What Should Actually Go on Your Website (and What You Can Leave Out)
Because more words ≠ more clarity — especially on a business website.
There’s a moment in almost every project when a client says:
“I know I’m over-explaining, but I just want them to get it.”
Totally fair. You’re building something that matters — of course you want your website to reflect that.
But here’s the thing:
Your business website isn’t a memoir.
It’s not a portfolio of everything you’ve ever done.
It’s a decision tool.
The more your reader has to scroll, squint, or decode what you do… the more likely they are to bounce.
So, let’s get to the good stuff:
What to Include on Your Website
A Clear, Client-Focused Headline
Skip “Welcome to my site!”
Skip “Helping women shine bright” (no one knows what that means).
Instead, try this structure:
“I help [your audience] get [a result] through [your service].”
Example:
“Life coaching for women 40+ ready to start something new after corporate life.”
One sentence. Big clarity.
One Offer (Or One Path to Get Started)
Don’t overwhelm them with options.
Pick your main offer and explain it simply:
- What it is
- Who it’s for
- What they’ll get
- How to begin
If you’ve got multiple services, use a “Start Here” section or a short overview that points people to what fits them best.
A Human, Helpful About Section
This is where most people spiral.
You don’t need your whole origin story. Just tell us:
- Why you care about this work
- What makes your approach different
- What it’s like to work with you
Optional: Add one or two fun facts — not your résumé, just something real.
One Simple Call to Action
You’re the guide. Tell them what to do next.
Options:
- “Book a free call”
- “Let’s talk about your project”
- “DM me ‘STEADY’ for next steps”
Just make it easy — and obvious — to take action.
What You Can Leave Out on Your Website
Let’s release you from the pressure to say everything.
You can skip:
- Your entire career timeline
- Every credential or certificate
- Passion paragraphs that start with “Ever since I was a kid…”
- Long testimonials with no headline or summary
- Mission statements that don’t connect to a real offer
Those things might belong somewhere — but not at the top of your homepage.
Final Word: Clarity First. Story Later.
Your website isn’t about proving how smart or passionate you are.
It’s about helping the right person feel confident saying “yes.”
Start with clarity.
Then add the nuance.
And if you’re still sitting on an “almost done” website that’s 17 tabs deep in Google Docs — I’ve got you.
Let’s clean it up and get you live — without the spiral.
If you have any problems downloading the document, please email beth@manateedigitalmedia.com
