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How to Spot an Unprofessional Website (And What to Fix First)

Business owner reviewing signs of unprofessional web design including poor navigation, slow loading speeds, and outdated visuals on 10com site audit

Is Your Website Hurting Your Business?

Your website is often the first impression of your brand. If it feels outdated, slow, or clunky, visitors won't stick around long enough to explore your services. Whether you’re a small business or a growing brand, your web design must build trust and guide users toward action.


Below are the most common signs of unprofessional web design — and exactly how to fix them.


1. Your Site Isn’t Mobile-Friendly

More than half of all website traffic comes from mobile devices. If your site isn’t optimized for phones and tablets, users will bounce quickly — and Google will

notice.


Fix it:

  • Use responsive design that adjusts to any screen size

  • Test on multiple devices for font size, spacing, and menu accessibility

  • Compress images and remove heavy scripts that slow down mobile load time


If you’re not sure where to start, 10com’s Wix website design packages include full mobile optimization built into every layout.


2. Slow Load Speeds Are Driving Users Away

Visitors expect your site to load in under 3 seconds. Any longer, and they’re likely gone — especially on mobile.


Fix it:

  • Compress large images and use next-gen formats

  • Limit third-party scripts and plugins

  • Enable browser caching


Want to make your site load faster and rank higher? Explore our SEO services to improve site performance and search visibility.


3. Poor Navigation Creates Friction

If users can’t figure out where to go or how to take the next step, they’ll leave. Messy menus, hidden buttons, or inconsistent layouts kill engagement.


Fix it:

  • Use simple, clear menu structures

  • Keep navigation consistent across all pages

  • Include bold, visible calls to action like “Get a Quote” or “Schedule a Consultation”


See examples of streamlined structure in our website design portfolio.


4. Outdated Visual Design Sends the Wrong Message

Design trends evolve — if your site still looks like it was built in 2013, that’s a red flag. Poor use of space, inconsistent fonts, and dated layouts make your business appear out of touch.


Fix it:

  • Stick to clean typography, modern spacing, and clear hierarchy

  • Remove animations that serve no functional purpose

  • Refresh your visuals to align with your brand’s current voice and tone


Need help? Our branding and identity services can bring your site up to date without losing your brand’s core message.


Keep Your Website Aligned With Modern Expectations

Maintaining a professional website isn’t about perfection — it’s about clarity, consistency, and user-first thinking. If you address these four problem areas, you’ll dramatically improve user experience, trust, and ultimately, conversion rates.


Ready for a redesign that reflects your expertise? Work with our team at 10com and discover what a high-performing, professional website should feel like. Learn more about our approach to custom design.


Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my website looks unprofessional?

Look for signs like slow loading, poor mobile layout, inconsistent navigation, and outdated visuals. These are strong indicators that a redesign is needed.

Why does mobile optimization matter so much?

Most users access websites from mobile devices. A non-mobile-friendly site leads to higher bounce rates and lower rankings in search engines.

Can design really impact my search rankings?

Yes. Google prioritizes user experience, and poor design — especially speed and responsiveness — can negatively affect SEO.

How often should I update my website design?

A full redesign every 2–3 years is common. However, ongoing updates to content, visuals, and performance are recommended at least quarterly.


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