Websites Made Simple: How to have a successful website design business
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Why you need to outsource in your website design business
If you're putting in the work, showing up, doing everything you can ? and still turning over the same amount of money year on year ? this episode is for you.
It's a supportive group mentoring session for website designers and developers to bring their questions, roadblocks, ideas, and "is it just me?" moments.
Hi and welcome to another episode of Websites Made Simple with me, Holly Christie.
In this episode, I'm talking about the money mindset patterns that can sometimes keep web designers stuck, what it actually means to outsource and invest in your business, and how to get out of your own way so you can finally start earning what you deserve.
We get into:
Why so many web designers drop their prices before the client has even had a chance to respondThe power of the pauseWhy payment plans for hosting and maintenance are non-negotiable recurring revenueWhat a money mindset ceiling looks like, and why it keeps you stuck at the same figureThe real maths behind outsourcing to a VAWhy website designers bottleneck their own businessesMy personal story of working every evening after the kids went to bedHow to get out of your own way, stop doing everything yourself, and start running a business that actually works for youIf you're working hard but not seeing the financial results to match, this episode will show you exactly what's holding you back ? and it might just be you.
Come and find out more at https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk or email me at [email protected]
Skip to the good bits:
00:00 What's really holding back your web design business
01:17 Turning over the same money year on year ? why it happens
02:00 What levelling up really means
02:44 Self-sabotaging behaviours ? do any of these sound like you?
05:47 Why even getting a client on a call earns your seat at the table
07:27 Money mindset ceilings: stuck at the same income figure
10:03 Outsourcing to a VA: the real numbers
12:19 "You're halving your hourly rate" ? the hard truth from a good friend
13:55 Get out of your own way and earn what you deserve
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Link to episode
Website Designers - You Think You've Got SEO Covered? Think Again!
If a client has ever asked you "When will my website be found on Google?" ? and you didn?t quite know how to answer ? this episode is for you.
Check out my new offer: https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/sparks-group-mentoring/ It's a supportive group mentoring session for website designers and developers to bring their questions, roadblocks, ideas, and "is it just me?" moments.
Welcome to another episode of Websites Made Simple with me, Holly Christie.
In this episode, I?m talking about where your role as a web designer ends and where an SEO specialist?s begins ? and why knowing that difference could genuinely change the quality of the websites you deliver and the reputation you build.
We get into:
The difference between building an SEO-friendly website and delivering SEO servicesWhat you ARE responsible for in every build (and where the line is)How to find an SEO specialist you actually like working withWhy you should bring them in before the build starts, not afterWhat an SEO specialist actually produces and how to show clients the valueHow to handle clients who don?t want to pay for SEO supportWhether to build the SEO cost into your website priceWhy the relationship goes both ways ? and how SEO specialists can become a referral source for youIf you?ve ever felt unsure about where SEO fits in your process, this will help you get clear, get confident, and start building better websites with the right people around you.
Come and find out more at https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk or email me at [email protected]
And here?s the link if you want to learn more about Neal and Podknows: https://podknows.co.uk/
Skip to the good bits:
01:15 ?When will my website be found on Google??
01:41 What web designers ARE responsible for in SEO
02:34 SEO-friendly ? SEO services
02:57 Nikki Pilkington
03:44 Find an SEO specialist you vibe with
04:44 Bring them in before the build starts
05:03 What your SEO specialist will actually produce
06:14 When the client won?t pay for SEO
07:03 Build the SEO cost into your website price
08:24 It goes both ways: the referral relationship
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Link to episode
Cheap £99 website builds are killing your website design business
If you?ve been tempted to move to a £99 a month website model ? or you?ve been quietly cutting your prices just to get work through the door ? this episode is a direct intervention.
Psst! Check out my new offer: https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/sparks-group-mentoring/ It?s a supportive group mentoring session for website designers and developers to bring their questions, roadblocks, ideas, and ?is it just me?? moments.
Welcome to another episode of Websites Made Simple with me, Holly Christie.
In this episode, I?m talking about why the £99 website model isn?t the sustainable business move it might look like on paper ? and what to do instead when the market feels slow.
We get into:
How the maths of volume pricing simply don?t add upThe burnout that comes with trying the modelWhy ongoing payment plans are bad newsThe hidden costs that slowly erode client trustWhat to do insteadIf you?re a web designer wondering whether dropping your prices is the answer, this episode will give you the confidence to hold firm.
Come and find out more at https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk or email me at [email protected]
Skip to the good bits:
00:00 Why the £99 website model doesn?t work
00:35 Meet Holly: Websites Made Simple
00:46 Who this episode applies to
01:45 The volume problem: you?d need 30 clients for £3,000
04:14 Burnout is baked into this model
04:38 Scope creep and the ongoing payment trap
06:32 Hidden costs and eroding client trust
08:34 Email hosting, DNS, and the chaos that follows
11:19 Content collection in a low-cost model
12:26 Hold your nerve: panic pricing makes it worse
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Link to episode
How AI and Vibe Coding Puts Your Website Design Business At Risk
AI is everywhere ? and so is everyone telling you to use it for everything. But when it comes to your website, your plugins, and the work you ship for clients, the wrong AI shortcut can quietly become a serious liability.
Check out my Sparks Group Training for anyone and everyone involved in the publishing of websites, from copywriters to SEOs: https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/sparks-group-mentoring/ It?s a supportive group mentoring session for website designers and developers to bring their questions, roadblocks, ideas, and ?is it just me?? moments.
Welcome to a special bonus episode of Websites Made Simple with me, Holly Christie. (Quick note ? my podcast mic was misbehaving for this one, so the audio is not quite up to our usual standard. My producer Neal at Podknows has worked his magic to clean it up, so please do stick with it. The conversation is genuinely worth your time.)
I am joined by senior developer Rob Fisher to talk about where AI actually helps in web design, where it absolutely does not, and the security and stability risks nobody is being loud enough about.
We get into:
Why vibe coding is not a shortcut, it is a stack of technical debt waiting to break
How LLMs really work, and why they hallucinate when you let them
Why your prompt boundaries matter as much as your prompt
The chatbot that gave a customer 85 percent off a 10,000 dollar order
What the October 2025 AWS outage tells us about AI first dev cultures
Why AI tools are junior developers, not senior ones, and what that means for your business
Why vibe coded WordPress plugins are a house of cards
How a ?safe? plugin can become a Trojan horse with one auto update
What is actually changing in WordPress 7
If you are a designer or developer trying to work out where AI fits into your business without putting your clients at risk, this one is for you.
Come and find out more at https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk or email me at [email protected]
Skip to the good bits:
00:00 Bonus episode intro and audio note
01:18 Where AI fits in running a web business
02:34 Vibe coding and why it is a shortcut too far
05:12 The flip side, vibe coding as a learning tool
06:48 Tech debt: your vibe coded site is a liability waiting to break
07:45 What AI cannot do for user journeys and design psychology
09:20 How LLMs actually work, probability engines not brains
11:30 Hallucinations and the suspiciously short prompt
13:05 Prompt boundaries and staying on topic
15:10 What system prompts at OpenAI and Anthropic actually look like
17:00 The chatbot that gave away an 85 percent discount on a 10,000 dollar order
19:40 AI first dev houses and the October 2025 AWS outage
22:15 Microsoft layoffs and the AI replacement myth
24:30 Why generative AI is a junior developer, not a senior one
26:20 Vibe coded plugins, the house of cards problem
28:50 The WordPress plugin ecosystem and what it lets in
31:00 How a safe plugin becomes a Trojan horse overnight
33:15 WP Rocket, All in One Migration and the malicious update problem
34:50 WordPress 7 and the new AI APIs, and why it will not feel revolutionary
37:00 Block editor improvements and the abstraction layer problem
38:40 Final thoughts and how to get in touch
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Link to episode
Every Website Designer Feels Like a Fraud Sometimes. Here's What To Do About It
Imposter syndrome doesn?t care how good you are. It shows up anyway ? making you hesitate before you send a contract, stumble over your words on a call, or scroll past someone else?s work and quietly wonder if you?re good enough.
In this episode of Websites Made Simple, Holly Christie gets honest about imposter syndrome in web design. Why it hits so hard in a self-taught industry. Why tech shaming on LinkedIn makes it worse. And what you can actually do to push through it, level up, and stop letting self-doubt quietly run your business.
We talk about:
Why imposter syndrome affects experienced and award-winning designers tooThe problem with tech shaming (and why the tool you use doesn?t define your worth)Why there?s a seat at the table for every web designerHow to stay in your lane and focus on your own growthWhat to do when your processes feel messy or your designs feel staleHow to push outside your comfort zone and keep developingWhy you?re probably doing much better than you thinkChapters:
00:00 Imposter syndrome ? it comes for all of us
04:28 When LinkedIn chips away at your confidence
07:35 Stay in your lane and look forward
08:20 Tighten up your processes and onboarding
09:30 What to do when your designs feel stale
10:45 Pushing outside your comfort zone
12:05 You?re doing better than you think
? Want Holly?s Sparks Group Mentoring? Find out more here: https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/sparks-group-mentoring/
? Website: https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk
? Email: [email protected]
? LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hollycchristie/
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Link to episode
The SEO Problem That Popup Plugins Won't Tell You About!
If you keep finding yourself building features your clients ask for that quietly make their websites worse, this one's for you.
Welcome to another episode of Websites Made Simple with me, Holly Christie.
In this episode, I'm talking about popups ? why they're usually doing the opposite of what your clients think they're doing, what to say when a client is dead set on having one, and what to do instead to keep conversions high without frustrating visitors straight off the page.
We get into:
Why popups interrupt the user experience in the worst possible wayHow popup design often looks spammy and quietly damages trustThe SEO problem that popup plugins don't tell you about (hint: it's your H1)Why exit intent popups feel like surveillance ? and why that's a problemHow caching plugins can break popups entirely anywayWhat slide-ins are and how to use them without being annoyingFloating buttons ? how to use them properly (and what not to do on mobile)Dedicated signup sections that convert without the disruptionHow to push back when a client is dead set on having a popupCheck out my new offer: https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/sparks-group-mentoring/
It's a supportive group mentoring session for website designers and developers to bring their questions, roadblocks, ideas, and "is it just me?" moments.
Come and find out more at https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk or email me at [email protected]
Skip to the good bits:
00:00 Why popups might be hurting your clients' websites
01:11 Welcome and intro
01:39 Why popups interrupt the user experience
03:26 Popups block content and the SEO problem
06:01 Exit intent, popup frequency and the surveillance feeling
08:11 Slide-ins as a smarter alternative
10:30 Floating buttons done right
12:00 Dedicated signup sections that convert without disruption
14:23 How to push back when clients ask for popups
15:28 Wrap-up and how to get in touch
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Join my Sparks Group Mentoring Programme
Link to episode
How To Add 404 Pages To Your Websites That DON'T Suck!
If you're not including links pages and custom 404 pages in your website builds, you're leaving money on the table ? and doing your clients a disservice.
Check out my new offer: https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/sparks-group-mentoring/ It's a supportive group mentoring session for website designers and developers to bring their questions, roadblocks, ideas, and "is it just me?" moments.
Welcome to another episode of Websites Made Simple with me, Holly Christie.
In this episode, I'm talking about two of the most underrated pages in website design: the links page (your on-brand, SEO-friendly alternative to Linktree) and the custom 404 page.
Both are quick to build, easy to position as a value add, and a genuinely great way to stand out from designers who aren't sweating the details.
We get into:
Why Linktree and similar tools can actually hurt your reach on social media platformsHow a links page on your own website works with your SEO and drives traffic where you want itWhat to put on a links page to make it genuinely useful ? and how to make it your ownWhy most 404 pages are a completely wasted opportunityHow to design a 404 page that gets visitors back on track (and even puts a smile on their face)Why these pages should be built into your project cost, not offered as an upsellThe one quick check you can do on your own website right nowHow showcasing these pages on your own site helps attract the right clientsIf you want to impress clients, add real value to your builds, and start standing out from designers who aren't going the extra mile ? this one is for you.
Come and find out more at https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk or email me at [email protected]
Skip to the good bits:
00:00 Stop leaving these pages out of your website builds
00:30 Why Linktree and Linke hurt your social media reach
01:02 Build a links page on your own website instead
02:00 What to put on your links page
03:10 Keeping links pages simple but effective on mobile
04:30 Links pages, SEO, and sending traffic to your own site
05:00 How to charge for links pages (don't make it optional)
05:44 The problem with generic 404 pages
06:20 How to check if your 404 page is customised right now
07:20 Adding personality and fun to your 404 page
08:14 Using 404 pages to redirect and re-engage visitors
10:02 Start with your own website first
Mentioned in this episode:
Join my Sparks Group Mentoring Programme
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Link to episode
Stop Selling Websites. Sell This Instead.
If you're wondering why clients aren't buying from you or why the ones who do seem to undervalue your work, the answer isn't always more leads ? it's the experience you're creating from the very first touchpoint.
Welcome to another episode of Websites Made Simple with me, Holly Christie.
In this episode, I'm talking about what we are really selling when we are selling websites ? and it's not the number of pages or the platform. It's the experience. From the first discovery call to the handover manual, every touchpoint either builds confidence or erodes it.
We get into:
Why discovery calls convert better than email enquiries ? and how to structure themHow to follow up after a call so you stop losing warm leadsWhat your contracts should protect you from (and why so many designers get this wrong)How to keep clients informed and feeling involved throughout the buildWhen to refer out ? and why knowing your boundaries makes you more professional, not lessWhat good aftercare looks like (hint: it's not a two-hour Zoom dump)Why you should be checking on the results your websites produce for clientsIf you want better clients, better money, and a process that makes people tell their friends about you, this one is for you.
Check out: https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/sparks-group-mentoring/ It's a supportive group mentoring session for website designers and developers to bring their questions, roadblocks, ideas, and "is it just me?" moments.
Come and find out more at https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk or email me at [email protected]
Skip to the good bits:
00:00 What you're really selling (it's not a website)
01:30 Why discovery calls convert better than email
03:00 Screen sharing and building confidence on the call
03:41 Following up after the call ? and why timing matters
05:00 The follow-up email template Holly uses
06:00 How many times to follow up before letting go
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Link to episode
Stop charging hourly for website design work!
Check out my new offer: https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/sparks-group-mentoring/ It?s a supportive group mentoring session for website designers and developers to bring their questions, roadblocks, ideas, and ?is it just me?? moments.
If you keep attracting bargain clients, it?s usually not because you need more leads.
It?s because your pricing model is less than optimal... mostly because your brand signals are a bit muddled, and your website is not doing enough heavy lifting before someone ever speaks to you.
Welcome to another episode of Websites Made Simple with me, Holly Christie.
In this episode, I?m talking about why charging hourly for your web design projects is holding you back ? from better clients, better income, and a calmer business.
We get into:
Why hourly pricing puts you in a race to the bottomHow project pricing builds confidence on both sidesWhy clients feel cheated when hourly quotes run overHow scope creep is easier to manage with project pricingWhat bundled pricing looks like in practiceHow to work with freelancers and white labellers without losing moneyWhy the clients who can't afford you aren't your peopleHow to quote higher and still win the workIf you want better clients, fewer arguments over invoices, and more peace of mind about your income, this one's for you.
Come and find out more at https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk or email me at [email protected]
Skip to the good bits:00:00 Stop charging hourly ? why it hurts your income
01:09 Why everyone has an hourly rate (and why that's the problem)
02:55 What project pricing actually looks like
03:42 How project pricing helps you prioritise your work
04:34 Scope creep and why hourly makes it worse
05:48 Bundled pricing: what goes into a project quote
07:23 Working with freelancers and white labellers
09:44 If they can't afford you, they're not your people
10:31 How project pricing creates better clients
11:43 Sparks Group Mentoring and how to join
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Join my Sparks Group Mentoring Programme
Link to episode
Why Your SEO-Friendly Website Isn't Ranking
If you?ve ever delivered a well built, SEO friendly website and then found yourself being blamed when it doesn?t rank or generate leads, this episode will feel very familiar.
Welcome to another episode of Websites Made Simple with me, Holly Christie.
Check out my new offer:
https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/sparks-group-mentoring/
It?s a supportive group mentoring session for website designers and developers to bring real questions, tricky client situations, fuzzy boundaries, and those moments where you?re thinking, ?This isn?t actually my job, is it??
In this episode, I?m joined by SEO specialist Nikki Pilkington to talk about the difference between SEO friendly and SEO optimised, and why that distinction matters so much for web designers.
We dig into how good websites end up being labelled ?not working?, how easily expectations drift, and why web designers often carry responsibility for outcomes that sit firmly outside their role.
We get into:
? What SEO friendly actually means from a web design and build perspective
? Why SEO friendly is a baseline, not a ranking strategy
? How ?just add the keywords? quietly sets you up for problems later
? Where your responsibility as a designer genuinely starts and ends
? Why selling SEO as a one off is a trap, even when clients ask for it
? How blurred roles damage trust between designers, SEOs, and clients
? The conversations that protect you before a project even begins
? How to stop your work being judged on results you were never hired to deliver
If you want clearer boundaries, more confident explanations, and fewer projects where everyone looks bad six months later, this episode will help you put language around things you probably already feel.
Come and find out more at https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk
or email me at [email protected]
Skip to the good bits:00:00 Why designers get blamed for SEO results
01:21 SEO friendly vs SEO optimised (what you are actually delivering)
02:40 How client expectations quietly drift
03:49 What is and isn?t a web designer?s job
08:10 Why SEO can never be ?done?
11:00 Where projects start going wrong
15:24 The danger of saying yes to everything
17:13 What good SEO collaboration looks like
20:40 Protecting trust in your work
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Join my Sparks Group Mentoring Programme
Link to episode
Stop Attracting Bargain Website Design Clients: Build a Brand That Sells!
Check out my new offer: https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/sparks-group-mentoring/ It?s a supportive group mentoring session for website designers and developers to bring their questions, roadblocks, ideas, and ?is it just me?? moments.
If you keep attracting bargain clients, it?s usually not because you need more leads.
It?s because your brand signals are a bit muddled, and your website is not doing enough heavy lifting before someone ever speaks to you.
Welcome to another episode of Websites Made Simple with me, Holly Christie.
In this episode, I?m talking about how to level up in your web design business by building a stronger brand, showing up with more intention, and making more money without trading time for money.
We get into:
How to make your website properly represent the work you want more of Why constantly rebranding can quietly damage trust How to show up consistently without spreading yourself thin What strategic content looks like (not just personal updates) How to use FAQs and pre call emails so clients arrive already informed Why your network matters, and how to grow it without cold pitching How to get known for one or two things so you stop being ?just another designer? Why podcasting and email can support long term marketing, without the daily noiseIf you want better clients, better boundaries, and fewer awkward sales calls that start from scratch, this will help you tighten things up.
Come and find out more at https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk or email me at [email protected]
And here's the link if you want to learn more about Neal and Podknows: https://podknows.co.uk/
Skip to the good bits:00:00 Level up your web design business
01:09 Brand consistency and your website signals
03:41 Showing up consistently on social media
04:42 Strategic content that makes your work obvious
08:00 FAQ content that answers buyer questions
09:00 Let your website do the heavy lifting before the call
09:56 Networking without cold pitching
12:35 Get known for one or two things
16:01 Why web designers should start a podcast
17:34 Use your email list properly
19:00 Start now, not ?after this project?
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Join my Sparks Group Mentoring Programme
Link to episode
Podcasting For Website Designers: What Works and What Doesn't
Check out my new offer - https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/sparks-group-mentoring/ - a supportive group mentoring session created specifically for website designers and developers to bring their questions, roadblocks, ideas, and ?is it just me?? moments
Podcasting can be a powerful marketing tool for website designers ? but only if it?s done with intention.
Welcome to another episode of Websites Made Simple with me, Holly Christie!
In this episode, I share what I?ve learned from nearly two years of podcasting for my web developer mentoring and website design business. I cover strategy, production, audio quality, SEO, and, honestly, the expectations you should have.
Most importantly, I share where I learned what I could have done better, what I did wrong and where I?ve seen others stumble, too.
I talk about how to plan before you hit record.
I explore the stuff I underestimated, like how much audio quality matters.
I explain why relying on Zoom hurts listener retention, how podcast SEO is a thing, and why downloads grow slowly (spoiler: that?s normal).
I?ll also show you how podcasting fits into a long?term marketing strategy rather than a quick win.
If you?re a website designer thinking about starting a podcast ? or wondering why yours hasn?t gained traction ? what I?ve learned should help you reset your expectations and do it properly.
Come and find out more at websitesmadesimple.co.uk or email me at [email protected]
Here are the links if you want to learn more about Neal and Podknows:
Skip to the good bits:00:00 "Podcasting: Consult, Plan, Produce"
06:19 "Engaging and Concise Podcasting Tips"
07:14 "Podcasting Goals and Advertising"
10:45 "Boost Your Podcast with SEO"
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Join my Sparks Group Mentoring Programme
Link to episode
Vibe Coding: Sounds Clever. Here's Why it's Total Crap
Check out my new offer - https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/sparks-group-mentoring/ - a supportive group mentoring session created specifically for website designers and developers to bring their questions, roadblocks, ideas, and ?is it just me?? moments
You ever hear a new tech term and immediately feel? tired?
Like you?re supposed to be impressed, but something doesn?t quite add up?
Yeah. That?s how I felt the first time I heard ?vibe coding?.
Welcome to another episode of Websites Made Simple with me, Holly Christie!
In this episode, I?m talking about what vibe coding actually is, why it?s suddenly everywhere, and why I?m really not here for the idea that AI-generated websites are a shortcut to doing things properly.
I share what I?ve been seeing behind the scenes ? clients in a panic because AI-written code doesn?t work, websites that look fine on the surface but fall apart when you try to use them, and designers whose confidence gets knocked after someone else tears their work apart.
This isn?t an anti-AI rant. I use AI in my business. But I keep it on the periphery ? not at the heart of the products I hand over to clients. Because websites need to be robust, usable, and something people can actually manage once they?re live.
We?ll talk about where AI does make sense, why user journeys still need human thinking, and why vibe coding doesn?t replace experience, judgement, or good website practice.
If you?re a web designer wondering whether you should feel threatened ? or a business owner tempted to let AI ?just build the site? ? this episode is here to steady the nerves.
Come and find out more at websitesmadesimple.co.uk or email me at [email protected]
Skip to the good bits:00:00 What ?vibe coding? actually means
01:34 Why AI-built websites keep breaking
04:51 Where AI helps ? and where it doesn?t
07:56 Page builders, usability, and admin access
09:19 Client confidence and human-led design
10:00 Why you don?t need to feel threatened
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Join my Sparks Group Mentoring Programme
Link to episode
The Website Design Habits Making Users Hate Your Site
You ever land on a website and instantly feel? irritated?
Like something?s off, even if you can?t quite put your finger on it?
Yeah. Your users feel that too.
In this episode, I?m calling out the website design habits that quietly push people away ? the unnecessary animations, the chaotic menus, the inconsistent images, the confusing links, and all the things we think look clever but actually make visitors hate being on our sites.
And I?m not ranting for the sake of it. These choices cost you enquiries, sales, and trust.
We?ll talk through why these habits creep in, what they?re doing to your user experience, and the simple fixes that make your site feel cleaner, calmer, and more professional (without stripping out your creativity).
If you build websites for clients ? or you?re guilty of ?just adding one more animation? ? this one?s for you.
Come and find out more at websitesmadesimple.co.uk or email me at [email protected]
Skip to the good bits:00:00 "Over-Animating Websites: A Problem"
04:54 "Traditional Header Menus Matter"
08:36 "Clear Clickable Navigation Tips"
13:34 Create a Brand Kit Now
14:37 "Website Design and SEO Insights"
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Join the Phoenix Programme
Find out more about joining the Phoenix Programme
Link to episode
Coaching Failed You ? Here?s the Website Designer Mentoring That Won?t
If you?re a website designer or developer who?s invested in coaching and still feels stuck, this episode is for you.
I?ve been hearing from so many designers who say
?I tried coaching, I?m burned out, and my business still doesn?t feel sustainable.?
In this episode I?m breaking down the real reasons coaching often doesn?t work for website designers, and why mentoring can be a better fit when you need practical, industry specific support.
I talk about:
? the key difference between coaching and mentoring
? why ?you already have the answers? can feel infuriating when you?re in client chaos
? how industry specific advice helps with things like tricky feedback, scope creep and boundaries
? what it looks like to be supported while you level up without burning out
I?ll also share how I work with designers and developers inside my Phoenix programme and through one to one mentoring, so you can decide what kind of support is right for you.
? Want mentoring that actually understands the realities of running a web design business?
Come and find out more at websitesmadesimple.co.uk or email me at [email protected]
Happy designing!
Skip to the good bits:00:00 Coach vs. Mentor: Key Differences
06:04 "Mastering Best Practices Confidently"
08:50 Mentoring for Thriving Designers
10:40 "Connect for Design Insights"
Join my Phoenix Programme - https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/phoenix-programme
Mentioned in this episode:
Join my Sparks Group Mentoring Programme
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Link to episode
Website Designer Playbook: Less Chaos - More Cash
If your web design business feels like controlled chaos with too many projects and too few profits ? this episode is for you.
Welcome to another episode of Websites Made Simple with me, Holly Christie!
In this episode, I?m sharing how I raised my prices without scaring clients off, simplified my systems, and built a smoother, more sustainable design business.
You?ll also hear how I created a simple Website User Manual that completely changed my client handovers ? turning them into a premium experience and cutting out all those ?can you just?? support messages.
I talk about Lily Atwell-Rowan, who?s brilliant at helping creatives untangle their processes and onboard team members with ease, and Mike Fox, host of The Lone Wolf Unleashed Podcast, who?s doing clever things with AI to streamline systems and workflows.
And finally, I?ll walk you through how my Phoenix Programme mentoring track helps website designers scale with less chaos and more cash.
This is my playbook for any website designer who wants fewer headaches, higher rates, and a business that runs on your terms.
In this episode, you?ll learn:
How to tell when it?s time to level up your web design businessWhy pricing for value attracts better clientsHow a Website User Manual can save you hours of supportWhat I learned from Lily Atwell-Rowan and Mike Fox about smart systemsHow the Phoenix Program helps you scale with less chaos and more cashSkip to the good bits:
00:00 "Leveling Up in Web Design"
05:00 Web Design: Start and Improve
08:21 Streamline Website Maintenance Efforts
10:58 Website Maintenance and SEO Guide
13:53 Shared Values in White Labeling
20:22 Streamlining Projects and Systems
21:29 Scaling Strategies: Pricing & Processes
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Join my Sparks Group Mentoring Programme
Link to episode
One-Star Review For Your Website Design Business? Great News! Here's Why...
A client threatened to ?ruin my reputation? unless I refunded a non-refundable deposit.
Then came the one-star Google review and the plot twist that made my reputation stronger.
Welcome to another episode of Websites Made Simple with me, Holly Christie!
In this episode I share the whole story, how I responded, and what to put in place so one angry client can?t tank your business.
If you?re a website designer or dev who?s ever ignored red flags (yep, me too), this one?s for you.
Skip to the good bits:00:00 "Client Conflicts and Resilience"
06:15 "One-Star Reviews Often Misleading"
09:00 "Responding to a 1-Star Review"
11:39 "Phoenix Program: Transform Your Career"
When a client threatens to ruin your reputation, here?s the exact playbook to protect your brand and flip the narrative?fast.
For web designers/developers dealing with scope creep, 1-star bombs, and refund pressure.
Handle non-refundable deposits without panic
What to write under a 1-star review
Turn a bad review into social proof on LinkedIn
Red flags: endless meetings, too many stakeholders
Boundaries in contracts & terms that actually hold
Chapters:
00:00 When a client threatens your reputation (nightmare setup)
02:00 ?Go-away pricing?, red flags & endless meetings
05:00 Stalemate, terms, and the non-refundable deposit
06:15 The threat + the 1-star review hits
08:18 Posting it on LinkedIn?community flips the script
10:00 Why it strengthened my reputation
12:00 Lessons: boundaries, meetings, and saying no
13:00 Phoenix Programme can help with this
My site: https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk
Phoenix Programme: https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/phoenix-programme
Podcast page: https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/podcast
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Link to episode
How to handle those 'pain in the arse' website clients
Let's talk about the challenges that every website designer and developer has faced at one time or another: those ?pain in the arse? clients who constantly try to override your creative process, push for shortcuts, or ignore the boundaries you?ve set.
Welcome to another episode of Websites Made Simple with me, Holly Christie!
I?m getting honest about what it feels like when a project just isn?t sitting right?when your heart drops at another problematic email and you start questioning your own approach, especially as everyone else seems to be breezing through perfect testimonials and happy launches.
I?ll share my practical strategies for protecting your boundaries, saying a firm ?no? to unethical requests (like copying someone else?s design), and managing difficult clients who want you to queue-jump or abandon your process.
You?ll hear some real stories from my own experience, including how to handle disagreements over design decisions, document your advice, and know when it?s time to offboard a client altogether.
If you?ve ever lost sleep over a challenging project or wondered how to keep your business running smoothly without sacrificing your sanity, this episode is especially for you.
Listen in and let?s talk about how to thrive as a web designer, even when you?re dealing with the trickiest clients.
Skip to the good bits:00:00 Dealing with Overbearing Clients
04:36 Client Feedback During Design Process
07:23 Client Boundaries and Collaboration
10:15 "Importance of Client Communication"
13:40 Avoid Problem Clients' Retainers
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Link to episode
Ready to transform your career as a web designer or developer?
In this episode, I'm excited to introduce you to something very different. Something that if you're a website designer or developer, is going to help to transform all your results.
Have a listen, and if you're interested, visit https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/ and click the menu item "Phoenix Programme" for more details and to book your free introductory call.
Link to episode
Template shops that actually sell
Welcome to another episode of Websites Made Simple with me, Holly Christie!
With nearly two decades of experience in website design, I'm explaining the pros and cons of template shops; those ready-made website solutions that so many of us create, yet often struggle to actually sell.
In this episode, I'll talk you through what it really takes to build a thriving template side business.
From choosing the right client experience and support systems, to setting boundaries on content and pricing, I'll share the strategies that have made my own template shop, Simply Sites, a success.
Whether you're considering launching your own template shop or looking to improve what you already have, today?s conversation is packed with practical tips, personal insights, and actionable advice to help you avoid common pitfalls and create templates that truly sell.
Click play and let?s get started!
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Link to episode
Stop Hiding! Why Faceless Website Design Websites Don?t Win Clients
Are you losing clients before they even hit 'contact'?
Welcome to another episode of Websites Made Simple! I?m Holly Christie and in this episode, I'm revealing why faceless websites kill trust ? and how showing up, sharing your values, and being transparent with pricing makes clients choose you.
? Plus: the simple UX shifts that turn browsers into buyers.
Click play and let?s get started!
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Link to episode
Should you list your bespoke website design prices?
Welcome to another episode of Websites Made Simple! I?m Holly Christie, and today I?m exploring a question I get asked all the time by fellow web designers and developers: should you put your pricing on your website, even if every project you do is completely bespoke?
In this episode, I?m sharing my thoughts on this contentious topic.
I?ll walk you through how I've addressed issues like this to build a successful business.
If you?re wondering how to confidently showcase your pricing online in a way that feels right for you and your business, you?re in the right place.
Click play and let?s get started!
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Link to episode
Where to begin as a brand new web designer
Embarking on a journey as a new web designer necessitates a judicious approach, particularly regarding pricing strategies. It is imperative to refrain from undercutting one's prices, as doing so compromises the perceived value of your services and undermines the professional standard within the industry. Rather, I advocate for establishing a solid foundation by specializing in brochure-led websites for service-oriented businesses, which offers an opportunity to hone essential skills without overwhelming complexity. Furthermore, nurturing strong relationships with clients is paramount; this engenders trust and facilitates collaboration, ultimately enriching the design process. As we explore the initial steps in this episode, we provide guidance on aligning your offerings with your expertise while emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and investment in your professional development.
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Link to episode
How to get more clients for your website design business
Welcome to another episode of Websites Made Simple, the podcast designed for website designers and developers who want to build thriving businesses without losing their sanity.
I?m Holly Christie, website designer, mentor, and straight-talking website design advocate, and today we?re tackling one of the most common challenges in the web design world: how to attract more clients... especially those perfect-fit, dream clients who really get your vibe.
In this episode, I?ll guide you through practical, actionable strategies for filling your client list with people who love what you do.
Whether you?re just starting out or looking to uplevel your web design business, this episode is packed with advice to help you stand out, stay true to yourself, and attract a steady stream of clients who value your unique skills.
Timestamped summary00:00 Authentic Branding Through Personal Design
06:08 Website Messaging for Sales Success
07:12 Social Media Messaging Consistency Guide
11:22 "Building Trust Through Expertise"
14:50 Display Prices on Your Website
18:13 "Focus and Clarify Your Offers"
20:37 Collaborate to Avoid Scope Creep
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Link to episode
You Give Web Design a Bad Name: 5 Industry Practices I'm Sick of Hiding
Ready to vent with me? I?m Holly Christie, website designer, mentor, and straight-talking website design advocate. This week I?m torch-lighting the five shady moves that keep giving our craft a black eye. In 20 punch-packed minutes you?ll hear me:
Call out those 'custom' builds that are nothing more than slapped-on Elementor templates Drag the timeline-promise-breakers who ghost after pocketing the deposit Expose the radio-silence communicators and teach you how to lock them down with a rock-solid client contract Rant about the 'pretty-over-perform' crowd who ignore tech, security, and UX fundamentals Swat the copy-paste lurkers hijacking your LinkedIn posts for clout.Plus one bonus AI-built-site myth-buster you can?t missBy the end, you?ll have a clearer playbook for protecting your reputation and your clients? results. No sleaze required. Grab your earbuds, hit play, then snag my Website Designer Contract Pack to keep every project (and payment) on track.
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Link to episode
Stop using Elementor for building websites! Here's why.
Welcome to another episode of Websites Made Simple with me, Holly Christie.
I'm a web designer, founder, and mentor dedicated to empowering website professionals in their careers.
In this episode, I'm risking some backlash. And it's a topic that?s sure to get a lot of my peers riled up.
Drawing from years of experience with one specific tool, I'm explaining why Elementor needs to get in the bin, why its initial appeal sucks people in, and the frustrations I've faced with its licensing, code quality, frequent updates, and compatibility issues.
I said what I said.
And now you can hear it.
Links referenced in this episode:
linkedin.com/in/hollycchristiewebsitesmadesimple.co.ukCompanies mentioned in this episode:
Crocoblocks Elementor Divi NeveTimestamped summary
00:00 "Boost Your Design: Ditch Elementor"
06:34 "Client Needs and Software Flexibility"
08:32 Elementor Updates: Challenges and Limitations
11:06 Elementor Usage Insights on LinkedIn
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Link to episode
How to handle client scope creep in your website design business!
The phenomenon of scope creep is a pervasive challenge that besets web developers, often arising from the desire to appease clients. I share my strategies for mitigating this issue, ensuring that projects remain true to their original parameters. It's imperative to establish clear boundaries at the onset of any project, thereby preventing the gradual expansion of client demands that can lead to disarray.
You'll need effective communication and structured processes, which not only safeguard the integrity of the project but also foster a positive relationship with clients.
By adopting these practices, we can maintain both the quality of our work and the satisfaction of our clients, ultimately leading to a more successful and enjoyable web design career.
Listen to hear my advice on how to handle client scope creep in your website design business.
Links referenced in this episode:
websitesmadesimple.co.ukCompanies mentioned in this episode:
Websites Made Simple Wix SquarespaceMentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Websites Made Simple Courses
Check out our Websites Made Simple courses!
Link to episode
What's the REAL cost of FREE website tools?
Welcome to ?Websites Made Simple.? I?m Holly Christie; website designer, mentor, and the host of this podcast.
In this episode I?m pulling back the curtain on the real cost of free website tools.
I?ll be sharing my personal insights and experiences, helping you figure out when those tempting free tools are actually a smart move - and when they?re more trouble than they?re worth.
As someone who loves WordPress and has tried just about every option out there, I?ll explain why some free platforms are industry favourites, and why investing in premium themes and plugins could actually save you a ton of time and help your business grow.
I?ll also walk you through the practical side: how to budget for tools, price your projects right, and invest in what really matters for your workflow and your clients.
Whether you?re starting out or looking to take your web design business to the next level, I?m here to give you honest, actionable advice from inside the industry.
Timestamped summary00:00 Free Websites Can't Generate Income
05:55 Yearly Learning vs. Tools Limitations
07:06 Invest in Premium Web Tools
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Websites Made Simple Courses
Check out our Websites Made Simple courses!
Link to episode
What you need in your website design contracts!
Welcome to another episode of Websites Made Simple!
I?m Holly Christie, your host, and I?m thrilled to have you here. As someone who?s been in the website design game for over a decade, I know how tricky?and sometimes overwhelming?the world of web design can be, especially when it comes to protecting yourself with the right contracts.
In this episode, I?m explaining what you absolutely need to include in your website design contracts.
I share the essentials from my own real-world experience: how to create agreements that keep both you and your clients accountable, why you need detailed terms of service alongside your contract, and the must-have clauses to avoid headaches like scope creep, project delays, or ghosting clients.
I?ll walk you through practical strategies for outlining timelines, handling changes, protecting your intellectual property, and making sure your liabilities are clear?plus, I?ll offer friendly tips on navigating cancellations and abandoned projects.
Whether you?re brand new to contracts or looking to shore up your existing ones, this episode will give you the tools and confidence you need to run your web design business smoothly.
So, let?s get started and make sure you?and your clients?are always on the same page!
Timestamped summary00:00 Essential Website Design Contract Elements
05:29 "Showcase Client Testimonials"
08:18 Website Build: Quote and Timeline Management
12:42 Project Cancellation and Abandonment Guidelines
15:21 Web Design Project Terms & Conditions
18:28 Send Terms Before Project Start
Mentioned in this episode:
Websites Made Simple Courses
Check out our Websites Made Simple courses!
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Link to episode
How to get unstuck in your website design business
Stuck staring at a half-finished client homepage, and wondering why your carefully planned timeline has melted?
Hi, I'm Holly Christie, and in this straight-talking session, I'm sharing website design business tips for small-business owners who keep hitting the same wall.
You?ll learn the simple test that reveals whether your block is a process gap or a mindset trap, along with workflow and productivity hacks for web developers that restore momentum in minutes.
Quick win you can try today: set a 15-minute timer, tackle the easiest unfinished task on your current build and watch how fast clarity returns. Ready for more? Hit play and get the practical moves that will unstick your web-design projects?starting now.
Links referenced in this episode:
websitesmadesimple.co.ukthisdemandinglife.comMentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Websites Made Simple Courses
Check out our Websites Made Simple courses!
Turn Negative Feedback Into a Winning Website
Link to episode
Do this to ensure effective SEO for website rebuilds
Have you been tasked with rebuilding a website? Is the idea of destroying the SEO filling you with dread? This is the episode for you.
The Essential Guide to Maintaining SEO When Rebuilding WebsitesWebsite rebuilding necessitates a meticulous approach, particularly with respect to SEO (Search Engine Optimisation).
There are a heap of challenges you'll stumble across when transitioning from an old website to a new one, especially concerning the existing URLs that search engines have already indexed.
I always emphasise the critical importance of not discarding the old website prematurely; rather, there are effective techniques I use to construct the new site and safeguard SEO integrity. I'll share them all with you in this episode.
Links referenced in this episode:
courses.thisdemandinglife.comscreamingfrog.comwebsitesmadesimple.co.ukTools mentioned in this episode:
Screaming Frog Elementor (sorry, not sorry)Mentioned in this episode:
Websites Made Simple Courses
Check out our Websites Made Simple courses!
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Link to episode
6 best practices you need for a successful website design business
Welcome to another episode of "Websites Made Simple." I?m Holly Christie, your host, and in today?s episode, I?m sharing what best practices in website design truly mean based on my own journey as a website designer and mentor.
The Ultimate Guide to Website Design Best PracticesOver the years, I?ve learned that creating stunning websites is just one piece of the puzzle?discovering higher standards and focusing on accessibility are what really boosted my confidence and helped my clients trust me, too.
I?ll walk you through some of my go-to strategies, starting with simple accessibility wins, like choosing the right font sizes and making sure every website is easy for everyone to use.
I?ll talk about how to structure content for good SEO, the benefits of using quality tools over just the cheapest options, and why keeping your websites lightweight and mobile-friendly matters more than ever.
And, because I know how overwhelming client projects can get, I?ll share some hard-won advice on setting boundaries and keeping communication clear, so everyone enjoys the process from start to finish.
Whether you?re new to web design or looking to fall back in love with your business, this episode is full of insights you can start using right away. Let?s make your design business not only better?but more enjoyable, too.
Links referenced in this episode:
courses.thisdemandinglife.comwebsitesmadesimple.co.ukCompanies mentioned in this episode:
Reddit LinkedIn Yoast Divi Elementor AvadaMentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Websites Made Simple Courses
Check out our Websites Made Simple courses!
Link to episode
How to create your dream website design business!
How can you create an ideal website design business that not only aligns with your aspirations but also alleviates the stress often associated with running such an operation? That's what this episode is about.
Welcome to Websites Made Simple. I'm your host, Holly Christie.
Scroll for the link to my courses as mentioned in the episode
This episode, we're examining the critical aspects of client management, emphasizing the importance of identifying and avoiding challenging clients who may impede our progress.
We'll talk about those people who ghost us, or push the limits and boundaries, ultimately leading to scope creep.
We'll also talk about a practical way to avoid those customers who are lacking clarity in their preferences or those prone to shifting demands without consideration of process or costs.
We'll also explore strategies for fostering a collaborative relationship with clients who respect the design process, thereby enhancing both our creative output and professional satisfaction.
Click play now, and enjoy the episode which serves as a comprehensive guide to navigating the complexities of client interactions while building a fulfilling and sustainable website design practice.
Links referenced in this episode:
courses.thisdemandinglife.comthisdemandinglife.comwebsitesmadesimple.co.uk00:00 Web Design Autonomy
04:02 Managing Indecisive Design Clients
07:12 Managing Website Features & Expectations
12:21 Website Builder Challenges and Best Practices
16:16 Attracting Ideal Web Design Clients
18:54 Personalised Web Design Collaboration
21:19 Enhancing Client Relationships
Mentioned in this episode:
Turn Negative Feedback Into a Winning Website
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Websites Made Simple Courses
Check out our Websites Made Simple courses!
Link to episode
9 essential tools for your website design business (some are free!)
In this episode, we're going to talk all about those must have website design tools.
Welcome to Websites Made Simple. I'm your host, Holly Christie.
Scroll for the link to my courses as mentioned in the episode
There are some crucial tools that every website designer should have to efficiently run their business.
As a seasoned website designer and mentor, I wanted to share with you some of the more essential platforms and software that not only streamline processes but also enhance client relationships.
Some of these are free.
From file-sharing solutions to design apps and project management, I'm covering it all.
Whether you're a novice or an experienced designer, I'm hoping this episode will help you elevate your website design business by simplifying the administrative and creative elements of website creation.
Next steps to take with meMy courses - courses.thisdemandinglife.comMy LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/hollycchristie/Tools mentioned in this episode:
wetransfer.comcanva.comtrello.comvimeo.comtidycal.comzoom.usfreeagent.comgocardless.comstripe.comscreamingfrog.co.ukthisdemandinglife.comlinkedin.com/in/hollychristieMentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Websites Made Simple Courses
Check out our Websites Made Simple courses!
Link to episode
How to work with tricky website clients
In this episode of Websites Made Simple, I'm talking you through the complexities of dealing with challenging website clients.
Pro Tips for Secure and Successful Web Design Projects with Difficult ClientsHi, I'm Holly Christie, a seasoned website designer with extensive experience, and it's my mission to share my insights with you.
Over the course of 20 minutes in this episode of the podcast, I'm offering my advice on dealing with clients who may become difficult during the web design process.
I've witnessed some common client behaviours such as frequent requests for changes, project delays, and scope creep, and I'll offer practical solutions for setting boundaries and maintaining a positive working relationship.
I'm also explaining why you might want to get access to one of my valuable resources (linked below) which will help you solve a lot of these problems almost immediately.
Check out my courses for Website Professionals:
courses.thisdemandinglife.comMentioned in this episode:
Turn Negative Feedback Into a Winning Website
Websites Made Simple Courses
Check out our Websites Made Simple courses!
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Link to episode
How to make sales through your website call to action buttons
In today's episode, I'm focusing on the crucial aspect of leveraging your website?s call to action (CTA) button to increase sales.
Welcome to Websites Made Simple. I'm your host, Holly Christie.
Scroll for the link to my SEO course as mentioned in the episode
Whether you're a designer or small business owner, this episode is packed with insights on how a well-crafted CTA can guide visitors on your website and help turn interest into engagement and sales.
I'll explain the importance of CTAs, explaining how they can transform a beautifully designed site into a powerful sales tool.
I'm also sharing my personal strategies and experiences in using CTAs effectively.
Did you know, there's a balance to be struck between having too few and too many CTAs?...
Timestamped summary00:00 Email Lists: Engage Beyond Websites
05:42 Streamlined Client Engagement Strategy
10:19 Newsletter Engagement Strategies
11:21 Boost Sales with Simple Website Tweaks
Next steps to take with meMy courses - courses.thisdemandinglife.comMy LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/hollycchristie/Mentioned in this episode:
Websites Made Simple Courses
Check out our Websites Made Simple courses!
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Link to episode
Are you thinking of quitting your website design business?
Running a website design business can be super challenging, especially during tough market conditions. Time to talk about how we can overcome imposter syndrome and fill knowledge gaps, particularly in the wake of recent global changes.
Welcome to another episode of Websites Made Simple. I'm your host, Holly Christie.
Scroll for the link to my SEO course as mentioned in the episode
As a passionate advocate for small businesses, I wanted to offer some practical advice on identifying ideal clients, refining your messaging, and effectively building a marketing strategy that includes your website, social media, and email list.
If you're on the verge of quitting your website design business, this episode is packed with valuable strategies to keep you motivated and help you attract the right clients, ensuring your career as a website designer is both satisfying and successful.
Whether you're just starting out or looking to reignite your passion, I want you to know I'm providing all the support and guidance you need to stay in the game.
Listen to discover how to leverage your unique skills and expertise in the competitive website design industry.
Timestamped summary00:00 Reviving Your Website Design Career
04:13 Attracting Ideal Clients Online
08:03 Storytelling Websites for Services
10:23 Targeting Micro Business Owners Online
15:31 Focus on Resourceful Design Confidence
18:58 Website Design Messaging Strategy
22:28 Collaborative Networking in Web Design
The link to my course and main website offerings:
courses.thisdemandinglife.comCompanies mentioned in this episode:
LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Wix WordPress thisdemandinglife.com TidyCal Simply SitesMentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Websites Made Simple Courses
Check out our Websites Made Simple courses!
Link to episode
Nail the website design workflow and land new business!
In this episode of Websites Made Simple, "Nail the website design workflow and land new business" I'm talking you through the critical importance of streamlined processes for website development and effective client communication.
Discover practical strategies to structure your workdays, set clear boundaries, and manage client expectations to avoid common pitfalls like 'ghosting'.
We?ll discuss why having robust guidelines for your clients, including collecting essential content upfront, is crucial for success.
Whether you?re a website designer just starting or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with actionable tips to refine your workflow and elevate your web design business.
Learn how organisation and strong communication can enhance client satisfaction, save time, and set your projects up for success.
Want to optimise your website development process and take your web design business to the next level? Best click play then!
00:00 Website Designer Communication Issues
06:09 Copywriting Alternatives and Solutions
07:15 Website Design & SEO Course described
10:18 Website Design Setup Essentials
15:39 Effective Website Building Boundaries
17:44 "Collaborative Web Design Success"
Companies mentioned in this episode:
Squarespace Shopify WordPress Wix WeTransferLinks referenced in this episode:
courses.thisdemandinglife.comwetransfer.comMentioned in this episode:
Websites Made Simple Courses
Check out our Websites Made Simple courses!
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Link to episode
Introducing "Websites Made Simple"
Welcome to the very first episode of "Websites Made Simple"! I'm your host, Holly Christie.
If you followed my previous podcast, "Your Business Online Your Way," you'll know this tagline from my website, This Demanding Life.
After a long break, I am excited to be back, with a refreshed outlook and newfound motivation, thanks to some great advice I received over the summer.
In this introductory episode, I'll share my story of last year and explain why I decided to switch directions.
This podcast is now all about aiding fellow website developers with valuable insights and practical advice. Whether it's enhancing your marketing skills, avoiding common pitfalls, or learning industry best practices, I?ve got you covered.
Expect bite-sized, impactful episodes every couple of weeks that are designed to fit into your busy schedule.
You can find out more about me and access my resources at thisdemandinglife.com and courses.thisdemandinglife.com.
I'm here to help you thrive in your website development business, enabling you to do work you love and earn what you deserve.
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Link to episode
Turn your business website into a valued sales team member!
If you haven't had high expectations from your website, today is the day we change that.
Your website is not a shopfront, but a vital member of the sales team for your small business.
In today's episode I walk you through the different components which are needed to have your website climb the ranks of Google and win your ideal clients' favour.
Are you ready to turn your website into a lead generating, sales making machine?
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
Link to episode
Got your customer journey figured out on your website?
Every customer you have will be on a specific part of their journey in their business or career. It's your job to meet them at that point and to help them, through your products or services, to get to the next stage of where they're at.
It's not about getting people from A - Z, it's about getting them from A - B (or B - C, or even M - N, depending on where they're at).
In this co-hosted episode with Amy Newlands, we talk about what they journey looks like for both, you and your customers. How to work out the stage you need to meet them at, and how to turn that meeting into successful outcomes for you both.
Ready? Let's get started.
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
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Want Your Business To Make More Money While You Work Less? Here's How!
I hear you. It can be hard to fully realise the potential in your small business, especially when you don't want to spend every waking hour and every penny you've got, on it. If you've been in business for a while, you've probably realised that this model leads to burnout.
There are still loads of ways that you can realise the potential of your business without having to spend more time and money getting there.
In today's episode I talk about passive income - ten different opportunities you can implement in your business, starting right now. Including options you may not have thought of.
Are you ready to start making more money and more opportunities in your business?
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
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Making changes in your small business - when should we do it?
Are you thinking of the next steps for your business?
Or whether it?s time to do things in a slightly different way?
It could be that you?ve become bored with your current setup. Or you don?t feel you?re charging what you?re worth. Maybe you?re lonely and are missing the camaraderie of working with others.
Whatever has brought you to this episode, it?s great to see you here!
Levelling up is something we should all do, and regularly in our small businesses. It?s easy to say we need to do it but knowing what to do and how to do it is something else entirely.
In this episode I walk you through the framework from realising it?s time to make some changes, to how to implement them so you?re confident and ready to level up your business.
Are you ready to get started?
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
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Leveraging Creativity In Your Business Niche
Neither did Jo, who loved being creative in her VA and marketing roles, but there wasn't a job title out there which encompassed what she could do to support small businesses in her own, unique way.
These days Jo describes herself as a creative partner for solo and entrepreneurs. Helping them to nail their lead magnets, funnels, blog posts, social posts and so much more. You need help with it? If it's creative, Jo can do it.
In this guest interview Jo talks us through her journey as a solopraneur supporting small businesses. How to stay in your lane, and do what you're good at. And why there's no such thing as a bad lead magnet.
Are you ready to lean into your creativity?
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How to show up in your business (even when you don't feel like it)
Are you struggling to show up in your business?
You're feeling the pressure but you just can't seem to get there.
You're definitely not alone. Being a business owner means having to show up in your business, in ways you never thought of before. All of a sudden you're very public and very visible. You have to put work into your marketing strategy as well as wearing all the hats of the different roles. Sometimes things get in the way and you drop the ball. The longer the ball is dropped, the harder it is to get back on it.
In this episode I walk you through how to show up in your business, even when you really don't feel like it.
Are you ready to get back on it?
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
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Podcasts make website more dynamic! Here's how to get started.
Are you thinking of starting a podcast?
There's loads of information out there and you're not sure where to start?I hear you! I felt like that when I started my own podcast. It felt like there was so much I needed to know about format and software and equipment and hosting. All of sudden, something that was meant to be a joyful next step for my business started feeling like a stressful one.
I'm lucky in that I had a brilliant guide (my sister, an experienced podcaster) to help me along the way. Now, 7 months into my own podcasting journey, I'm here to help you with everything you need to know if you're thinking of creating a podcast of your own.
Are you ready to learn more about podcasting?
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
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Switching off to be more productive & have more fun
Does life as an entrepreneur not seem as fun as you thought it would be?
If either of these apply to you then you're definitely not alone. We often think that the life of an entrepreneur is a joyful one - full of working your own hours, being your own boss and being able to do things at your leisure.
The reality is very different, but it doesn't have to be!
In this episode accountability viking, Ben Catley-Richardson talks us through the habits we need to master as small business owners. How to create good habits and why switching off is not just important, but actually leads us to being better at what we do.
Are you ready to find more joy in your business?
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
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That 6 figure business is a lie. Here's the truth.
How do you feel when you see people claiming to make 6 & 7 figures online?
Does it motivate you to be like them or does it leave you feeling a little bit less than?
What if we told you that the 6 & 7 figure claims are just a tactic in an unregulated industry and what you?re being sold is a story rather than a reality?
Does it still appeal to you now?
In this co-hosted episode Holly and Amy break down the different marketing tactics used when making 6 & 7 figure claims. Why people are claiming it and what it?s doing to the end user.
We break down how to spot when someone?s claims don?t quite measure up and what kind of coach you should be working with to help you discover your voice; not someone else?s.
Are you ready to get a whole lot wiser to shoddy sales tactics and to learn who?s a good fit for you and who you?re best avoiding?
Let?s get started?.
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
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Be intentionally you - how to master your marketing with Gus Bhandal
Marketing doesn't really work like that. As the old adage says: 'people buy from people' and being intentionally you has everything to do with it.
In this episode I interview marketing guru, Gus Bhandal. With 20 + years of marketing experience in his repertoire Gus and I talk about the transition from print to digital marketing. How to merge the two, and how to choose the best Social Media platforms to suit your business and your audience.
We also look at branding and how to really get your brand noticed, as well as delivering what people expect when you meet them in person. What language to include and when it's best to keep those sweary comments to yourself.
Are you ready to improve your marketing and get noticed by your ideal clients?
You can find Gus at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mguruuk/
and his website: https://www.themguru.co.uk/
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
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Stop yourself from self-sabotaging!
Do you find that you only ever get so far in your business?
That, no matter how successful you are, it?s always a little less success than you hoped for?
Wanting to always be that little bit further along than you currently are?
Most of us self-sabotage without even realising it. We have hopes and dreams for our businesses and they often stay just that? dreams. It can be demoralising not ever being able to pin point what?s really going wrong and how to turn it about.
In this co-hosted episode with me and Amy Newlands, my business bestie, we take a deep dive to recognise the signs that we?re self sabotaging, why we do it (anyone interested in psychology is going to love this one) and how to stop it. We draw on personal experience and years of working with other, independent businesses.
Are you looking to be more successful in your business?
It?s time to recognise then ditch the behaviours that are keeping you stuck.
Mentioned in this episode:
Remember to sign up for our blogging masterclass!
Go to https://websitesmadesimple.co.uk/masterclass
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