Today, I want to share a hidden gem with you—something small but powerful that can help you attract more web design clients through your website…I call it a “Founder’s Note” and adding it to your homepage can make a significant difference. In this blog post, I’ll explain why it’s so effective and how you can craft your own, backed by real-world examples from successful web designers.
Why a Founder’s Note?
Most web designer websites, whether freelancers or agencies, often miss a personal touch. Potential clients visiting your site might have no idea who’s behind the brand. This anonymity can be a barrier to building trust and rapport. Imagine you’re a potential client—visiting a website, you wouldn’t know if the company is a massive agency with a large team or a solo entrepreneur working from home. A Founder’s Note can clear this ambiguity and make your business feel more personal and approachable.
What is a Founder’s Note?
In short, a Founder’s Note is a brief, personalized message from the founder, CEO, or creative director, often accompanied by a photo. It’s an introduction that helps potential clients understand who they’ll be working with. Let’s look at some examples and tips on creating an effective Founder’s Note.
Examples of Effective Founder’s Notes
- In Transit Studios: On my own freelance website, In Transit Studios, I have a section titled “Why Work With Us.” I include my photo and a brief message about what makes us different. This makes it clear that Josh and his team will handle the project, offering a personal touch even though it’s not a solo venture. You can check out this example here
- Sandfire Design: One of my students, Sandy, has scaled her business but still remains the main point of contact. Her website features a photo and a note that says, “I’m Sandy. I build websites that work.” This warm, welcoming message helps clients know they’ll be working with Sandy herself. You can see Sandy’s website here
- Exalto Design.com: Austyn, a member of my web design community, recently added a Founder’s Note to his agency’s site. It’s a straightforward section titled “Founders Note,” featuring a photo and a brief introduction. This approach works well whether it’s part of a mission statement or a standalone section. Visit Austyn’s site here
- Hilltop Web Solutions: Leigh Ann, another member of Web Designer Pro™, has a section titled “Meet Your Designer” on her site, Hilltop Web Solutions. This includes her photo and a short message about her passion for web design, making it clear who clients will work with. Check out Leanne’s site here
- Ukiiki: Chris’s marketing style web design agency doesn’t have an about page, but his Founder’s Note makes it clear that clients will be working with him. Adding a simple arrow pointing to his photo with a note like “I’m the CEO and founding owner” can make a big difference. See Chris’s site here
- Graphic Kitchen: John’s site, Graphic Kitchen, features a menu item “Meet John,” making it easy for visitors to know who’s behind the brand. A simple photo and title like “John, Founder and Creative Director” can make your website more personable. Explore John’s site here
- Jenny Lane Design: Jennifer’s website has a note titled “A Note from Jenny Lane,” adding a personal touch that resonates with her mission to help purpose-driven business owners. You can view Jennifer’s site here
How to Craft Your Own Founder’s Note
We’ve covered some real world examples for reference, now here are five tips to help you create YOUR Founder’s Note:
- Mission Statement: Use your business’s mission statement as your Founder’s Note. It’s a great way to convey the results you aim to achieve for your clients. For example, “Our mission is to create websites that help businesses grow and succeed online.”
- What Makes You Different: Think about what you would say if someone asked you in 30 seconds why you’re different from other web designers. That’s your Founder’s Note. Record it, transcribe it, and tweak it for your website. For instance, “We specialize in creating bespoke websites tailored to each client’s unique needs.”
- Specialty or Niche: If you have a specialty, such as building Shopify websites or working with a specific industry like veterinary clinics, mention it. For example, “I have a passion for designing Shopify websites that enhance e-commerce businesses.”
- Purpose-Driven Business: If your business has a deeper meaning or purpose, make that the focus. For example, “We are dedicated to creating websites for non-profits and organizations that make a difference in the world.”
- Compelling Story: Share the beginning of your story as your Founder’s Note. It can lead visitors to your about page for more details. For example, “I started this business to help small businesses have a professional online presence, something I struggled with when I began.”
Final thoughts
Adding a Founder’s Note to your homepage is a small change that can have a big impact. It personalizes your website, builds trust, and helps potential clients feel more comfortable moving forward. Whether you’re a solo freelancer or run a larger agency, this simple addition can help you stand out in a competitive market.
I encourage you to add a Founder’s Note to your website today. It doesn’t have to be perfect—just start with a version and refine it over time. Feel free to check out the examples mentioned and see how they’ve implemented their Founder’s Notes. I’d love to hear how this tip helps your business, so please share your experience in the comments below.
Let’s make your web design business more personal and welcoming (and get you more web design clients) with a Founder’s Note!
