expectations.

Avoid casual cell phone selfies, poorly lit indoor shots, or dated photos from years ago. If your business has changed or grown since the photos were taken, invest in updated photography.

Working With a Professional Photographer

Hiring a professional photographer for business photos is an investment that pays dividends across your entire marketing presence. Budget several hundred to a few thousand dollars depending on your location and the photographer’s experience.

Brief your photographer about your brand, your target customers, and how you want to be perceived. Show examples of business photography you admire and explain what appeals to you about those images.

Plan the shoot carefully with attention to:

• Location (your actual business premises when possible)
• Wardrobe that’s professional but authentic to your business style
• Props or equipment that shows your work
• Natural interactions between team members
• Individual and group shots for flexibility

What NOT to Include

Avoid Industry Jargon and Technical Language

Write for customers, not industry peers. Excessive technical terminology or insider terms makes you seem unapproachable and can confuse potential customers who need your services but don’t share your expertise.

Skip the Generic Claims

Statements like “We’re committed to excellence,” “Your satisfaction is our priority,” or “We provide quality service” are meaningless because every business claims them. Focus on specific, provable differences and concrete examples of how you serve customers.

Don’t Make It All About You

While it’s called an About Us page, the content should focus on how your story, experience, and approach benefit customers. Frame everything in terms of customer value rather than self-congratulation.

Avoid Outdated Information

Keep your About Us page current. Outdated team photos, references to old locations, or mentions of former services create confusion and suggest your business isn’t actively maintained.

Skip the Complete Business History

Customers don’t need to know every detail of your business evolution. Focus on information that’s relevant to their decision-making process and builds confidence in your current capabilities.

Writing Style and Tone

Your About Us page should reflect your authentic business personality while remaining professional and customer-focused.

Use conversational language that sounds like how you actually talk to customers. Read your draft aloud—if it sounds stiff or unnatural, rewrite it in a more relaxed, genuine voice.

Be warm and approachable without being overly casual. The right tone depends on your industry and target customers. A tax attorney’s About Us page will be more formal than a food truck’s, but both should feel human and authentic.

Write in first person (“I” or “we”) rather than third person (“The company”). This creates immediate connection and acknowledges that you’re speaking directly to the reader.

Break up text with descriptive subheadings, short paragraphs, and bullet points where appropriate. Long blocks of uninterrupted text discourage reading, especially on mobile devices.

Strategic Calls-to-Action

Your About Us page should guide interested visitors toward the next step in your sales process.

Include a clear call-to-action that invites readers to:

• Schedule a consultation or meeting
• Request a quote or estimate
• Contact you with questions
• Visit your location or showroom
• Browse your services or products in detail

Place this CTA naturally within the content and again at the page’s end. Make it relevant to the page’s purpose—someone reading about your business is expressing interest and evaluating whether to work with you.

Measuring Success

Monitor your About Us page analytics to understand how well it’s performing. Look at:

• Time spent on the page (longer is generally better)
• Bounce rate (lower suggests engaging content)
• Navigation paths from the About Us page to contact or service pages
• Conversion rate for visitors who view this page

Test different versions of your About Us content to see what resonates with your audience. Sometimes small changes in how you present information significantly impact customer response.

Keeping Your Page Current

Review and update your About Us page at least annually or whenever significant changes occur in your business. This includes:

• New team members joining or people leaving
• Expanded service areas or new offerings
• Relocated business premises
• Updated photos as your team or business evolves
• New certifications, awards, or achievements

An outdated About Us page raises questions about whether your business is still active and engaged.

Final Thoughts

Your About Us page is where potential customers decide whether you’re the right business for their needs. It’s not about impressing them with accomplishments or overwhelming them with history; it’s about making a genuine connection that builds trust.

Focus on authentic storytelling, professional presentation through quality photography, and clear communication of what makes your business valuable to customers. When done well, your About Us page becomes one of your most powerful tools for converting interested visitors into loyal customers.

Google Analytics provides an overwhelming amount of data about your website visitors, but not all metrics are equally valuable for small businesses. The key to leveraging analytics effectively is focusing on metrics that directly inform business decisions and help you understand whether your website is meeting its goals.

This guide will help you identify and understand the Google Analytics metrics that matter most for small business websites, moving beyond vanity metrics to data that drives real improvements in your online presence and revenue.

Understanding the Difference Between Metrics and Insights

Before diving into specific metrics, it’s important to understand that raw numbers alone don’t tell the complete story. A metric becomes meaningful when you understand what it reveals about visitor behavior and how it connects to your business objectives.

For example, knowing you had 1,000 website visitors last month is a metric. Understanding that 60% of those visitors came from mobile devices, spent an average of three minutes on your services page, and 5% requested quotes is the insight that helps you make decisions.

Always ask yourself: “What action can I take based on this information?” If a metric doesn’t lead to potential action or better understanding, it’s probably not worth monitoring closely.

Traffic Sources: Understanding Where Visitors Come From

One of the most valuable sections in Google Analytics is the traffic sources report, which shows how people are finding your website. This information helps you understand which marketing efforts are working and where to focus future resources.

Organic Search Traffic Visitors arriving from search engines like Google represent people actively looking for services or information you provide. High organic traffic indicates strong search engine optimization and relevant content.

Pay attention to which keywords and phrases bring organic traffic. This reveals what problems or services potential customers are searching for, helping you refine your content strategy and service offerings.

If organic traffic is low or declining, it may indicate technical SEO issues, strong competition, or a need for better content optimization.

Direct Traffic Direct traffic includes visitors who type your web address directly into their browser or click from bookmarked links. This typically represents people already familiar with your business from offline marketing, word-of-mouth referrals, or previous visits.

Growing direct traffic often indicates increasing brand awareness and customer loyalty. However, some direct traffic actually comes from untracked sources, so interpret this metric alongside other indicators.

Referral Traffic Referral traffic comes from links on other websites, including business directories, review sites, partner websites, and social media platforms. High-quality referral traffic from relevant websites can bring well-qualified potential customers.

Identify your top referral sources and consider strengthening those relationships or pursuing similar opportunities. If you’re listed in business directories, ensure your information is accurate and complete.

Social Media Traffic Traffic from social platforms shows how effectively your social media presence drives website visits. Compare traffic levels from different platforms to identify where your audience is most active and engaged.

Remember that social media metrics should align with your overall business goals. High social traffic that doesn’t convert into customers or leads may indicate a mismatch between your social audience and your target customers.

User Engagement Metrics: Understanding Visitor Behavior

Engagement metrics reveal how visitors interact with your website once they arrive, providing insights into content effectiveness and user experience quality.

Session Duration

Average session duration shows how long visitors typically spend on your website. Longer sessions generally indicate engaged visitors finding valuable content, though the ideal duration varies by business type and page purpose.

For service businesses, longer sessions on informational pages suggest visitors are thoroughly researching your services. For e-commerce sites, you want enough time for browsing and purchasing but not so long that it indicates confusion or difficulty completing purchases.

Very short session durations across most pages might indicate poor content quality, slow loading times, or a mismatch between visitor expectations and your actual content.

Pages Per Session

This metric shows the average number of pages visitors view during a single session. Multiple page views often indicate engaged visitors exploring your services, products, or content.

Low pages per session might suggest visitors aren’t finding what they need, your navigation is unclear, or your internal linking structure needs improvement.

For small business websites, aim for at least 2-3 pages per session. Visitors should move from entry pages to service details, about pages, or contact information.

Adding Pages Per Session to GA4 Reports
In GA4, the equivalent metric is called “Views per session” or “Pages per session.” To add it to your reports, click the pencil icon to customize the report, select “Metrics” in the right panel, click “Add metric,” and search for “Views per session” or “Pages per session.” Select it from the list and click “Apply.” Like bounce rate, you’ll need to add this metric to each report where you want to see it, as it’s not included in the default GA4 report configurations.

Bounce Rate

Bounce rate shows the percentage of visitors who leave after viewing only one page. High bounce rates aren’t always bad—they depend on page purpose and content type.

A high bounce rate on blog posts might be acceptable if visitors found the information they needed. However, high bounce rates on your homepage or key service pages typically indicate problems with content relevance, page design, loading speed, or user experience. This is when you want to evaluate those pages and start to consider making changes to reduce the bounce rate on those pages.

Examine bounce rates by page and traffic source. Different pages and visitor sources naturally have different engagement patterns.

Adding Bounce Rate to GA4 Reports
In Google Analytics 4 (GA4), you’ll notice that bounce rate isn’t displayed by default in most reports. To add it, navigate to any report where you want to see bounce rate, click the pencil icon (customize report) in the top right corner, then click “Metrics” in the right panel. Click “Add metric” and search for “Bounce rate” in the metric list. Select it and click “Apply” to save your customized report. The bounce rate will now appear as a column in that report. You’ll need to add it separately to each report where you want to see it, as GA4 doesn’t include it automatically like Universal Analytics did.

Conversion Metrics: Measuring Business Results

Conversion metrics directly measure how well your website achieves its business objectives, making them the most important metrics for demonstrating ROI.

Goal Completions

Google Analytics allows you to set up goals representing important visitor actions like form submissions, phone calls, purchases, or specific page views. Goal completion data shows how effectively your website converts visitors into leads or customers.

Common goals for small businesses include:

• Contact form submissions
• Phone number clicks (on mobile devices)
• Online purchases or bookings
• Newsletter signups
• Specific page visits (like pricing or services pages)

Track multiple goals to understand the full range of valuable actions visitors take on your site.

Conversion Rate

Your conversion rate divides goal completions by total visitors, showing the percentage of visitors who take desired actions. This metric reveals how effectively your website turns traffic into business results.

A 2-5% conversion rate is typical for many small business websites, though this varies significantly by industry, traffic source, and what you’re measuring. Focus on improving your own conversion rate over time rather than comparing to industry averages.

Low conversion rates despite healthy traffic suggest issues with your value proposition, call-to-action clarity, trust signals, or the user experience itself.

Conversion Rate by Traffic Source

Examining conversion rates by traffic source reveals which marketing channels bring the most qualified visitors. Some sources might drive high traffic but low conversions, while others bring fewer visitors who convert at higher rates.

This insight helps you allocate marketing resources more effectively. A source bringing 100 visitors with a 10% conversion rate is more valuable than one bringing 1,000 visitors with a 0.5% conversion rate.

Page Performance Metrics: Identifying Top Content

Understanding which pages perform well helps you replicate success and identify improvement opportunities.

Top Landing Pages

Landing pages are where visitors first enter your website. Your top landing pages reveal what content attracts the most interest and which pages make the strongest first impressions.

Optimize your top landing pages carefully since they disproportionately impact overall website performance. Ensure they have clear calls-to-action, compelling content, and intuitive navigation to key pages.

Exit Pages

Exit pages show where visitors most commonly leave your website. High exit rates on thank-you pages or confirmation pages are expected and positive. However, high exit rates on key conversion pages suggest problems preventing visitors from completing desired actions.

Investigate pages with unexpectedly high exit rates for issues like broken forms, unclear next steps, or content that fails to maintain engagement.

Page Value

For websites with e-commerce tracking or goal values assigned, page value shows the average value generated by each page. This reveals which content contributes most to your business objectives, even if it’s not directly involved in conversions.

High page value for blog posts or informational pages indicates they play important roles in moving visitors toward conversion, justifying continued content investment.

Audience Insights: Understanding Who Visits

Demographic and technology data help you understand your audience and ensure your website meets their needs.

Device Category

The breakdown between desktop, mobile, and tablet traffic reveals how visitors access your website. For most local businesses, mobile traffic often exceeds desktop, making mobile optimization critical.

Compare engagement and conversion metrics across device types. If mobile visitors have higher bounce rates or lower conversion rates, your mobile experience may need improvement.

Location Data

Geographic data shows where your visitors are located. For local businesses, most traffic should come from your service area. Traffic from distant locations might indicate SEO opportunities or confusion about your service area.

Use location data to identify expansion opportunities or underserved areas where increased marketing might be effective.

New vs. Returning Visitors

The balance between new and returning visitors provides insights about your marketing effectiveness and customer loyalty. Healthy websites typically see both new visitors (indicating effective marketing and discoverability) and returning visitors (showing value and relationship building).

A website with only new visitors might struggle with engagement or customer retention. Predominantly returning visitors might indicate limited marketing reach or growth potential.

Time-Based Trends: Identifying Patterns

Examining metrics over time reveals trends, seasonal patterns, and the impact of specific changes or marketing campaigns.

Week-Over-Week and Month-Over-Month Comparisons

Regular comparison of current performance to previous periods helps identify growth trends, seasonal variations, and unusual patterns requiring investigation.

Look for correlations between traffic changes and specific business activities, marketing campaigns, or external factors affecting your industry.

Day and Time Patterns

Understanding when visitors typically access your website helps you time content publication, social media posts, and even customer service availability for maximum impact.

Some businesses see different visitor behavior patterns on weekdays versus weekends. Use this information to tailor your approach and set realistic expectations for response times.

Putting Metrics Into Action

The real value of Google Analytics comes from using insights to improve your website and marketing. Create a regular review schedule—monthly for most small businesses—to examine key metrics and identify action items.

Document your findings and the actions you take based on analytics data. This creates a valuable record of what works for your specific business and helps you avoid repeating unsuccessful experiments.

Focus on one or two improvement areas at a time rather than trying to address everything simultaneously. Meaningful improvement comes from sustained attention to specific goals.

Remember that metrics should inform decisions, not make them. Combine analytics data with customer feedback, business intuition, and your understanding of your market to make well-rounded strategic choices.

Moving Beyond Vanity Metrics

Avoid getting distracted by metrics that look impressive but don’t connect to business objectives. Total page views, time on site averages, and even traffic volume matter less than whether those visitors take actions that benefit your business.

The most meaningful metrics answer questions like: Are we attracting the right visitors? Is our website effectively converting visitors into customers? Which marketing efforts provide the best return on investment? Where should we focus improvement efforts?

When you consistently track metrics that answer these questions, Google Analytics transforms from an overwhelming data source into a powerful tool for growing your small business online.

AI is the newest hot topic on the Internet, and it’s taking everything by storm. And you may be wondering how to leverage it for your business. But be warned, you need to know what AI is and what it can do, and to understand how it works so you are using it properly. I use AI almost every day for a myriad of things, from helping me with these blog posts that I’ve been pushing out, to writing code, composing emails, and more. But AI isn’t always right or the right choice. So understanding when to use it is going to be the difference between whether you will benefit from it or not.

What is AI?

In this post, I’m mostly talking about the AI we are all using, like Chat GPT, Gemini, and Claude, etc. ChatGPT and Gemini are examples of Generative AI (GenAI) and are specifically built using Large Language Models (LLMs).

Generative AI (GenAI)

Generative AI is a category of artificial intelligence that can create new content—like text, images, audio, and code—rather than just classifying or analyzing existing data. It learns the patterns and structure of its training data and then generates novel outputs that resemble the original data but are not identical copies.

Large Language Models (LLMs)

LLMs are the engine that powers the text-based capabilities of tools like ChatGPT and Gemini. They are a specific type of Generative AI model that is:

• Large: They contain billions or even trillions of parameters (the values the model learns during training) and are trained on a massive dataset of text from the internet, books, and other sources.
• Trained for Language: They learn the statistical relationships between words and sentences. When you give them a prompt, they essentially predict the most probable and coherent sequence of words to generate a relevant response, whether it’s an answer to a question, a summary, a story, or computer code.

In short: ChatGPT (which runs on OpenAI’s GPT models) and Gemini (which runs on Google’s Gemini models) are conversational interfaces built on top of powerful LLMs that fall under the umbrella of Generative AI.

(FYI, I used Gemini to generate these definitions.)

How I use AI in my business

Like I said in the intro, I use AI practically daily. When I’m writing new blog posts, I use it like I did in the above section, to give me definitions, step-by-step directions, add some technical definitions, etc to blog posts. I use it to generate new blog post ideas, new social media ideas, and to generate meta titles and descriptions for blog posts as well.

I often use it to write code if there’s a function I need that I’m not sure how to do. Sometimes I’ve fed it my own code and asked it to fix it for me when I’m stuck, or when I don’t want to spend my time writing CSS to make something look better, AI can do a pretty good job at that.

Sometimes I use it to do math for me because I’m 49 and my brain doesn’t remember high school math.

Just recently I fed it an email that I’d written that I felt like was coming off passive aggressive and asked it to rewrite it so that it wouldn’t be, and I got a much better version of the email that was not passive aggressive. So that was a big win.

When creating proposals, I will often use it to create introductions or summarize things, or rewrite text that may be too technical so non-technical clients can understand it.

There are lots and lots of good uses for AI.

How I don’t use AI

I never use AI as a search engine, and here’s why. An AI response is designed to give you the answer you WANT. That sounds like a great deal, right? What do I want? Give it to me! But the answer you want may not always be the right answer. In fact, sometimes AI lies to give you the answer you want.

I would never ask AI to make decisions for me if I can’t make up my mind. I wouldn’t ask it to generate content that I wasn’t able to verify accuracy on. I wouldn’t use it for legal advice or fact-checking.

I would never ask AI to give me content that I couldn’t verify myself.

Ways you can use AI to benefit your business

Generating Content

One of the primary ways I encourage people who are looking to use AI is to use it to generate content for their business. New clients getting new websites often struggle with what to write about their business, and depending on the type of business you have, you can get some decent content to get you started.

DO: Write in-depth descriptive prompts to help it understand who you are and what you need.

Example: “Write two paragraphs of content that will go on a business website for a business named Landscapers Plus. This content will go on the weekly lawncare service page and should include information about mowing, edging, and trimming. Weekly service starts in March and lasts through November and costs $150 a month.”

Notice how detailed my prompt is? Using this much information will make it much more likely I’ll get text that is usable and accurate.

Important Note: No matter what text is generated, you MUST read it and verify that it’s accurate for you. So many people end up in an uncomfortable situation because they didn’t read the content they got, and they didn’t verify it for accuracy. Including government agencies. You must must must read and verify.

Bonus Tip: Take the content it generates and add your own spin. Often times AI doesn’t know you well enough to know your tone, so changing words to words you use, adding in an introductory sentence of your own, or adjusting the arrangement will make the text more accurate for you. For example, AI uses the word crucial in a lot of the content it generates for me, and that is a word I almost never use. I find it a red flag that the content is AI generated, so I always change it. Additionally, a lot of content I generate ends up starting with “In today’s digital world…” which is a dead giveaway.

Composing Emails

Ever find yourself struggling to find the right words in an email? AI is great for that. I will often feed an existing email into an AI prompt with instructions to rewrite it to make it more formal, less formal, less passive aggressive, or more professional.

Another great task is to use it to write canned emails you can reuse over and over. Ever have to answer the same question over and over? Feed what you need into AI, and use it to generate a canned response you can save and pull up whenever you need. Bonus points for setting up something like Alfred so you can paste in the email with a keyboard shortcut.

Learning how to use technology

As a member of Generation X, I have grown up with technology, from writing code on my brother’s Commodore 64, learning HTML in college to code my own websites, to making websites now. But not everyone has the same experiences. Want to set up a business email and not sure how? Need step by step instructions on entering DNS records? Want to learn how to add a plugin to WordPress or resize a photo? You can generally find pretty good step-by-step instructions and tutorials for doing these tasks if you write good prompts.

Brainstorming Social Media Ideas

Not sure what to write about on social media? It can be hard! Asking AI to come with ideas for content you can post on social media is a great use. Here are some example prompts:

Prompt 1 Example: “Create ten social media posts that my business, a web design company, can post on X about current web design trends.”

Prompt 2 Example: “Generate a list of the top 10 questions that people have about web design that my business, Sumy Designs, can use on our Facebook page to engage our audience about topics involving WordPress.”

Creating Automation Systems

Automation is one of my favorite things to do, and finding ways to eliminate repetitive tasks, lesson my workload, and streamline my business has been one of the most beneficial things I’ve done. You can use AI to ask for advice and ways to streamline things for your own business as well. Got a situation that takes longer than you think it should and you’d like to find a way to minimize the time you spend on that task? Explain the situation in your prompt, specifically, and ask for ways to automate. You may be surprised with some of the ideas you get.

Once you figure out if any of the automations may be beneficial, you can even use AI to help you create the automations, like explaining how to set up Zapier or other software programs you may need for automation.

Key Takeaways

AI is a tool you can use to enhance and to reduce the work you need to do, but it isn’t a replacement for the work you need to do. Use it with care and caution.

The wording of your prompts is the key to success. The more vague and less detailed it is, the less accurate or usable the response is going to be.

We have been in business now for almost twenty years, and so it has happened that we’ve had clients pass away. Usually we find out after from a family member trying to figure out how to close down their website, and it’s always a sad event. However, I recently got a message from one of my clients who wanted to make advanced plans for the end of her life, so that her website would be taken care of, and hopefully continue to be a resource to others for several years after her death. Many people make wills and plans for their estate, but often times people forget about their digital assets and leave behind a website that can’t be accessed, emails left unanswered, and recurring charges that their family end up paying. If you are thinking about planning for the future, these are things you should think about.

(This post has been inspired by my client Joan Price – feel free to ahead and check out her website.)

So today I’m going to write what I anticipate as being a lengthy blog post on how to plan for your eventual demise. Not a fun topic, but a necessary one.

Question 1: What do you want to happen with your website after you die?

Most of the time when I’ve had a client pass away, the end result is that the website will be shut down and all accounts closed, but that’s not the case for every situation. Do you want to keep your website live for a period as a resource? Do you want to have a message to visitors that you have passed? Do you want the website to be passed to someone else so they can maintain or benefit from it? Before you can plan for what you want to happen, you need to know what you want to happen.

So first, think about what the future of your website will look like after you are gone, and decide how you want it to end or how you want it to live on. If you want to include a message so people who land on your site know you have passed, go ahead and think about writing that up now. Nobody knows you better than you, and it will especially hard for your loved ones to try to come up with the right words once you are gone. It eases their burden and also ensures that you get to say the thing you want to say. (I like having the last word, to be honest.)

Question 2: What assets do you have that someone would need to access if you die?

The first thing you need to know is what all your digital assets are, where they are registered/located/purchased, and how to login to all those accounts. If you don’t know where your stuff is, how will someone else be able to access it after your death?

At the very least, you have a domain name and a web hosting account. These may or may not be purchased from the same vendor. Do you know where yours are? Do you know how to access them? Do you know your login and password? You’d be surprised how many people come to me and don’t know or have access to these critical pieces of information.

So my first recommendation is to make a list of all your digital assets. And to help, I’ve made this Google sheet that you can copy and save for free and edit as needed. I will continue to add to it as I think of things, but it’s fairly comprehensive right now. When you click the link to access it, you do have to be logged into a Google account, and then you’ll be asked if you want to make a copy. This will make a copy of this document so you can start to edit it with your own information.

Keep in mind that if you use something like this tool, you should have a plan in place to update it periodically because things may change between the time you collect the info and the time you pass away. I’d add a yearly note to your calendar to go back and review your sheet to make sure it’s up-to-date.

And if you aren’t already using a password manager like LastPass or 1Password, I would highly recommend you invest in one, add all your passwords, and set up Emergency Access for your trusted executor so they can manage your online accounts after your death.

• LastPass Emergency Access
• 1Password Emergency Kit

Doing something like this and setting up emergency access means that whoever is your emergency contact can sign in to your account and then will have access to all your passwords.

Question 3: Who do you want to designate to take charge of your accounts when you die?

You need to designate a person who is responsible for following through on managing or closing your online accounts. That person needs to be someone who knows what you want to do with your accounts and have access to whatever they need to keep them alive. Keep in mind that at some point, your credit cards will probably get closed, and if your web host or domain provider can’t charge you for services, then your website will get shut down. Maybe that’s what you want anyway, but that’s a decision you need to make.

If you want to keep your website online after you die, you need to make sure that you have a trusted person who can manage it. And my recommendation is you ask someone in advance, and don’t just assume the most tech-savvy person you know wants the job.

Can you just pay your web developer in advance? Well, the problem is that most of us don’t know when our time is going to come to a close and things change. What was the cost to run a website for a year in 2025 may not be the same as what it will be in 2035.

Whether you plan to keep your website going, or plan to shut it down, find a person you trust, but also someone that is fairly well-versed in online/digital accounts, who can either maintain or close your accounts for you.

Question 4: How do you deal with two-factor authentication to login to your accounts?

This is a significant problem when it comes to accessing your online accounts. Two-factor authentication has been a breakthrough in online security, but when it comes to getting people access to your accounts, it can make things difficult and many companies (like Google) don’t really have humans you can contact for help.

Step one is to create a document with your logins, whether that’s using the Google sheet, adding an emergency contact to your password manager, or something else. But having the login and password doesn’t always work because of two-factor authentication.

Two-factor authentication can look like a lot of things. It can mean getting a text, getting an email, getting a verification code, using a special app like Google Authenticator. And each account may be different. Will your executor have access to your email accounts, your phone, your apps? In the sheet I created, I put a column for indicating what kind of authentication each account needs, so the person who takes the helms will know what they’ll have to do.

Another option, and one I recommend, is adding your digital estate person as a delegated administrator to as many accounts as possible, and granting them the highest level of access possible. Not every account has this option, but this at least gives that person a connection to your account, and access to support to that account. I previously wrote a blog post about how to grant delegate access to your accounts, and most of that is still pretty relevant.

Finally, make sure that the person or persons you work with to make your website or other online accounts knows what you want to happen, and who will be contacting them in the event of your death.

Planning ahead for your death isn’t exactly a pleasant thought, but if you are looking for a positive, having all these details ready to go and a plan in place will make the life of your loved ones much easier. I did some digging to see if I could find resources at the various vendors with their policies for death, so check out the list below to find out more. I’m disappointed I couldn’t find more resources from vendors, because people die everyday and this is an unfortunate deed that will need dealt with.

Question 5: What if you don’t have their login, password, or delegate access?

Well, it’s going to be a tough road. The number one thing I see across these websites is that you are going to need a copy of the death certificate of the account owner you are trying to access. You’ll need your own ID and documentation that you are the executor of the digital estate.

Start by finding the Support page for the company you need to gain access, and send an email explaining who you are and what access you need. Provide as much information on the account as you can. Account owners name, the account number if you have it, their email they would have used, phone number, and then your own information, your ID, and the certificate of death.

Even if these vendors don’t have public facing policies regarding what to do (and they should!) – there’s very little chance that these companies haven’t had one of their clients pass away. Someone should be able to help you, although at what speed and at what lengths or hoops they make you jump through will vary.