For many of the accountants who are first referred to as, a website is something like a business card – a necessity, and a way to meet clients, but not something that needs to be flashy or outstanding. We understand that point of view, but we don’t agree with it.
At Biondo Creative we have had the chance to work with a number of professional services firms throughout Philadelphia and the surrounding area. What we’ve seen again and again is that websites matter. That’s true for accountants, just like it is for doctors, dentists, lawyers, and engineers.
It’s one thing to know you need a great website, though, and another to understand exactly what that should look like. So, what would clients hope and expect to see on an accountant’s website? Here are a few of our must-haves…
Clear Layouts and Navigation
Potential clients notice the layout in visual quality of your website before they have a chance to take in the text and meaning. So, it’s important that your pages give a sense of professionalism and credibility above all else. That means a clean layout with lots of white space and a clear navigation structure that allows someone who is interested in your work to find the information and answers they need quickly.
A List of Specialized Services
What kind of accounting practice do you have? Which kinds of clients do you want to serve, and why should they work with you? These are important questions that need to be addressed immediately on your website. Perhaps you work with businesses or individuals, focus on corporations and estates, or only serve clients in certain areas. Make sure someone who is visiting your website for the first time could glean all of these details in just a few seconds or less.
A Professional Bio and Photo
Once a possible client understands who you are and what you do, their next question is whether they can trust you to perform the work. For that reason, they are highly likely to take a close look at your online bio. They’ll make judgments and assumptions based on your photo, of course, but also your education, the tone of your description, and even the way you describe your personal interests.
Testimonials from Happy Clients
No matter how professional and competent you seem, clients are always going to believe what other people say about you more than they will what you say about yourself. Having a number of written testimonials – or even better, videos where clients vouch for your value and professionalism – can go a long way towards convincing prospects that you are the accountant they want to hire.
Does Your Online Marketing Plan Add up to Success?
If you’ve never made a serious effort to attract accounting clients on the internet, or have seen your past campaigns come up short, now is the time to look for expert help. Let the creative minds at Biondo Creative pitch in and help out. Contact us today so we can review your existing website and develop a plan that pushes your firm forward. There is no obligation and it just might be a turning point in the future of your business.