Last year my husband and I started an Asphalt Sealcoating business and normally I wouldn’t have dared launch without designing a stunning website first, but we were late in the season and I knew I had to let my pride go and get going.

And for most solopreneurs or small service-based businesses, that is the right move! We hear often ‘done is better than perfect’ and ‘start before you’re ready’ and I actually completely agree!

The launching ‘to do’ list can go on forever if you let it, so I started a quick Linktree account so I could have something to drop our Stripe checkout links into that were remotely professional and away we went lol!

But you better believe that the second the clock struck ‘Spring of 2024’ I was click-clacking along in Showit creating our Apex Asphalt website because as someone who truly needs to get a snapshot of someones professionalism herself before she hires Contractors, I knew we lost potential jobs last year because of our lack of a website.

When I started So Good Designs, being able to provide simple (and stunning) professional website templates for small service-based businesses was important to me.

Over the last decade, we’ve launched three businesses (including asphalt sealcoating) and while we did well with referrals, it was our websites that really took our credibility to another level with dream clients who were looking for a contractor they could trust.

I have been working hard on my Template Shop (while also creating custom websites for clients and working on a few more projects that will roll out later this Summer ?) but the thing I am most excited about is seeing how these templates will serve those small businesses that are overwhelmed by websites as a whole.

The So Good Designs template shop creates affordable, simple to update, and professional website templates for service-based businesses who want to build trust with their dream clients by showcasing their expertise on a website they are proud to send their prospects to.

In today’s digital age, Linktree seems to be the go-to for many solopreneurs looking to streamline their online presence. With a simple interface and quick setup, it’s a convenient way to share multiple links with followers. But does this mean websites are a thing of the past? Absolutely not! Let’s dive into why having a dedicated website is still crucial for your business, especially if you’re aiming to attract your dream clients.

The Allure of Linktree: A Quick Fix

I get it—Linktree is like the Swiss Army knife of link sharing. One link in your bio can direct followers to your Instagram, latest blog post, booking page, and more. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it feels oh-so-efficient. For those of us juggling a million tasks, it’s a godsend. But here’s the kicker: convenience doesn’t always equal effectiveness.

Your Website: The Ultimate Brand Experience

Imagine walking into a beautifully decorated boutique versus a generic department store. Which one leaves a lasting impression? Your website is your boutique—it’s your digital home where your brand’s personality shines through. From custom designs to personalized messaging, a website offers a level of professionalism and trust that Linktree simply can’t match.

1. First Impressions Matter

You’ve got less than 7 seconds to make a killer first impression. While Linktree is functional, it’s also pretty bland. A well-designed website, on the other hand, wows your visitors from the get-go. It’s an opportunity to showcase your unique style, highlight testimonials, and present your services in a visually appealing way. Think of it as your digital handshake—it should be firm, confident, and memorable.

2. SEO: The Secret Sauce

Here’s where the techy stuff comes in. Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is a game-changer for getting found online. A personalized website with well-crafted content, optimized keywords, and regular updates ranks higher on search engines. Linktree doesn’t offer the same SEO benefits, meaning you’re missing out on organic traffic that could be flowing to your site like a river of dream clients.

3. Credibility and Trust

A professional website signals to potential clients that you mean business. It’s like wearing a tailored suit to a meeting instead of showing up in sweatpants. Your website can include detailed information about your services, a portfolio of your work, and client testimonials—all of which build credibility and trust. When clients see you’ve invested in a professional website, they’re more likely to trust you with their business.

4. Analytics: Know Your Audience

Want to know who’s visiting your site, what they’re clicking on, and how long they’re staying? Your website’s analytics can provide a wealth of information about your audience’s behavior. This data is invaluable for refining your marketing strategies and tailoring your services to meet their needs. Linktree? Not so much.

Combining Forces: The Best of Both Worlds

Now, I’m not saying ditch Linktree entirely. It can be a handy tool for social media bios and quick link sharing. But think of it as a sidekick to your superhero website. Use Linktree to direct traffic to your main site, where the real magic happens. It’s all about creating a cohesive digital presence that works together to support your business goals.

Conclusion: Your Website is Your Digital Home

In a world of quick fixes and instant gratification, a professionally designed website stands out as a beacon of quality and reliability. It’s the foundation of your online presence, the hub where potential clients get to know, like, and trust you. So, while Linktree has its place, it’s your website that will ultimately set you apart and help you build a thriving business.

Ready to make a lasting impression? Check out some of our So Good Designs website templates that showcase just how amazing you are in your industry. After all, your dream clients deserve nothing less!