Starting Simple: What Should Be On a Small Business Website?

If you’ve ever stared at a blank screen wondering what should be on a small business website, you’re not alone. Many small business owners — especially beginners — feel unsure about where to begin.

The good news? You don’t need pages and pages of content or complicated tech. Just a few clear, thoughtful sections can help visitors trust you, understand your business, and take the next step.

This guide walks you through the essentials — calmly, step by step.

1. A Clear and Friendly Homepage

Your homepage is like your shop window. It should tell visitors:

  • Who you are

  • What you do

  • Who you help

  • How to get in touch or buy from you

Don’t worry about fancy animations. Instead, focus on a short introduction and a simple call to action like “See My Services” or “Contact Me.”

Friendly homepage design on a small business website | What Should Be on a Small Business Website?

2. An “About” Page That Builds Trust

Jackie on about me page

People buy from people — so let them meet you!

Share your story, why you started, and who you love to work with. I have written a lesson on writing an ‘ About Me’ page.  It also comes with a video.  Check it out here

This isn’t bragging; it’s building connection.

A warm, honest “Aboutpage can do more than 10 social posts when it comes to trust.

3. A Services or Products Page

Make it easy to connect with you. Add:

  • Your email

  • A simple contact form

  • Optional: phone number or address

  • A map if you’re a physical location

Bonus tip: Add a friendly message like, “I usually reply within 24 hours!”

5. A Blog or Resource Section (Optional — But Powerful)

Not everyone needs a blog, but if you enjoy writing (or sharing helpful tips), it can be a fantastic way to:

  • Help your audience

  • Show your expertise

  • Improve your SEO

Even one or two posts can build trust. Need ideas? Try “5 Questions I Get Asked All the Time” or “How to Choose the Right [Your Product/Service].”

6. A Simple Menu and Mobile-Friendly Layout

Make sure visitors can find everything quickly. Your top menu should include:

  • Home

  • About

  • Services

  • Blog (if you have one)

  • Contact

Most WordPress themes handle this easily. If you’re not sure how, I’ve got a step-by-step post to help: How to Add a Menu to Your Website 

cartoon of a cell phone

But What About SEO, Themes, and All That Stuff?

Don’t worry — one step at a time. Once you’ve added the essentials above, you can start thinking about how your site looks (your theme) and how people find you (SEO).

If you’re still unsure what WordPress theme to use, this beginner-friendly guide might help:
10 Free WordPress Themes Perfect for Beginners

Or if you’d like more structured training and tools, I learned a lot from Wealthy Affiliate — a platform that walks you through everything from choosing a theme to growing your audience. Click here to find out more

Frequently Asked Question

1.  What is the most important page on a small business website?

For most visitors, your homepage is the most important page. It’s the shop window of your business. People should quickly see who you are, what you do, who you help, and how to get in touch. If your homepage feels clear and welcoming, they’ll want to look around the rest of your site.

2.  Do I need a blog if I run a small business?

Not every small business needs a blog. But a blog can be really powerful if you like sharing tips or answering customer questions. Even one or two useful posts can help people trust your expertise and make your site easier to find on Google. Think of it as a friendly way to start conversations with potential customers.

3. How many pages should a small business website have?

You don’t need dozens of pages. Most small business websites work well with 5–6 simple pages:

  • Home

  • About

  • Services or Products

  • Contact

  • Blog (optional)

It’s better to have a few clear, helpful pages than lots of half-finished ones. You can always add more later as your business grows.

6 Essentials Every Small Business Website Needs

And Finally…

Now you know what should be on a small business website — and it’s probably less than you feared!

Do you already have these pages on your site?
Which one do you want to focus on next?

Let me know in the comments — or send me a message if you’d like help with your next step.

Here’s a little transparency: My website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support my mission to bring you quality content.