Web design is constantly changing, and with it, the methods to create high-performing, visually stunning sites evolve too. In a podcast with Jaeden Shafer, a prominent AI podcaster, and Bryce Coleman, CEO of Magnet Marketing SEO, some hard truths and actionable tips were shared. The conversation unpacked the secrets behind creating high-converting websites, integrating user behavior insights, and optimizing SEO fundamentals.
The State of Web Design: Overpricing and SEO Gaps
Bryce Coleman didn’t sugarcoat his thoughts on the current state of web design. Many agencies charge clients exorbitant fees while outsourcing work to teams that overlook critical SEO elements. The result? Websites that look good on the surface but fail to deliver search engine visibility or conversions.
If you’re tired of spending big bucks on subpar results, you’re not alone. Businesses often face frustration when their websites don’t perform or fail to rank for essential keywords. Understanding the core purpose of a site—to attract, engage, and convert visitors—needs to be the driving force.
The takeaway is simple: demand accountability and ensure foundational SEO practices are prioritized. These include proper URL structuring, schema markup, and mobile responsiveness. Without these basics, even the prettiest websites won’t succeed.
Using WordPress & Elementor Pro to Your Advantage
WordPress remains a popular choice for building websites, offering flexibility and customization. When paired with Elementor Pro, it allows you to create professional layouts without needing advanced coding skills. Bryce, however, highlighted a common struggle with this tool: balancing features with page speed.
Slower websites can drastically affect user experience and conversion rates. To counteract this, Coleman suggests focusing on image optimization by compressing images without losing quality and selecting high-performance hosting providers. He also advocates for limiting unnecessary graphics, animations, and widgets.
Keep your website lean. Simplicity isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a technical requirement for faster load times and better rankings on Google. Speed impacts everything from bounce rates to organic traffic growth.
Why Bricks Builder Stands Out
Shifting gears, Coleman spoke about his move toward Bricks Builder, a newer, lighter-weight alternative to Elementor Pro. It excels in speed and performance, especially for businesses looking to build SEO-friendly websites. Unlike Elementor, Bricks Builder doesn’t bog down your pages with bloated code, making it ideal for high-speed hosting environments.
While Elementor Pro is still a fantastic choice for some clients, Bryce emphasized that Bricks Builder is his go-to for projects requiring faster page speed scores. The cleaner codebase ensures better performance without sacrificing design flexibility.
For agencies, using a mix of tools tailored to client goals is crucial. Whether it’s a portfolio site or an e-commerce store, the right builder makes all the difference.
Designing for Trust and Conversions
Design matters, but so does trust. Websites that use authentic elements—such as real team photos, consistent branding, and clear messaging—are more likely to engage users. This authenticity translates into higher trust and better conversion rates.
You don’t have to overthink the visuals. A strong color palette, professional-grade images, and simple layouts can do wonders. When paired with elements like trust badges and testimonials, visitors feel reassured about the brand.
Strategic placement of call-to-action buttons also impacts how users interact with the site. Make them prominent, avoid clutter, and test what works for your audience. These tweaks seem small but collectively make a big difference.
Conversion Rate Optimization: The Subtle Art
Conversion Rate Optimization (CRO) involves fine-tuning website elements to maximize lead generation or sales. Coleman stresses using sticky headers, visible call-to-action buttons, and strategically placed forms. These techniques encourage visitors to act without overwhelming them.
Live chat widgets and chatbots are also useful for boosting engagement. Adding real-time support options can dramatically improve how users interact with your brand. If users feel heard, they are far more likely to convert.
The goal here isn’t to add flashy gimmicks. Instead, make the user journey as seamless as possible. Simple navigation and easy access to information turn casual browsers into paying customers.
Understanding User Behavior
People skim, not read. Coleman’s podcast emphasized how user behavior online is far from what businesses might expect. Visitors glance at headlines, scroll through visuals, and ignore dense paragraphs. As such, presenting key information upfront is essential.
This behavior calls for smart design choices. Use visuals to complement text and highlight trust badges in high-visibility areas. Professional-looking websites that respect user time build credibility and encourage return visits.
If your website doesn’t make its purpose obvious in under 10 seconds, you’ll lose potential customers. Make sure your landing pages are clear, concise, and actionable.
Press Releases: Building Authority with Media
Appearing in news outlets builds credibility for businesses, a point Bryce passionately discussed. Getting your website featured in media coverage not only enhances brand authority but also brings valuable backlinks for SEO.
Promote these features by showcasing press mentions or “as seen on” logos on your website. This signals to users that your business has credibility and recognition. Press releases can amplify this effort, driving organic traffic while elevating your reputation.
Investing in high-quality press outreach is worth it. It helps boost domain authority, something search engines value when ranking websites.
Why High-Quality Web Design Matters
A poorly designed website can lose you leads faster than you’d expect. Customers associate the quality of your site with the quality of your services. If your website feels outdated or clunky, users might assume your business operates the same way.
Professional web design isn’t just about looking good; it’s about functionality and user experience. Elements like fast load times, responsive layouts, and seamless navigation play a huge role in retaining visitors.
Think of your website as your 24/7 salesperson. You want it to work hard, bringing in leads and converting visitors at all hours. If it’s not optimized for performance, you’re leaving money on the table.
Make the Right Call
Jaeden and Bryce ended the podcast with a clear message: investing in good web design is no longer optional. It’s a core part of doing business in the digital age. Whether you’re an agency, an entrepreneur, or a small business owner, prioritizing speed, usability, and SEO will set you apart.
For agencies looking to expand their offerings, partnering with experts like Magnet Marketing SEO ensures your clients get results, not excuses. Don’t let your website be an afterthought—it’s your most powerful tool for connecting with customers.
