Websites under the microscope at MNA Digital event
Businesses were given top tips on how to improve their digital skills and grow their companies at an event in Wolverhampton.
Bosses from local companies of all shapes and sizes were given advice on changes to help them attract more custom and boost their businesses.
The event, run by MNA Digital and the Black Country Chamber of Commerce, saw attendees offered expert advice on and tips on how to increase their web traffic and improve their websites to make customers more likely to use their services.
Intrepid volunteers allowed their own websites to be scrutinised in front of the audience at Casino 36 on Temple Street to see what changes could be made to make them more customer-friendly.
They included Ricky Shea-Francis, 24, of Nike Computing on Tettenhall Road, who was advised on several changes which could make his website easier for visitors to navigate.
He said: "I found it really useful and there are a lot of points that I will implement. I felt Matt gave some points that can help me."
Mr Shea-Francis said he wasn't daunted by having his website critiqued in front of the audience of around 30 people.
He added: "I knew my website wasn't perfect so I felt fine. I will go back to the office and make some of the changes. The things he did mention I will implement them straight away."
Kerry Closswick, from Bradley Environment in Halesowen, which was another company to have its website scrutinised, said: "I found out a lot of information which is good for me as I'm the marketing manager.
"It is good for an outsider to look at it and for someone else to critique it and give feedback."
Matt Fowell, head of paid search at MNA Digital, who delivered the presentation and was the man tasked with judging businesses' websites but said he found that the most exciting part of the event.
He said: "I always enjoy these events where people are genuinely passionate about building their businesses.
"It's about finding brave people who put their hand up and have their websites critiqued in front of an audience.
"It opens their eyes. You're taking a bit of them so obviously they are going to listen intently."
Kris Jones, training and events co-ordinator at the Black Country Chamber of Commerce, said: "We have put together a series of courses to help businesses in the Black Country.
"Things like this, free sessions, help to compliment our offering and working with MNA Digital and the Express & Star has allowed us a platform to provide it.
"Offering these taster sessions can get smaller businesses in that may be daunted by larger sessions. It is good to mix and interact and bring businesses together and give them things like this."
Business can access a free website review by visiting https://www.mnadigital.co.uk/website-health-check.
The next free business support events will be on Thursday, November 7 at Hawkesyard Estate in Cannock and then Thursday, November 14 at Casino 36 in Wolverhampton.
People can register online by visiting mnadigital.co.uk/events.
