10 Website Mistakes That Make People Leave Instantly (And How to Fix Them)
Your website is your business’s digital front door — and first impressions really count. Even small errors in design or usability can send potential customers clicking away before they’ve had a chance to explore what you offer. Whether you run a small business or freelance in the UK, avoiding these common website mistakes will help you keep visitors engaged and turn them into loyal clients.
1. Slow Loading Times
Why it matters:
In the UK and worldwide, internet users expect websites to load quickly. Research shows that if your website takes more than 3 seconds to load, over half of visitors will leave before even seeing your content.
How to fix it:
Optimise images and use compressed formats like WebP.
Use reliable hosting services with good server speeds.
Minimise heavy scripts and unnecessary plugins.
Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights to monitor and improve speed.
2. Cluttered and Confusing Layouts
Why it matters:
A messy, overcrowded website overwhelms visitors and makes it hard for them to find what they need. This often leads to frustration and quick exits.
How to fix it:
Use plenty of white space to separate content clearly.
Stick to a simple, consistent colour scheme and font choice.
Use clear headings and bullet points to break up text.
Prioritise your key messages on the homepage and service pages.
3. Poor Mobile Optimisation
Why it matters:
More than half of web traffic in the UK comes from mobile devices. If your site isn’t mobile-friendly, visitors will struggle to navigate, causing them to leave.
How to fix it:
Use responsive design so your site adapts to any screen size.
Make buttons and links large enough to tap easily.
Test your site on various devices before launch.
Avoid pop-ups that block content on mobile screens.
4. Lack of Clear Call-to-Actions (CTAs)
Why it matters:
Visitors need clear guidance on what to do next — whether that’s contacting you, booking a service, or signing up for a newsletter. Without strong CTAs, your site won’t convert visitors into leads.
How to fix it:
Use prominent buttons with action words like “Get a Quote”, “Contact Us”, or “Book Now”.
Place CTAs above the fold and at the end of pages.
Ensure CTAs stand out visually using contrasting colours.
5. Outdated Design and Branding
Why it matters:
An outdated website can make your business look unprofessional or inactive. This can damage trust, especially when competing against modern sites.
How to fix it:
Use a clean, modern design style that reflects your brand identity.
Update your logo, colours, and fonts if needed.
Keep content fresh and up to date.
Consider a redesign every 3-5 years to stay current.
6. Difficult or Hidden Contact Information
Why it matters:
If potential customers can’t quickly find how to get in touch, they’re unlikely to stay on your site or follow through with an enquiry.
How to fix it:
Include your phone number, email, and address in the header or footer on every page.
Add a dedicated Contact page with a form and map if applicable.
Make contact buttons clickable on mobile devices.
7. Too Much Text and No Visuals
Why it matters:
Walls of text can be boring and hard to read. Without visuals like images, icons, or videos, visitors lose interest quickly.
How to fix it:
Break text into small paragraphs with headings.
Use relevant images, icons, or graphics to support content.
Incorporate videos or animations where appropriate to engage users.
8. Ignoring SEO Basics
Why it matters:
Without optimising for search engines, your ideal customers may never find your site — no matter how good it looks.
How to fix it:
Use relevant keywords naturally in page titles, headings, and content.
Write clear meta descriptions that encourage clicks.
Optimise image alt text and URLs.
Ensure your site is fast, secure (HTTPS), and mobile-friendly.
9. No Testimonials or Social Proof
Why it matters:
People trust other people’s experiences. Without testimonials, case studies, or reviews, your site can feel less trustworthy.
How to fix it:
Add a testimonials section on your homepage or services pages.
Include client logos or case studies if relevant.
Link to your social media profiles or review sites like Google My Business.
10. Overusing Pop-Ups and Ads
Why it matters:
While pop-ups can be effective, too many or intrusive ones annoy visitors and increase bounce rates.
How to fix it:
Use pop-ups sparingly and only when they add value (e.g. newsletter signup).
Make sure they’re easy to close, especially on mobile.
Avoid auto-playing ads or large banners that distract from your content.
Final Thoughts: Keep Visitors Engaged and Grow Your Business Online
Avoiding these common website mistakes is key to building trust, improving user experience, and converting visitors into customers. If you’re a small business or freelancer in the UK looking for affordable, professional web design tailored to your needs, I’m here to help!
Feel free to get in touch for a chat about how we can create a website that works for your business and your budget.
Ready to get started with a freelance web designer? Contact me today for expert guidance and a custom-built solution tailored to your needs!
