5 min read

The most common web design mistakes businesses make (and how to avoid them in 2025)

Let’s be real: building a website is a lot like hosting a party. You want everyone to feel welcome, enjoy themselves, and maybe even stick around far longer than they planned. Result: memorable! Unfortunately, most websites feel more like that average party everybody wants to leave early from. So, let’s break down some classic “party fouls” of web design and follow it up with a clear guide to making your website the star attraction in 2025.

Part 1: Common mistakes that make your website that awkward party

1. Slow loading times —The long queue outside the club

What’s happening: If your website takes more than 3 seconds to load, you’ve already lost a large portion of your visitors.

2. Confusing navigation = The “Where’s the loo?” moment

What’s happening: Visitors can’t find what they need. If navigating your site feels like playing hide-and-seek, they’ll leave in search of some place that does give them what they need.

3. Outdated design = The ’80s party no one was prepared for

What’s happening: You’re stuck with an ancient aesthetic—complete with drop shadows and cringe-worthy stock photos. Users want sleek, modern designs that reflect today, not 2008.

4. No clear call to action (CTA) = The dance floor without a DJ

What’s happening: Visitors don’t know what to do next. If you don’t invite them to take action, they’ll eventually get bored and probably leave.

5. Walls of text = The never-ending speech

What’s happening: Overwhelming your users with blocks of text is like giving them a speech when all they want is quick, clear information. No one’s got time for that.

 

Part 2: A fresh approach to building a website that’s more than just a website

We’re not just ticking boxes here—we aim to rethink what a website can be and how to build something that truly resonates with your audience. Additionally, by taking the following approach, you naturally tend to avoid mistakes mentioned in Part 1 as well.

Let’s get into it:

1. The end goal = What’s the real purpose?

Why it matters: Before jumping into colour schemes, buttons, or animations, you need to answer this: What’s the purpose of this website? Is it to inspire, engage, or build a sense of belonging? Every decision you make—design, structure, and content—should heavily lean in toward that goal. The good news is that by focusing on this first and foremost, you naturally tackle dated issues like slow loading times, poor navigation, and irrelevant content.

Our take: It’s not just about making something look good—it’s about creating a site that puts your audience first in a meaningful way, making them feel seen.

2. Simplicity = Cut out the noise

Why it matters: In today’s overwhelming digital world, simplicity is your best friend. People don’t visit your site to be dazzled with endless options—they want clarity and ease. If they can’t quickly get what they came for, they’ll leave. 

Our approach: We remove the clutter so your message is front and centre. Simple, however, doesn’t have to mean boring. It means guiding users effortlessly to where they need to be, much like a great host showing you around a party. By cutting the excess, we reduce friction, giving visitors a smooth and enjoyable experience.

3. Connection over conversion = Building something lasting

Why it matters: Simplicity makes the user experience easy and clear, but what truly makes a website stand out is the sense of connection it builds with its visitors. Yes, conversions matter, but a website that creates genuine connections will always drive more meaningful engagement—and ultimately, better results. 

Our perspective: We design with empathy. Your website shouldn’t just be a lead generator—it should be a place where your audience feels understood. When users feel connected to your brand, conversions happen naturally. It’s about creating a space where stories are shared, values align, and relationships are nurtured for the long term. This could include inviting them to visit again, offering gifts or premium content for an email address—simple touches to drive return visitors and foster community.

3. Uniqueness = Ditch the templates

Why it matters: In a world full of cookie-cutter templates, it takes something special to stand out. Your brand is unique—why shouldn’t your website be? 

Our approach: We build websites from the ground up, with your brand’s personality and goals at the core. It’s not just about ticking design boxes—it’s about creating a digital space that’s distinctly you, without that “all too familiar” vibe many existing websites give off… Same same but different. Not a great look.

Conclusion: Build a website that matters—today and tomorrow

Web design is more than just following best practices. It’s about finding the heart of your brand, understanding your audience, and crafting a digital experience that feels like a genuine reflection of both. When you focus on simplicity, connection, and designing for the future, you end up with a website that’s not just functional but truly engaging—and one that drives real results.

Curious about what the future of web design holds? Stay tuned for our next article, where we dive into bold predictions and exciting possibilities for the next decade of digital experiences.

Hi! Maxine here—I hope this article has sparked some new ideas or helped you see what’s possible in the evolving digital landscape. The future is all about embracing what’s next, and I’d love to explore it with you. 

If you’re interested in creating a website that’s more than just functional—but truly future-driven and impactful—let’s work together. 

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