Your website can either fuel your success, or send potential customers running.

We all know attention spans are nearly nonexistent these days, and your website is often the first impression people get of your brand.

If someone lands on your site, even for a second, you have to make it count.

After 15 years as a startup designer, I’ve seen the same mistakes over and over (and yes, I’ve been guilty of making them myself 😉).

These are 5 of the most common website killers you’ll want to avoid.

1. No clear value proposition

If visitors don’t instantly understand what you do and why it matters to them, say goodbye.

Your message should be crisp, specific, and customer-focused.

Skip the fluff. Make sure your headlines are clear, not clever. Speaking of clarity…

2. Being too cute or clever

Clarity converts customers.

Fancy wording and clever slogans don’t impress anybody, they confuse. And confused visitors don’t convert.

A great startup website is like an elevator pitch: quick, sharp, and to the point.

3. Weak, vague, or excessive CTAs

If people have to guess their next step, they won’t take one.

Stick to one clear primary call-to-action per page and make it obvious.

Secondary CTAs are fine when used properly, but should complement rather than compete with the main action.

4. Prioritizing aesthetics over function

Pretty does not pay the bills.

Great design is not just about looking good. It is about guiding users towards a specific action.

Every visual element should have a purpose and support usability and conversions.

5. Treating your website as "set and forget"

Your website is not a digital business card. It is a living, breathing asset that needs constant iteration.

Continue tweaking, testing, and improving as you learn about your audience and expand your offerings.

A startup’s website should be clear, concise, and constantly evolving. Fix these mistakes, and you will instantly boost conversions and gain an edge over the competition.

Which of these mistakes are you most guilty of?