Should you DIY your website, use a template, or hire a designer? Take this 5-question quiz

Have you ever been working on your website, taken a quick break, come back to it, then think to yourself “It looks fine… but something is off?”

If you have, don’t worry, I’ve been there many times myself as a website designer and strategist for small business websites.

Often times the issues I come across are not to do with whether you’re able to build a website (because getting something up and running in today’s online landscape is pretty easy), it’s typically about whether or not your current website is working for you.

It can often be the deeper structural or strategic layer that’s hindering your website. Especially for small business owners like fitness coaches or wellness professionals who’ve outgrown their DIY website.

So in today’s blog, I want to walk through a little 5 question quiz I put together that will help you figure out if you should keep DIYing your website, upgrade to a strategic website template or perhaps bring it in to a professional designer.

At the end, you’ll know exactly what your next move should be.

Watch the video version here!

A quick note on why website strategy matters (even if you’re getting by on socials for now)

If you’re relying on referrals or Instagram to book clients, it might seem like a website is optional but assuming you don’t need one can slow down your growth.

Here’s what a well-built website actually does:

• Builds instant credibility with your potential clients

• Boosts your visibility in search

• Can help you streamline your client experience

• Positions your brand at the level you’re aiming for

So let’s jump into the quiz to see what level your current website is at! And find out if it’s truly helping your business grow, or if it’s time to upgrade your website.

Website self-audit quiz: Should you DIY, use a template, or hire a web designer?

Grab a pen, jot down your answers (A, B or C) for each one, and we’ll decode your results at the end. You can also download the free PDF version here for in-depth tailored next steps!

1. How easy is it for someone to find what they need on your site?

• A: Very clear. People always know where to go.

• B: Mostly okay, but sometimes people get confused.

• C: I have no idea what they see. I worry it’s unclear.

2. When someone lands on your site, do they understand what you do and who you help?

• A: Absolutely. It’s front and centre.

• B: I think so, but sometimes I get questions that make me doubt it.

• C: Not really. It feels vague.

3. Are your services easy to find and take action on (e.g. book, contact, buy)?

• A: Yes! Clear, obvious, and simple.

• B: My services are listed, but the next step might not be obvious.

• C: It’s confusing. I haven’t figured out the flow yet.

4. How do you feel when you send someone your site?

• A: Confident. It reflects my brand well.

• B: A little unsure. I usually explain things or give context.

• C: Honestly? I cringe a bit.

5. Does your site reflect your current brand and business?

• A: 100%. It attracts the right clients.

• B: It’s okay, but not quite aligned with where I’m headed.

• C: It’s outdated or just off.

….Results time!

Mostly A’s: Keep DIYing
You’ve got a solid handle on your site. It’s working for you right now, and it reflects your brand. Keep refining, and check in again as your business evolves.

Mostly B’s: Try a template
You’ve laid the groundwork, but something’s missing. A strategic website template can give you the boost you need without starting over. (We’ve got a few that might be perfect, take a peek here.)

Mostly C’s: Time to hire a designer
You’ve outgrown your current setup. A professional can help you realign your brand, improve your website strategy, and build something that converts.

Free PDF + next steps!

Remember to grab the downloadable version of this quiz with tailored advice based on your answers right here!

One last thing…

Now regardless of if you’re planning to DIY your website, use a template or hire a professional website designer, you don’t want to skip planning your website!

But knowing how to do this can be SO overwhelming. I created this blog post here that takes you through how to plan a high-converting small business website!