Impressions matter in any industry, and especially in the crowded and fastidious financial technology (fintech) space. There was a time when independent fintech consultants could get away with just having a LinkedIn profile to establish an online presence. But things have changed.
Every year, millions of people around the world enter the world of independent consulting. This is especially true in the age of the Great Resignation as professionals seek more freedom and flexibility in their careers. Having a website will help you stand out from the crowd, demonstrate your expertise, and raise your perceived value as well as your compensation.
I know it can be unnerving to market oneself as an independent consultant. After all, you’re not a company, right? Actually, you are. You are your own unique brand. But without a website, you run the risk of being seen as short-term, insincere or non-committal. In the fintech space, companies choose tend to choose consultants they can rely on for the long haul.
Where do you start?
The first rule is to keep it simple. Don’t let the little things hold you up or get ahead of yourself by worrying about social media, search engine optimization (SEO), or even a logo right now. Websites are not static; you can always go back later and update it with a new logo, color schemes, and meta tags. But at a minimum, make sure you have a domain name and a professional headshot since you are the face of your brand.
Start with a one-page website with a clear message, images, and a unique value proposition that resonates with your audience. Explain succinctly what sets you apart from others and what types of organizations rely on your services. Here is a simple template to get you started on your key messages and content.
But isn’t WordPress complicated?
It certainly can be. But you don’t need WordPress to create a beautiful, mobile responsive website. In fact, I only recommend WordPress for companies who absolutely insist on it and only if they have the technical resources and require frequent, complex enhancements. There are plenty of other proven website platforms that do just as good a job and are simpler to use.
How much should you spend?
That’s up to you. Like any marketing program, you have to weigh the pros and cons of spending your time versus spending a little money.
If you have the time and capability to do your own website using an intuitive WYSIWYG tool, then consider one of the many DIY platforms out there. Doing it yourself could take anywhere from two to eight hours to complete a simple website of up to three pages, and cost you just a small monthly hosting fee. For only $18 per month, you can have access to a top platform where you can create an unlimited number of pages including a blog.
But if you’re too busy and would rather have someone else handle the initial design and perhaps the content as well, then go ahead and outsource the work. If you’re leaning more towards outsourcing, make sure you choose someone who:
- Understands your audience and industry
- Can do it all – design, development and writing, if needed
- Uses a reliable creation and hosting platform that you can access
- Offers a reasonably priced plan for ongoing maintenance and updates
- Provides you with easy access to your website analytics
Our completely done-for-you websites start at just $699.*
What happens after go-live?
Websites are not a “one and done” project; they are a living, breathing entity that must evolve and be monitored regularly. Nothing is worse than visiting your own site and seeing broken links, missing images, and slow speed.
Having a team to ensure your website is operating properly and up to date at all times with the latest software versions, plug-ins, and other behind-the-scenes plumbing provides insurance and incredible peace of mind. And it does not have to break the bank.
Also, once your website is close to going live, make sure you take care of a few other basics:
- Set up a business email address (ditch the gmail or yahoo address!)
- Get new business cards with your new website and business email address
- Update your social profiles with your new website URL
What are you waiting for?
Websites need not be expensive to create, host and maintain. We offer several options that include tools, design services, and content exclusively or combined – and without the super high-ticket price or long, drawn-out development projects.
A beautifully designed yet simple website that communicates your unique capabilities can help you build credibility, demonstrate authority, and prove you’re invested in delivering value to your industry.
Need help deciding on the best option for you? Request a customized proposal today!
* Includes domain, design, copy, SEO, and unlimited changes up to 3 pages; monthly hosting & maintenance is additional.
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