Your Showit site already looks stunning. Now let’s make it work hard by quietly gathering email leads in the background. Why? Because algorithms change and social feeds move fast, but an inbox conversation sticks around.

Every day, fresh faces land on your site. From a Pinterest pin, a Google search, or a friend’s referral. Most won’t buy on that first visit, and that’s okay. When you invite them onto your email list, you earn a direct line to follow up, share value, and guide them toward the moment they’re ready to purchase.

Here's how it works

1. A visitor arrives on your website.
2. They trade their email for a helpful freebie or update.
3. You nurture the relationship with friendly, useful emails.
4. They come back feeling confident and become a paying customer.

Design still matters, beautiful pages build trust, but pairing great visuals with smart list-building strategies turns your site into a true growth lever. In this guide, you’ll learn how to set up email capture on your Showit site, create compelling opt-ins, and turn visitors into subscribers who stick around.

Collect Emails With Contact Forms Built to Convert

If you’re building a brand that lasts, you need a way to keep in touch with the people who land on your site. That’s where email capture comes in. A well-placed, well-designed form with a good offer can turn a casual visitor into a future client, student, or customer.

Instead of a vague “Sign up for my newsletter,” make your offer specific. Think: a free guide, a discount, a quick-start checklist, or bonus content. The clearer the benefit, the more likely someone is to hand over their email.

Here are three popular tools that pair beautifully with Showit and make collecting emails easy.

BDOW!

Want a custom popup that grabs attention without being annoying? BDOW! lets you build fully branded popups triggered by scroll depth, exit intent, or page timing. If you’re familiar with designing in Showit, you’ll love how easy BDOW! is to customize and integrate.

Flodesk

Known for beautifully designed forms and simple automation, Flodesk helps you embed on-brand popups or inline forms anywhere on your site. Great for sending instant freebies or welcome emails, without overcomplicating things.

Kit

Looking for more advanced tools? Kit lets you tag subscribers based on what they signed up for and send targeted emails that feel personal. It’s perfect if you’re ready to take your email strategy further — and it works beautifully with Showit’s HTML embed blocks.

Pro tip!

Don’t set it and forget it. Try A/B testing different offers, placements, and triggers to see what resonates best with your audience. A small tweak can lead to big improvements in signups.

Create a Freebie Your Audience Will Love

If you want someone to hand over their email address, you’ve got to make it worth their while. That’s where a lead magnet or freebie comes in.

Think of it as a helpful little “thank you” in exchange for their attention. Whether it’s a checklist, mini course, resource library, or discount code, your freebie should solve a real problem or offer a quick win. The more specific and valuable it feels, the more likely your visitor is to say yes.

Need a few lead magnet ideas? Try:

• A beautifully designed, downloadable checklist
• Instant access to a freebie library or toolkit
• An email-based mini-course or challenge
• A one-time discount or early access to something new

Pro Tip!

Choose a lead magnet that naturally aligns with your offer. If someone signs up for a website planning checklist, chances are they’ll be interested in your design services or templates down the road. This way, you’re building a list of the right people, not just a big list.

If you need more help with creating a lead magnet, you can check out this detailed article on exactly how to create one.

Automate Your Email Funnel (So Every New Subscriber Feels Seen)

Once someone signs up for your freebie, the last thing you want is for them to hear… nothing. That’s where email automation comes in. Platforms like Flodesk (great for visuals), ConvertKit (popular with creators), and Kit (advanced automation) make it easy to welcome subscribers and stay in touch, without doing everything manually.

Whether you're delivering a free resource, sending a warm introduction, or starting a short email series, automation keeps your list engaged while you focus on creating, serving, or launching something new.

Here’s what a simple email funnel might look like:

1. A visitor signs up through your Showit site form.
2. They’re automatically added to the right email list.
3. A welcome email (or series) is sent right away.
4. You stay top of mind—and build trust—while they get to know you.

Pro Tip!

Your first email doesn’t have to be fancy, just friendly. Write it like you're welcoming someone into your space.

Automation helps your marketing run quietly in the background, turning first-time visitors into future clients, all while making every subscriber feel like they’re part of something thoughtful and intentional.

Let Your Website Do the Heavy Lifting

Good news, lead generation doesn’t have to be complicated (or boring). With a standout freebie, a well-placed form, and a few thoughtful emails, your Showit site can do more than just look pretty. It can quietly collect leads and grow your business, without losing any of your creative style.

You already have what you need. Showit gives you the freedom to design every part of your funnel your way — and it works seamlessly with email platforms like Flodesk, ConvertKit, and Kit. Whether you’re offering a checklist, a resource library, or an email mini-course, you can build it beautifully and run it effortlessly in the background.

From freebie to follow-up, it’s all within reach. Now go build something amazing, your future subscribers are waiting.

Let’s talk about your website. You’ve probably spent hours (let’s be honest, days) perfecting every detail, from the hero image that makes you swoon to the fonts that match your brand’s vibe. But here’s the million-dollar question: is your website actually bringing in leads? Or is it just sitting there looking pretty like an online brochure that visitors glance at and then forget?

If you’re nodding (or cringing) right now – don’t stress. You’re not alone. The good news? Turning your Showit site into a lead-generating powerhouse is absolutely within reach—and easier than you might think.

Let’s break it down into five straightforward strategies that’ll have your website working overtime (so you can focus on serving clients, creating magic, or, you know, actually having a life).

1. Create High-Value Lead Magnets

Let’s talk about lead magnets. They’re those awesome resources you give to your website visitors for free in exchange for their email address. Think of them as the first step to building a real connection with potential clients.

Here’s the deal: your lead magnet has to be genuinely valuable — something your ideal client actually wants and needs, not just something you think they should have.

What Makes a Lead Magnet Effective?

A great lead magnet solves a specific problem for your audience. The more specific, the better.

For example, “Photography Tips” is kind of broad. But “5 Poses That Make Anyone Look Natural in Photos” hits right at the heart of what your audience struggles with.

Your lead magnet should give your audience a quick win, something they can put into action right away. That immediate success builds trust and keeps them coming back for more.

The best lead magnets also show off your expertise. They let your audience know you’re the one they can trust when they’re ready to take the next step. And when your lead magnet ties directly into what you actually sell, it’s a smooth, natural transition to your paid offerings.

Lead Magnet Ideas That Convert Like Crazy

Checklists are always a hit. Try something like “The Ultimate Website Launch Checklist” or “10-Point Pre-Photoshoot Checklist.”

Templates are a fan favorite too. Think design templates, email templates, or even social media templates.

Comprehensive guides are another great option. Try “The Beginner’s Guide to Branding Your Business” or “The Photographer’s Guide to Natural Light.”

Want to add some fun? Quizzes are a great way to engage your audience and collect leads at the same time. Think “What’s Your Brand Personality?” or “What Type of Website Does Your Business Need?”

Mini-courses delivered by email are another awesome way to provide value and position yourself as the go-to expert.

Oh, and don’t forget to put your lead magnet where people can actually find it. Make it easy for visitors to say “yes” by featuring it on your homepage, service pages, and even giving it its own landing page.

2. Optimize Your Landing Pages for Conversion

A landing page has one main job: to turn visitors into leads. Unlike other pages on your website that might juggle multiple purposes, a great landing page is all about getting that email address.

Elements of a High-Converting Landing Page

First things first, you need a clear and compelling headline that immediately shows your visitors what they’re going to get. Think benefits first — why should they care?

Next, back it up with visuals that draw them in. High-quality images or videos that support your message go a long way.

Your copy should focus on how your offer helps them, not just what it is. Make it super clear how it solves a problem or makes their life easier.

Trust matters too, so add some social proof. Testimonials or success stories can show that real people have gotten real results.

When it comes to your form, keep it simple. Ask only for the information you actually need. Every extra field can mean fewer sign-ups.

And don’t forget a strong call to action. Use language that’s action-oriented and maybe even adds a little urgency to get people to click.

The Landing Page Formula That Works

A landing page that converts follows a tried-and-true structure.

Start by calling out the problem your visitor is facing. Let them know you understand their struggle.

Then, introduce your solution. Explain how your lead magnet helps them solve that problem.

Next, highlight the benefits they’ll get from grabbing your resource. Show them what’s in it for them.

Add a touch of credibility so they know you’re the real deal. That could be as simple as a short testimonial or mentioning your experience.

Wrap it up with a clear and compelling call to action that leaves no doubt about what to do next.

The best part? With Showit, you can design landing pages that look exactly how you want them to, no coding required. You get total creative freedom to make something that feels true to your brand while following all the best practices for conversion.

3. Utilize Targeted Pop-Ups on Your Website

When used thoughtfully, pop-ups can be a powerful way to generate more leads without disrupting your visitors' experience. The key is to make them relevant, timely, and genuinely valuable.

Strategic Ways to Use Pop-Ups

Exit-intent pop-ups are a great way to catch someone who’s about to leave your site. This is the perfect moment to offer a last-minute lead magnet and capture visitors who might never come back.

Timed pop-ups appear after a visitor has spent a certain amount of time on your page, showing that they’re engaged and interested in what you’re sharing.

Scroll-based pop-ups trigger when someone has scrolled through a specific percentage of your page. This means they’re invested in your content, making them more likely to convert.

URL-based pop-ups allow you to show different offers depending on which page someone is viewing. This keeps your message relevant to what they’re already exploring.

One of the most advanced approaches is using referring domain pop-ups. These tailor your message based on where your visitor came from. For example, someone who clicked through from Pinterest might be looking for design inspiration, while someone from Google could be searching for a specific solution.

With Showit, and tools like BDOW!, you can design beautiful pop-ups that match your brand perfectly instead of looking like an afterthought.

Pop-Up Best Practices

• Keep your pop-ups simple. Use a clear headline, concise copy, and one strong call to action. Make sure you’re offering something valuable enough to be worth the interruption.

• Design your pop-ups so they feel like a natural part of your brand experience, not a jarring distraction.

• Be mindful of frequency. Limit to one pop-up per session so you don’t overwhelm your visitors. And use smart targeting so you don’t show the same pop-up to someone who’s already subscribed.

When you use pop-ups with care, they can enhance the user experience and help you grow your audience without feeling pushy.

4. Leverage Social Media and Paid Ads

Your website doesn’t exist in a vacuum. It’s a key piece of your online presence that works best when connected with your social media and paid advertising efforts. Together, they can drive targeted traffic to your lead-generating pages and help you build stronger relationships with your audience.

Organic Social Media Strategies

Get creative with your content by sharing sneak peeks or valuable snippets from your lead magnet to build interest. Give your audience a behind-the-scenes look at how you created your free resource. Highlight success stories from people who have gotten great results using your lead magnet.

Don’t be shy about your call to action. Invite your followers to grab your lead magnet and make it super clear how they can get it.

Remember to tailor your promotional content to fit each platform’s unique format and what your audience expects there. This makes your posts feel more natural and keeps them from sounding overly salesy.

Paid Advertising Approaches

While organic reach is great, paid ads can help you reach more of the right people, faster.

Facebook and Instagram ads let you target specific demographics, interests, and behaviors that match your ideal client. Pinterest ads work well for visual industries and for content that helps solve a particular problem. Google ads are perfect for reaching people who are actively searching for solutions you offer.

When you run ads, make sure you send traffic to a dedicated landing page instead of your homepage. This keeps your message clear and focused, which leads to better conversions.

Start with smaller budgets so you can test and optimize what’s working before investing more.

Cross-Promotion Strategy

Make sure all your marketing efforts work together in a way that feels seamless to your audience. Start by building awareness on social media with valuable posts. Use those posts and ads to drive traffic to your website. Once visitors arrive, capture their interest with dedicated landing pages and pop-ups. Then, keep nurturing those relationships through thoughtful email sequences.

This approach builds trust, keeps your messaging consistent, and makes it easier for your audience to take the next step with you.

5. Host Webinars or Live Events

Webinars and live events are fantastic ways to generate leads while building trust and showcasing your expertise. They also give you a chance to connect with potential clients in a more personal way.

Why Webinars and Live Events Work So Well

Live interaction creates a much stronger connection than simply consuming passive content. People tend to value live training more than static information. These events typically run between 30 and 60 minutes, giving you plenty of time to show your knowledge and answer questions. Plus, they naturally open the door to talk about your paid offerings in a way that feels helpful, not pushy.

How to Host a Lead-Generating Webinar

Start by picking a specific topic that addresses a challenge your ideal client faces. Then, set up a dedicated registration page using your Showit site to make it easy for people to sign up.

Promote your event through social media, your email list, and even paid ads if you want to reach a wider audience.

During the event, focus on giving your audience a ton of value. Share your best content, not just surface-level information. Wrap up with a clear next step by offering something special to attendees. This could be a free consultation, a discount, or another opportunity to keep working with you.

Webinar Topic Ideas

How-to sessions are always popular. For example, “How to Create a Brand That Stands Out in a Crowded Market.”

Case studies are a great way to show real results. Try something like “Behind the Scenes: How We Helped Client X Achieve Y Results.”

You can also host panel discussions by teaming up with other businesses that complement yours, which helps you reach a bigger audience.

Q&A sessions are perfect for showcasing your expertise in a natural way.

Even after the live event is over, you can keep generating leads by offering the replay in exchange for an email address.

Your Lead Generation Roadmap

The best lead generation strategy isn’t about relying on just one tactic. It’s about building a system where each piece supports the others.

Start by creating a strong foundation with high-value lead magnets and landing pages that are optimized for conversions. Use a variety of capture methods like pop-ups, forms, and calls to action throughout your site so your visitors always have a clear next step.

Next, focus on driving traffic by using social media and paid ads to bring your ideal clients to your website. Keep them engaged by hosting webinars and live events where you can connect on a more personal level.

Remember to analyze and adjust. Regularly check what’s working, refine your approach, and celebrate your progress.

Lead generation isn’t just about collecting email addresses. It’s about starting meaningful relationships with people who need what you offer.

When you focus on giving value at every step, those leads will naturally move closer to becoming paying clients.

The best part about using these strategies with your Showit website? You get complete creative control to design every element exactly how you want. That means your lead generation system will feel like a natural extension of your brand, not an awkward add-on.

Ready to turn your website into a lead-generating powerhouse? Start with just one of these strategies this week and build from there.

Your future clients are out there. Let’s make it easy for them to find you.

People decide whether to keep reading your website or blog post in about 3 seconds. 

And that decision is based almost entirely on your headline.

After helping thousands of creative entrepreneurs build successful websites, we've seen firsthand that your headline is the most valuable real estate on your entire site.

You know it’s true, too. You’ve probably been guilty of X-ing out or not clicking on something that doesn’t instantly grab your attention. 

What's the point of spending hours creating incredible website content if your headline doesn't convince anyone to actually read it?

The headline is where the battle for attention is won or lost.

But here's where things get tricky…

Sometimes the headlines that perform best for SEO aren't the same ones that get the most clicks or conversions. And the super-catchy, click-worthy headlines? They might not help your SEO one bit.

So what's a business owner to do?! Let's dive into exactly how to create headlines that serve BOTH masters – search engines AND human readers.

The Great Headline Balancing Act: SEO vs. Conversion

There's often a tug-of-war when crafting headlines:

SEO-optimized headlines focus on:

• Including exact-match keywords
• Being descriptive of the content
• Being specific and clear
• Following a standard structure

Conversion-focused headlines prioritize:

• Emotional impact
• Curiosity
• Benefits to the reader
• Personality and brand voice

GOOD THING you don't have to choose just one approach! The best headlines actually blend both strategies.

But before we get into exactly how to do that, let's take a step back and consider…

Know Your Goal Before Writing a Single Headline

Different pages on your website serve different purposes, and their headlines should reflect that:

Homepage Headlines

The primary headline on your homepage isn't typically trying to rank for a specific keyword. Instead, it should:

• Clearly communicate what you do
• Speak directly to your ideal client's desires or pain points
• Differentiate you from competitors
• Set the tone for your brand voice

For example, rather than “Professional Photography Services in Denver” (yawn), you might use “Capture Your Family's Most Magical Moments Before They're Gone” (emotional connection) or “Denver's Most Sought-After Family Photographer for Busy Parents” (clear value proposition).

Service Page Headlines

Service page headlines need to balance SEO with clarity about your offerings. They should:

• Include your primary service keyword
• Communicate the unique value your service provides
• Be specific about who the service is for
• Highlight what makes your approach different

Instead of “Website Design Services” (too generic), try “Custom Showit Website Design for Photographers Who Want to Book More Clients” (specific audience, clear benefit, includes keywords).

Blog Post Headlines

Blog headlines often have the most flexibility and can lean more heavily into curiosity and emotion while still incorporating keywords. Great blog headlines:

• Target a specific keyword or question
• Promise a clear benefit or solution to a problem
• Create curiosity or emotional response
• Set clear expectations about the content format (list, guide, case study, etc.)

Rather than “How to Take Better Photos” (too broad), you could use “7 Composition Techniques That Will Instantly Improve Your Photography” (specific, actionable, implies quick results).

About Page Headlines

About page headlines should focus more on connection than SEO, as they're rarely a primary landing page from search. Effective About page headlines:

• Create an emotional connection
• Hint at your story or journey
• Reflect your personality
• Bridge the gap between you and your ideal clients

Instead of “About Our Company” (please never use this!), try “From Kitchen Table Side-Hustle to Award-Winning Design Studio: Our Journey” or “We Help Heart-Centered Entrepreneurs Build Websites That Feel Like Home.”

How to Write Headlines That Satisfy BOTH SEO and Readers

Now for the magic formula that helps you create headlines that rank AND convert:

Step 1: Start with Keyword Research

Before writing any headline, know what terms people are actually searching for. Use tools like:

• Google Keyword Planner
• Ubersuggest
• Answerthepublic.com
• Even Google's autocomplete suggestions

Look for keywords that have:

• Decent search volume
• Manageable competition
• Clear search intent that matches your content

Step 2: Understand Search Intent

Google has gotten scary-good at understanding what people actually want when they search for something. Your headline needs to match that intent:

Informational intent (looking for answers): “How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Photographer for Your Style”

Navigational intent (looking for a specific site/brand): “Showit Website Templates: The Complete Collection for 2023”

Commercial intent (researching before buying): “Showit vs. Squarespace: Which Platform Is Right for Photographers?”

Transactional intent (ready to buy): “Book Your Custom Showit Website Design: Packages & Process”

Step 3: Craft the SEO-Friendly Base Version

Create a clear, specific headline that includes your target keyword in a natural way. This becomes your foundation.

For example: “How to Write Email Newsletters That Subscribers Actually Open”

Step 4: Add Emotional Triggers or Curiosity Elements

Now enhance your headline with elements that trigger emotional responses:

• Numbers: “17 Email Subject Lines That Doubled Our Open Rates”
• Power words: “Irresistible,” “Essential,” “Proven,” “Unexpected”
• Curiosity gaps: “The Counterintuitive Reason Your Newsletters Are Being Ignored”
• Specificity: “How I Grew My Email Open Rates from 22% to 67% in 30 Days”
• Personal pronouns: “Why Your Subscribers Are Ignoring Your Newsletters”

So our example might become: “How to Write Irresistible Email Newsletters Your Subscribers Will Actually Open (Even if You're Not a Writer)”

Step 5: Optimize Length for Different Platforms

Different platforms have different ideal headline lengths:

• Website pages: Keep it under 60 characters so it doesn't get cut off in search results
• Blog posts: Can be longer, but aim for 50-70 characters for SEO titles
• Email subject lines: 30-50 characters perform best
• Social media: Varies by platform (Twitter/X: 55-70 characters, Facebook: 40-80 characters)

If your headline is too long for SEO purposes, create a shorter version specifically for your meta title tag while keeping the longer, more conversational version on the actual page.

6 Headline Formulas That Always Deliver

When you're stuck (or just need to write something quickly), these proven formulas can help you create headlines that work:

1. The “How-To” Headline

Formula: How to [Achieve Desired Outcome] Without [Pain Point] Examples:

• “How to Build a Beautiful Website Without Hiring a Designer”
• “How to Book High-Paying Clients Without Working More Hours”

2. The List Headline

Formula: [Number] [Desirable Things] That Will [Positive Outcome] Examples:

• “7 Website Tweaks That Will Double Your Inquiry Rate This Month”
• “21 Photography Poses That Will Make Anyone Look Like a Model”

3. The Question Headline

Formula: Is Your [Thing] [Negative Situation]? Here's How to Fix It Examples:

• “Is Your About Page Secretly Driving Clients Away? Here's How to Fix It”
• “Are You Making These 5 Fatal Email Marketing Mistakes?”

4. The Secret-Revealing Headline

Formula: The Secret to [Achieving Desired Outcome] Examples:

• “The Secret to Writing Website Copy Clients Can't Resist”
• “The Little-Known Formula Behind Every Successful Wedding Photography Business”

5. The “What Everybody Ought to Know” Headline

Formula: What Every [Type of Person] Ought to Know About [Topic] Examples:

• “What Every Photographer Ought to Know About Website Conversion”
• “What Every Small Business Owner Needs to Know About Email Marketing”

6. The Case Study Headline

Formula: How [Person/Brand] [Achieved Result] in [Timeframe] Examples:

• “How This Wedding Photographer Booked 35 Weddings in 30 Days With One Email”
• “How I Doubled My Website Conversion Rate By Changing Just 3 Things”

A/B Testing: The Secret Weapon of Headline Masters

Want to know what the real pros do when they can't decide between two headline options?

They don't choose. They test both.

A/B testing your headlines is the single most effective way to improve your conversion rates over time. You can test headlines for:

• Email subject lines
• Blog post titles (using social media to test variations)
• Landing page headlines
• Call-to-action buttons

When testing headlines, only change ONE element at a time:

• Test numbers against each other (7 vs. 21 tips)
• Test different power words (“Essential” vs. “Critical”)
• Test question headlines against statement headlines
• Test including vs. excluding your target keyword

Many email platforms have built-in A/B testing. For website pages, you can use tools like Google Optimize or Hotjar to test headline variations.

Headlines That Google Loves (But People Might Scroll Past)

There's a certain type of headline that performs really well in search results but might not grab attention in other contexts:

The ultra-specific, comprehensive guide headline: “The Complete Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Content Calendar for Your Photography Business (With Templates)”

These headlines:

• Are very long and detailed
• Include exact-match keywords
• Often contain parenthetical additions
• Sound more like academic paper titles than marketing

While they might not win creativity awards, they often rank extremely well because they very clearly tell Google exactly what the content is about.

For blog posts in particular, you might want to use a more SEO-friendly headline in your meta title tag (what shows up in search results) and a more compelling, curiosity-driven headline on the actual page.

Headlines That People Love (But Google Might Ignore)

On the flip side, some of the most clickable headlines don't help your SEO at all:

The pure curiosity headline: “I Tried This Weird Trick on My Website and You Won't Believe What Happened Next”

These headlines:

• Create intense curiosity
• Often use vague language
• May include personal pronouns
• Don't typically include keywords
• Can sometimes feel clickbaity

These perform extremely well on social media or in emails where the context is already established, but they provide very little information to search engines about your content.

The Headline Secret Nobody Talks About: It's Not Just the Words

Here's something that doesn't get discussed enough: the visual presentation of your headline matters almost as much as the words themselves.

On your website, consider:

Font Choice

Your headline font should be:

• Easily readable (priority #1)
• Reflective of your brand personality
• Appropriately sized (typically 2-3x larger than body text)
• High contrast against the background

Headlines should be:

Headlines should be:

• Above the fold whenever possible
• Aligned with accompanying visuals
• Properly spaced (with room to breathe)
• Consistent across similar pages

Supporting Elements

Consider adding:

• A small subheadline that expands on your main headline
• Visual cues that draw attention to the headline (arrows, underlines, etc.)
• A high-quality image that reinforces the headline message
• Design elements that frame the headline

With Showit's design flexibility, you can create visually stunning headlines that grab attention through both words AND design elements! Our drag-and-drop editor makes it easy to experiment with different headline presentations until you find the perfect combination for your brand.

Want To See Great Headlines In Action? Stalk These Before & After Examples

Nothing illustrates the power of great headlines like seeing real transformations. Here are some actual before-and-after examples that show the difference between a meh headline and a money-making headline.

Website Homepage:

BEFORE: “Jane Smith Photography” (Generic, says nothing about value or differentiation)

AFTER: “Capturing Your Family's Authentic Joy in Portland's Natural Landscapes” (Clear specialization, location, and emotional benefit)

Service Page:

BEFORE: “Website Design Services” (Generic, highly competitive, no unique value)

AFTER: “Custom Showit Websites for Photographers Who Want to Stand Out & Book More Clients” (Specific platform, target audience, and clear benefits)

Blog Post:

BEFORE: “Email Marketing Tips” (Too broad, competitive, and doesn't promise specific value)

AFTER: “7 Email Templates That Convert Inquiries to Clients (Copy, Paste & Customize)” (Specific number, clear benefit, actionable promise)

About Page:

BEFORE: “About Me” (Please never use this on your website!)

AFTER: “From Corporate Burnout to Booked-Out Designer: How Helping One Friend Led to My Dream Business” (Tells a story, creates intrigue, shows transformation)

When to Write Your Headlines (Hint: Not When You Think)

Most people write their headlines first. But here's a pro tip from our experience working with thousands of successful websites:

Try this approach instead:

1. Write your content first
2. Draft 10-15 possible headlines
3. Let them sit overnight if possible
4. Come back and choose the strongest options
5. Test the best 2-3 versions if possible

By writing your content first, you'll have a much clearer understanding of:

• The specific value your content delivers
• The main points and takeaways
• The tone and voice of the piece
• The keywords that naturally emerge

This approach often leads to more authentic, accurate headlines that truly reflect what makes your content valuable.

Headlines Your Competition Isn't Using (But Should Be)

Want to stand out from all the generic headlines in your industry? We've seen these less common approaches work wonders for our Showit users:

The Contrarian Headline

Challenge conventional wisdom in your field:

• “Why Most Photography Pricing Advice Is Actually Hurting Your Business”
• “The Popular Website ‘Rule' That's Actually Driving Away Your Visitors”

The Specificity Headline

Get ultra-specific about results or methods:

• “How This 15-Minute Homepage Tweak Increased Inquiries by 317% in Just One Week”
• “The Exact 5-Email Sequence That Converted 82% of My Consult Calls Into Clients”

The Personal Story Headline

Use your own experience to create a connection:

• “How I Went From Zero Bookings to Waitlist in 90 Days (Without Paid Ads)”
• “I Almost Quit My Business Last Year—Here's What Saved It”

The “What Nobody Tells You” Headline

Reveal insider information:

• “What Nobody Tells You About Running a Photography Business (Until It's Too Late)”
• “The Hidden Costs of DIY Websites: What Template Sellers Don't Want You to Know”

The Future-Prediction Headline

Position yourself as a trendsetter:

• “5 Website Trends That Will Dominate 2024 (And 3 That Will Vanish)”
• “Why Voice Search Will Change Everything About SEO (And How to Prepare Now)”

Headlines That Convert on Your Showit Website

As you're crafting headlines for your Showit website, remember that conversion happens when the right message meets the right audience at the right time.

Your headlines should:

• Speak directly to your ideal client's current situation
• Address their deepest desires or most pressing pain points
• Differentiate you from competitors they've already seen
• Promise a specific, valuable outcome

One thing we love about Showit is how easy it makes creating visually stunning headlines. You're not limited to basic text formatting – you can add design elements, animations, and perfect spacing to make your headlines truly pop.

We see it all the time with our users – when they combine powerful headline copy with Showit's design capabilities, their conversion rates skyrocket!

Headline Mistakes We See All The Time (Even From Pros)

After helping thousands of creative entrepreneurs build their websites, we've spotted some common headline mistakes that even experienced business owners make:

1. Being Too Clever

Sometimes headlines try so hard to be clever that they sacrifice clarity. Remember: if your reader doesn't immediately understand what you're offering, they'll move on.

2. Forgetting the Benefit

Your headline should answer the eternal question in your reader's mind: “What's in it for me?” Leading with features instead of benefits is a missed opportunity.

3. Writing for Everyone

The most powerful headlines speak directly to a specific audience. When you try to appeal to everyone, you often end up resonating with no one.

4. Ignoring Mobile Users

With more than half of web traffic coming from mobile devices, your headlines need to be concise enough to display properly on smaller screens.

5. The Bait-and-Switch

Your headline creates a promise that your content needs to fulfill. If there's a disconnect between what the headline promises and what the content delivers, you'll lose trust.

6. Headline Neglect

Many website owners spend hours on their content but only seconds on their headlines. Given the importance of headlines in getting people to actually read your content, this approach is backward!

7. Feature-Focused Headlines

“Professional Photography Services” focuses on what you do. “Preserving Your Family's Most Precious Moments” focuses on what your client gets. Always choose the latter.

Headlines That Work Across Different Industries

We've worked with thousands of creative entrepreneurs across countless industries, and we've seen what works. Here are some industry-specific headline examples that have driven real results:

For Photographers:

• “Capturing the Moments You Never Want to Forget (In a Way That's Actually Fun)”
• “Wedding Photography for Couples Who Want Art, Not Just Photos”
• “Family Sessions That Capture Your Kids Being Kids (Not Just Smiling at the Camera)”

For Coaches/Consultants:

• “Stop Hustling for Clients: The 3-Step Framework for Predictable $10K Months”
• “Business Strategy for Creative Entrepreneurs Who Hate ‘Business Strategy'”
• “From Overwhelmed to Organized: How to Finally Build Systems That Scale Your Business”

For Designers:

• “Custom Brand Design That Attracts Premium Clients (Even in a Crowded Market)”
• “Websites That Work as Hard as You Do: Design That Converts Visitors to Clients”
• “Strategic Design for Entrepreneurs Who Know Pretty Isn't Enough”

For Service Providers:

• “Virtual Assistant Services That Give You Back 20+ Hours Every Week”
• “Bookkeeping for Creative Entrepreneurs Who'd Rather Create Than Crunch Numbers”
• “SEO Services That Actually Lead to Client Inquiries (Not Just ‘Traffic')”

Start Crafting Better Headlines Today

Great headlines aren't born—they're made through practice, testing, and constant refinement.

Here's your action plan:

1. Audit your current website headlines using the principles in this post
2. Identify the 3 most important pages to optimize first
3. Draft at least 5-10 alternative headlines for each
4. Get feedback from people in your target audience
5. Implement the strongest options
6. Track changes in traffic, engagement, and conversion

Remember, your headline is a promise to your reader about the value they'll receive from your content. Make it compelling, make it clear, and above all, make sure you deliver on that promise!

The great thing about using Showit for your website is that you can update your headlines anytime, without needing a developer.

See a headline that's not performing? Just hop into our drag-and-drop editor and change it in seconds!

Ready to create a website with headlines that convert browsers into buyers? Try Showit free for 14 days and see why creative entrepreneurs love our platform!=

So, you’ve decided to start building your website with Showit. Great choice, if we may say so.

Maybe one of the deciding factors for you was the way Showit seamlessly integrates with WordPress for all your blogging needs.

Or wait… maybe you haven’t decided just yet. You’re still thinking about going with a WordPress website and using one of the platform’s themes instead of building a site with a builder like Showit.

Okay, we’ll entertain that option.

Now it’s a question of figuring out which way to go. After all, whether you choose one of the best WordPress themes or you choose a Showit + WordPress combo, you want to find something that gives you ease of use, great performance, and high-ranking SEO.

Spoiler: you don’t have to choose Showit OR WordPress. You can use them both together!

Before we get into WordPress themes and how they compare, let’s go over how Showit integrates with WordPress to give you the best of both worlds.

How WordPress and Showit Work Together

When you build a website with Showit, you use its web-building tool to control all aspects of the design.

By that we mean things like colors, fonts, and graphics. 

WordPress, on the other hand, manages all of the blog content.

You'll write blog posts with WordPress, but you'll visually design them with all the tools available to you in Showit.

That means you don’t have to worry about coding, HTML, or trying to rig WordPress.

This is a great option for creative professionals like photographers and designers who want a visually-heavy site but without a lot of stress.

Similarly, if you’re a blogger who simply wants your blog to look great, Showit and WordPress are the perfect pair.

Top 5 WordPress Themes for Designers & Creatives

When we talk about a WordPress theme, we’re referring to a collection of templates and stylesheets that give your WordPress site its distinct visual appearance and layout. 

A theme controls how your content is displayed, including things like your colors, fonts, page structure, and widget locations.

A theme lets you change the look and feel of your website without altering the core functionality or content management system of WordPress itself.

While there are thousands of WordPress themes available to choose from (yeah, really), you also have the option of customizing them to fit your specific needs and preferences.

Here are our top five picks for our favorite WordPress themes for designers and creatives.

1. Elementor (Hello Theme + Elementor Pro)

Elementor combines the minimalist WordPress theme Hello with Elementor Pro, the premium version of the page builder plugin.

This combination gives you a drag-and-drop builder with extensive design flexibility, plus a large library of pre-made templates and widgets. It’s great because it’s beginner-friendly and lets you achieve high customization without any coding.

On the downside, it can slow your site speed if you don’t optimize it. And while many beginners find it user-friendly, you might still need time to learn some of the more advanced features.

2. Divi by Elegant Themes

The Divi theme is an all-in-one visual builder with advanced design capabilities that makes it easy for you to try A/B testing, along with other marketing tools.

It’s great for agencies and has a pricing option that lets you buy it for life, but this does set you up for potential lock-in with the Divi framework.

That can be a problem because your site will be heavily dependent on Divi’s shortcodes and layout structure, making it difficult to switch to a different page builder later on.

3. Simplice

Simplice is a portfolio-focused WordPress theme for designers that offers custom layout-building capabilities without pre-made templates.

This makes it great for anyone who wants high creative control and a sleek, modern design. However, it’s not exactly beginner friendly and could call for a more complex setup.

4. Astra

Astra is a lightweight, fast-loading WordPress theme that’s compatible with Elementor and Beaver Builder. On the plus side, it’s highly customizable and optimized for performance, but some features require you to sign up for the pro version.

5. GeneratePress

The last on our list of the best WordPress themes for designers is GeneratePress, which is focused on performance and speed.

It has a minimalist design, is SEO friendly, and can be easily customized. However, it does have some limited design flexibility without additional CSS. If you want advanced customization options, you’ll probably have to upgrade to the premium version.

 Showit + WordPress: The Best of Both Worlds

Before you choose a WordPress theme, stop and consider this: Using WordPress in conjunction with Showit actually combines the best of both platforms. 

You get the power of WordPress when it comes to content publishing, and the creative control that Showit offers — specifically, the drag-and-drop capability that lets you create your site to look exactly how you want it to.

So when you look at the benefits of our five picks for themes — Elementor, Divi, Simplice, Astra, and GeneratePress — Showit gives you pretty much everything you could want.

It has true ease of use with no restriction, so you have much more design freedom than you would have with most WordPress themes.

Now the question is: Which website builder should you use?

Which Website Builder Should You Choose?

We can’t make any one-size-fits-all recommendation when it comes to the choice between WordPress themes and using WordPress in conjunction with Showit (though you probably know our opinion!).

That said, we do have some thoughts to consider in specific situations. Here’s what we say is the best option for…

Best for Design Freedom → Showit

Why Choose Showit? Showit is the ideal choice for design freedom because you have 100% control without any coding required, and you still enjoy that seamless WordPress integration for powerful blogging and SEO.

It’s great when you’re setting up a portfolio for your service-based business, such as photography or graphic design.

Showit is geared toward visual-focused industries, such as designers or photographers, because of the way it simplifies setting up a portfolio and managing so many images.

It even gives you the benefit of creating separate mobile and desktop versions, so you show off your content in the best way possible for whatever device your visitors (aka potential customers) are using to look at it.

Things to Consider: Keep in mind that Showit has a monthly subscription cost, instead of a one-time purchase, and you’ll have limited e-commerce capabilities (so it’s not great if you’re running a huge store). It’s more focused on design than technical customization.

Best for WordPress Flexibility & Ease → Elementor

Why Choose Elementor? If you want that WordPress flexibility and ease (maybe you’re just a little overwhelmed by everything you can do with Showit), then your next best option is to use the Elementor website builder.

You'll find it works well with nearly any WordPress theme, and you can expand it with plugins and widgets for more functionality.

Things to Consider: You may slow down your site speed if too many elements are added.

You'll also find that some features require you to pay for Elementor Pro.

It’s worth keeping in mind that Elementor is about simplifying what you can do.

So you’re not going to have as much design freedom as you would have with Showit.

Best for Advanced Marketing & Agencies → Divi

Why Choose Divi? Marketing agencies should take a look at what Divi has to offer as a WordPress template.

Along with extensive design customization capabilities, Divi has built-in conversion optimization and marketing tools.

Unlike Elementor’s subscription model, it has a lifetime pricing option, so you don’t have to worry about ongoing payments. Plus, it makes it easy to manage many websites for all your individual clients.

Things to Consider: In some ways, Divi can feel “heavy” and slow if not optimized properly.

So be careful about how much you add to each page.

It’s less intuitive than Showit or Elementor if you’re a beginner; you should expect a bit of a learning curve based on the sheer number of features.

Best for Portfolio Sites → Simplice

Why Choose Simplice? When you’re creating a website to show off your portfolio, Simplice is an obvious answer. This theme is built specifically for designers with portfolios! It gives you fully customizable layouts, and its minimalistic design aesthetic puts the focus on your work. Plus, it’s a one-time purchase with no recurring fees.

Things to Consider: Simplice isn’t great for non-designers because it requires some technical skill to master.

There’s also limited support compared with a larger page builder.

If you aren’t focusing your site on a portfolio, it might not be a great fit for showing off what you have to offer.

Best for Performance-Focused Users → Astra or GeneratePress

Why Choose Astra or GeneratePress? If your biggest priority is performance, your best bet may be Astra or GeneratePress. Both are extremely lightweight and fast, so your website will work quickly and smoothly. They work well with page builders, yet also function without them if you prefer to go without. Astra and GeneratePress are highly customizable with a minimalist base design, so they make a good fit for a wide variety of uses, like bloggers, businesses, and developers.

Things to Consider: Although Astra and GeneratePress are built for performance, some of the customization takes a little extra effort (maybe even coding).

They also lack built-in page-building features. You’ll likely need to look at an upgrade to take advantage of some of their premium features.

The Final Verdict on Showit vs. WordPress

WordPress themes give you great options, particularly if you don’t think you’re ready for all the capabilities that using Showit in conjunction with WordPress would offer. 

There’s no perfect answer to the question of whether you should choose Showit vs. WordPress themes, or even if there’s a clear best website builder for creatives. Instead, you need to consider your needs, technical ability, and long-term site goals. With all of that in mind, you can choose the right platform for you.

If you’re curious about giving Showit a try (and who wouldn’t be?), you have a 14-day free trial with no strings attached. Consider getting started and seeing what you can do with full creative control!

Bigger isn’t always better, especially in the case of images you’re using online.

Take any photo or high-resolution graphic and you might notice that the size is a little bigger (or even a lot bigger) than your website can handle.

Using it as part of your web design means your website is likely to lag or just stop loading. So, what should you do?

Optimize that image!

Image optimization is simply shrinking the file size of an image without sacrificing its quality too much – so it still looks good but is going to help your website load MUCH faster.

And when you have a website that loads faster, you create a better user experience. Plus, it’s good for SEO, because search engines want to send people to websites that aren’t slow.

Consider the ways image optimization is crucial for your Core Web Vitals, the key performance metrics used by Google to assess user experience on a webpage:

•   Largest Contentful Paint (LCP): a measurement of how long it takes for the largest image on your website to load, which can be improved with optimized images
• · Cumulative Layout Shift (CLS): a measurement of how much the elements of a page shift as they load, which can be improved when an image has the proper height and width attributes
•   First Delay Input (FDI): a measurement of the delay between when you take an action, such as clicking a link or typing in a form, and the browser starting the process of that action, which can be improved when you don’t have large images your browser doesn’t have to focus on

In short, if you want to improve the overall speed and functionality of your website (and let’s be real, who wants to sit around and wait for a website to load?), then you need to optimize your images for the web. That’s easy enough to do when you’re working with the right tools.

Why Image Optimization Matters for Websites

Tech power is like human power in some ways, when you’re asking a lot of it, you have to expect it to work a little harder and move a little more slowly. Makes sense, right?

So when you’re putting a large high-resolution image file on your website, it’s almost like asking your website to lug a 100-pound weight around. It’s going to take a while for your website to get stuff done!

That’s why a website with a lot of large images won’t load quickly. It’s almost as if your website is trying to set a bunch of 100-pound weights in place. And when your website loads slowly, search engines perceive it as less user-friendly.

Search engines don’t want to direct traffic to websites people don’t want to use, so your website’s slow loading time could end up affecting its SEO and Google rankings.

That’s not great, because essentially those big beautiful images you thought looked so great on your website are actually the reason you’re not showing up in search results.

Worth noting: Search engines are doing what’s known as mobile-first indexing.

That means they’re giving higher rank to websites built for mobile devices.

It makes sense because most people are looking at websites on their phones these days.

But many websites are built for computer screens, not for phone screens. Part of image optimization means making your images responsive, so they adjust to the type of screen they’re being viewed on.

Features to Look for in Image Optimization Tools

You might be sitting here and reading all this with the thought, “Great! So, what am I supposed to do with all these high-res images?” Before you go overloading your website design, you can quickly and efficiently optimize all your images for the web with one of several of the optimization tools in 2025.

When you’re choosing a web optimization tool, look for one with the following features:

• Compression quality: You want a tool that is going to compress (i.e. shrink) your images via lossless compression, which reduces the file sizes without losing image data or quality, instead of lossy compression, in which some image data will be lost and the quality potentially diminished.
• Bulk processing capabilities: You don’t have the time to go through and compress each image individually, especially if you’re somebody who is working with lots of photos—we’re looking at you, photographers and your extensive galleries. You want a tool that lets you optimize images in bulk to save you some time.
• Support for modern image formats: When you’re choosing a tool, you should select one that’s able to handle image formats like WebP, AVIF, and JPEG XL.
• Integration with CMS platforms: Once you optimize your images, you’re going to need to upload them to your site, so choose an optimization tool that will work with platforms like WordPress and Shopify.
• Automation and AI-powered optimization: Remember how we talked about bulk optimization? Not every image needs to be optimized in the same way, so you want to find a tool that uses AI to determine specifically what needs to be done with each image and automates the task without your having to change any settings.

 Top Image Optimization Tools of 2025

Ready to optimize?

Great! You’ve got options when it comes to optimization—lots of options.

Alongside thinking about what features you need from an image optimization tool, think about what type of access you want to have.

Do you want something to simply use online via your internet browser? Or do you want something you can access through your website platform, or even from your computer desktop?

Consider these options:

Online Image Optimizers

These are the optimizers you can access directly through your internet browser by going to the website. They’re pretty straightforward, but they get the job done well enough.

You’ve got TinyPNG, which is a simple, effective tool for PNG and JPEG compression.

If you want to do advanced compression with various formats, try Compressor.io. And then for high-quality bulk images, there’s Kraken.io.

WordPress Plugins for Image Optimization

If you’re looking for the best WordPress image optimizer, consider a plug-in like ShortPixel or Smush for automated AI-powered optimization. Imagify is also a WordPress plug-in and it offers WebP conversion and fast compression.

Desktop & Developer Tools

For anyone working directly from their desktop, RIOT (Radical Image Optimization Tool) could be a great option—it’s free Windows software that lets you compress images quickly and efficiently.

Mac users can try ImageOptim, an open-source tool for lossless compression. Finally, there’s Squoosh by Google, a Browser-based tool with detailed compression controls.

AI & Next-Gen Optimization Tools

When it comes to AI and next-gen options, consider working with VanceAI Image Compressor for AI-powered image enhancement and compression or Cloudinary for Cloud-based image management with automation.

Best Practices for Image Optimization in 2025

Before you move full-steam ahead on optimizing your images, there's some best practices you should keep in mind.

First, be sure to choose the right file format for your images.

WebP offers better compression than JPEG while maintaining high quality and supports transparency, making it ideal for web performance.

AVIF provides even higher compression efficiency and better quality at lower file sizes than WebP but has slightly less browser support, whereas JPEG is widely compatible but results in larger files with lower efficiency compared to both WebP and AVIF.

Second, take advantage of lazy loading.

This is a technique that delays the loading of non-essential images until they are needed, improving page speed and performance. Instead of loading all images immediately when a page loads, it loads only the ones visible in the viewport and fetches others as the user scrolls.

Be sure you leverage CDNs, aka Content Delivery Networks, for faster global delivery. These improve website speed by distributing your images and other assets across multiple global servers, ensuring faster delivery to users regardless of their location.

Finally, be sure to maintain a balance between quality and compression.

Yes, you want your images to be smaller in size, but not so much that they compromise the quality of the image.

If the picture loses too much data, it becomes grainy and pixelated. Be sure to use an optimization tool that is going to give you compressed images that still look great and reflect your professionalism. Otherwise, what’s the point, right?

Main Takeaway

Optimizing your images for your website is a crucial step that improves your website speed (good for SEO), but it’s important to take the care you need so you don’t end up with reduced quality.

The best approach? Experiment with different tools based on your website’s needs and find the one that feels the most user-friendly while giving you the best results.

If you want to see how those optimized images look on a beautifully designed Showit website? Don’t forget that you have a 14-day free trial waiting for you with no commitment necessary. Sign up and get started!

Branding, you’ve heard that word before, you may think it’s a logo and a few colors.

But, did you know that YOU also have a personal brand?

How you carry yourself and how you interact with people all impact your personal brand reputation.

Now, maybe you already have lots of connections and a good reputation, well done!

If you don’t yet, could a personal website be what you need to stand out? Let’s find out, shall we?

Why You Need a Personal Website

Whether you're looking for a job, a creative pro of some kind, a freelancer, or an entrepreneur, a website gives you control of your online presence. 

It lets you tell your story in a way that social media profiles and traditional resumes simply can’t.

As we think through this, there are about 5 big benefits to having a personal website.

1. It Helps Establish a Personal Brand

Ever Google yourself?

The reality is recruiters, potential clients, or even potential friends probably search your name before ever reaching out.

Imagine if they were greeted by a website that would explain from you, who you are, and your mission along with a showcase of work you’ve recently done.

 Talk about a good first impression.

2. It Opens Doors for Career Growth

A personal website is a game-changer for job seekers and pros trying to advance in their careers. 

Unlike a resume, a website allows you to:

• Showcase work samples, projects, or case studies.
• Provide more depth on your skills, experience, and achievements.
• Include testimonials from employers, clients, or colleagues.
• Make it easy for recruiters to contact you with a dedicated contact page.

For example, a videographer with a website showcasing recent work is far more likely to land interviews than one with just a LinkedIn profile.

3. It Helps Expand Your Professional Network

Your personal website can be a networking tool to help you connect with like-minded folks, industry leaders, or even potential clients. 

For example, a marketing professional who regularly publishes blog posts on industry trends can build authority and attract invitations for guest posts, speaking engagements, or consulting opportunities.

4. It Gives You Opportunities for Monetization & Passive Income

If you’ve ever wanted to make money online, a personal website can be the foundation of a profitable side business or even (with some time and intentionality) a full-time income stream. 

Depending on your interests and what you know, you could:

• Start a blog and monetize it through ads, affiliate marketing, or sponsored content.
• Sell digital products like e-books, templates, or online courses.
• Offer services such as consulting, design, writing, or coaching.

For example, a graphic designer who showcases their portfolio on their website can also sell design templates, generating passive income.

5. It Serves As a Creative Outlet

Business and professionalism aside, a website could just be a space to share your passions, hobbies, and creative projects with the world.

Whether it’s photography, music, or writing, having your own corner of the internet allows you to create something meaningful and unique.

For example, a travel enthusiast who documents their adventures on a blog can eventually grow an audience and land partnerships with travel brands.

What Type of Personal Website Should You Start

 Before building a site, think about its purpose. 

Choosing the type of site to build depends on your goals, career, and the kind of content you want to create.

Here are a few common types of personal websites, each with unique advantages.

1. Blog

Starting a blog is perfect for folks who want to share their expertise, interests, or personal experiences with the world. 

Whether you’re passionate about tech, travel, or whatever it may be, a blog lets you establish authority in your field while engaging with readers.

How to Start a Blog

• Choose a Niche – Focus on a single topic you’re knowledgeable about and write content about it
• Pick a Platform – Showit is a great option 
• Create a Content Plan – Outline post ideas and develop a publishing schedule.
• Optimize for SEO – Use keyword research to help your posts rank on Google.
• Engage & Promote – Share your content on social media, forums, and email lists. 

The big thing to remember is that writing good content that speaks to real people will help your posts rank higher in Google search results.

2. A Portfolio

 A portfolio website is good for showcasing creative or professional work. 

Think of graphic designers, photographers, writers, developers, or filmmakers.

This is a space that allows these creators to highlight their best projects and attract clients or employers.

How to Build a Portfolio Website

• Select a Platform – Showit is excellent for visually-driven portfolios, 
• Curate Your Best Work – Showcase your best work rather than uploading everything.
• Tell the Story Behind Your Work – Talk about each project’s process, challenges, and results.
• Include Testimonials & Case Studies – Add credibility with client or employer reviews.
• Make It Easy to Contact You – Have a clear call-to-action, such as “Hire Me” or “Let’s Work Together.”

3. A Personal Resume

A personal resume site is a modern way to showcase your skills and experience beyond the limits of your standard paper resume.

 It gives you a space to elaborate on projects, showcase work you’ve done, and just make a top-notch first impression.

What to Include on a Resume Site

• Professional Bio – A short summary of who you are and what you do.
• Work Experience & Projects – Highlight key roles, achievements, and relevant projects.
• Skills & Certifications – Showcase specialized knowledge with industry-recognized certifications.
• Testimonials & Endorsements – Good words from former employers, clients, or colleagues.
• Contact & Downloadable Resume – Make it easy for recruiters to reach you.

4. Personal Brand

If you’re building a personal brand, a website helps you establish authority in your industry, build an audience, and position yourself as a true thought leader.

These websites often include a blog, email sign-up, and links to speaking engagements, books, or courses.

How to Build a Personal Brand Website

• Define Your Niche & Target Audience – Are you a leadership coach? A motivational speaker? A fitness expert?
• Develop a Compelling About Page – Tell your story and what makes you unique.
• Add an Email Sign-Up Form – Grow your audience by offering valuable content.
• Create High-Quality Content – Blog posts, videos, or resources that showcase your expertise.
• Link to Your Social Media – Connect your website with LinkedIn, YouTube, or Instagram.

Pro tip, linking to social media is an important part of a persona brand site, check out this article on where to put social links on your website.

How to Build a Personal Website Step-by-Step

Building a website is easier than ever with drag and drop tools like Showit.

But it still takes a bit of planning.

Whether you're starting a blog, portfolio, or resume site, following these steps will help you create a polished and pro-status site that truly represents you.

Step 1. Choose A Website Platform

This is the platform where you do the designing and publish your site.

You’ve probably seen us mention Showit a few times, we’re a bit biased.

But for good reason, Showit is a true drag-and-drop website builder that gives you complete creative control over the look and feel of your site without massic tech headaches. 

We also have some pretty talented people on our support team who can help you solve any issue and answer all your website questions. 

You can also try Showit free for 14 days here if you’re interested.

All of that said though, platforms like Squarespace, Wix, and WordPress are also good.

Most of these tools offer free trials so go try a few of them to see which one feels intuitive and easy for you.

Step 2. Choose Your Domain Name

Your domain name is kind of like your digital identity, and choosing the right one is key.

How to Choose a Domain Name

• Use Your Name – If it's available, a domain like yourname.com is good for personal branding.
• Keep It Simple – Avoid long or complicated names, the shorter, the better.
• Consider Keywords – If for some reason your own name isn’t available, keywords in your domain is a good option (e.g.,  (johnsmithdeisgn.com).
• Use the Right Extension – (.com) is the most widely recognized, but .me, .net, and .co are alternatives.

Where to Buy Domains

You can purchase a domain from various providers, including

• Namecheap
• Google Domains (now owned by Squarespace)
• GoDaddy

Domain prices usually range from as low as $20 all the way up to thousands of dollars if it’s a popular domain name like socks.com or weddingphotographer.com.

How much you want to spend is up to you, but if sarahlane.com is $800 and sarahlane.net is $40, well…….uh, you decide.

Hosting Options

If you're using an all-in-one builder like Showit, Squarespace, or Wix, hosting is included. 

However, if you're using WordPress.org you'll need to choose separate hosting:

• SiteGround – Reliable hosting with decent customer support.
• Bluehost – Budget-friendly, beginner-friendly option for WordPress users.
• Cloudways – Best for performance and scalability

Step 3. Start Designing Your Personal Website

If you just read this headline and got stressed, pause and take a breath.

Ok, the good news is tools like Showit make it possible to design a website without needing a 4-year design degree.

In fact, most website builder tools make it accessible for anyone to design and launch a quality website with not a lot of experience.

But there are a few things you should think through during the process.

A great website design doesn’t just look good, it enhances the user experience and keeps people engaged.

Key Principles of a Strong Website Design

• Clean & Simple Layout – Avoid clutter; guide visitors with a clear structure.
• Readable Typography – Choose professional, easy-to-read fonts.
• Mobile Responsiveness – Ensure your site looks great on all devices.
• Fast Loading Speed – Optimize images and keep the design lightweight.

Try Using Templates

Templates can help you get a professional-looking site quickly without needing custom design skills.

All you’ll need to do is add your own images, copy, and information about projects you’ve worked on.

The best part, Showit already has some pretty sweet templates designed with podcasters, photographers, bloggers, and other creative pros needs in mind.

If you are more design-savvy you can customize the template as much as you want.

But, if you value simplicity and speed, Showit makes it easy to drag, drop, and launch with relative ease.

Step 4. Create Your Essential Pages

No matter what kind of personal website you build, there are a few key pages that every site should have:

1. Home Page

This page should instantly communicate who you are and what visitors can expect.

Remember to keep it simple

Feature a hero photo, a short bio, and a clear call to action (e.g., “Read My Blog” or “View My Work”). Something that gets people to engage with other areas of your site.

2. About Page

This is where you tell your story and showcase your experience and what drives you in a compelling way. 

A big thing to remember here is to keep it relatable, people connect with stories, not just achievements alone.

3. Portfolio or Blog

If your site is a portfolio, highlight your best work with case studies or testimonials.

But maybe you don’t yet have any reviews or testimonials, that’s fine too, just focus on showcasing what you consider to be your best work.

If it’s a blog, organize posts into relevant categories and optimize for SEO.

Here’s a pro tip for ya, If you're a job seeker, you might replace a “Portfolio” with a “Projects” page featuring past work, contributions, and case studies.

4. Contact Page

Don’t make visitors hunt for your contact info!

Include a contact form, email, and social media links.

Pro Tip, add a calendar booking tool (like Calendly) for easy scheduling.

Best Tools & Resources for Building a Personal Website

Building a personal website takes the right set of tools to help it look polished and function smoothly. 

Here are a few tools for website creation, SEO, design, and email marketing.

1. Website Builders

Choosing the right website builder depends on your goals and technical comfort level. Here are some of the top options:

• Showit – Great for creatives and personal brands, featuring a fully customizable drag-and-drop interface with WordPress blogging integration.
• Squarespace – Good for small business sites, it has modern templates and built-in features.
• WordPress – Perfect for bloggers and advanced users who want full control over customization, scalability and who may have some understanding of HTML: and CSS.
• Wix – This is the beginner friendly option with a simple drag-and-drop editor and free plan.

2. SEO (Search Engine Optimization) Tools

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) helps drive organic traffic to your website. Here are essential tools to improve your site's visibility.

• Google Analytics – A free tool to track website traffic, visitor behavior, and page performance.
• Google Search Console – A tool to help monitor how your site appears in Google search results and provides indexing insights.
• Ahrefs – A tool you can use for keyword research, backlink tracking, and competitive analysis.
• Ubersuggest – A beginner-friendly SEO tool that helps with keyword research and content optimization.

Pro Tip: If you’re new to SEO, start with Google Search Console and Ubersuggest to find keywords and track your search performance.

3. Graphic Design Tools

Having good design will enhance your personal website’s look and user experience. 

Here’s some great tools to get you started:

• Canva – An easy-to-use design tool for creating graphics, social media images, and branding elements.
• Adobe Portfolio – Ideal for showcasing photography or creative work, with direct integration into Adobe Creative Cloud.
• Figma – Best for UI/UX designers and those creating wireframes or detailed layouts.
• Unsplash – A free stock photo website with high-quality images for use on your website.
• Site Palette – A tool to give you ideas on what colors to use for your website.

4. Email Marketing Tools

Even if you’re just starting, an email list helps you build an audience and keep visitors engaged. Here are some top email marketing tools:

• Kit – Ideal for bloggers and personal brands, featuring automation, email sequences, and landing pages.
• Flodesk – Great for creatives, offering beautifully designed email templates and simple automation.
• Mailchimp – A solid choice for small businesses and beginners with an easy drag-and-drop email editor.
• MailerLite – A user-friendly email marketing tool that includes automation and landing page creation.

5. Website Performance Monitoring

• Crazy Egg – Provides heatmaps and user behavior tracking to see where visitors click on your site.
• Hotjar – Offers session recordings and heatmaps to better understand user experience.
• PageSpeed Insights – Helps analyze and improve your website’s loading speed and performance

Go Get Started

Is a website absolutely essential? No, it isn’t.

But if you want to stand out above the competition for jobs or freelance projects, it will take you to the next level.

Have you ever applied for a job and seen the section where they want you to drop it your website URL?

Most people probably drop in their LinkedIn, but if you had a site showcasing your experience, you’ve already got a leg up.

If you need some help getting started, head on over to Showit and start a 14-day free trial to see what kind of site you can create.

Go try it for yourself!

Starting a new website can feel overwhelming. There are so many choices to make, from colors and fonts to layouts and features… 

But here's a secret that might make you feel better: most amazing websites start with templates!

That's right – even professional website designers often begin with templates as their foundation. Using a template doesn't make your site any less creative or unique. In fact, it gives you a professionally-designed starting point that you can customize to make completely your own.

Think about it: so many things start from templates, not just website designs. There’s absolutely no shame in taking an amazing framework and making it your own! 

So, now that we've cleared that up, let's talk about how to find the perfect template for your business!

Start with Strategy: What Does Your Website Need to Do?

Before you start browsing through all those gorgeous templates, take a moment to get clear on what your website actually needs to accomplish. This step is crucial but often overlooked!

WHAT'S YOUR PRIMARY OBJECTIVE?

Every effective website has a clear goal. Is yours to: 

•  Book client services?
• Sell products?
• Build an email list?
•  Showcase your portfolio?
• Educate your audience?
• Generate leads?

Your primary objective should influence which template you choose. 

For example, if you're focused on booking client services, you'll want a template with prominent call-to-action buttons and an easy path to your Contact page, and enough space to write about your services.

If you’re focused on selling products, you’ll need to make sure your template comes with a Shop page and a Product page.

If you’re focused on growing your email list through your site, you’ll need to make sure your template comes with a Subscribe page, and a Freebie page.

FUNCTIONALITY MATTERS MORE THAN YOU THINK!

A beautiful template that doesn't function well is like a sports car without an engine – looks great, but won't get you where you need to go!

Consider which special features you need: 

• Blog functionality (do you plan to publish content regularly?)
• Sales pages (need high-converting pages for offerings?)
•  Shop integration (selling products?)
• Service showcase (displaying your offerings clearly?)
• Portfolio galleries (showing off your work?)
• Lead magnets (growing your email list?)

Make sure the template you choose either includes these features or can be easily customized to add them.

WHO IS YOUR TARGET AUDIENCE?

Your website isn't for everyone – it's for your specific ideal clients or customers. Think about: 

• What aesthetic would appeal to them?
• How tech-savvy are they?
• Do they prefer minimalist designs or more detailed ones?
• What information do they need to make a decision?

A template that appeals to luxury wedding clients will look very different from one targeting tech startups. Choose accordingly!

Once you’ve considered what you need the template FOR, it’s time to think about aesthetics… 

Your website's visual style should align with your brand personality.

Showit templates come in a variety of styles to match your unique vibe, like these.

Bold

Perfect for brands with strong personalities that aren't afraid to stand out. Bold templates often feature striking color contrasts, large typography, and eye-catching elements.

Dark

Sophisticated and dramatic, dark templates create a premium feel and make colors pop. Ideal for luxury brands, photographers, and creative professionals.

Editorial

Inspired by magazine layouts, editorial templates feature elegant typography and thoughtfully arranged content blocks. Great for content-heavy sites that need to maintain visual interest.

Elegant

Refined and timeless, elegant templates use subtle animations, delicate typography, and plenty of white space. Perfect for brands that want to convey sophistication.

Fun

Playful and energetic, fun templates incorporate whimsical elements, bright colors, and dynamic layouts. Ideal for brands with a lighthearted personality.

Light

Airy and inviting, light templates use plenty of white space to create a fresh, clean aesthetic. Great for brands wanting to convey simplicity and approachability.

Minimal

Less is more! Minimal templates focus on essential elements only, creating space for your content to breathe. Perfect for modern brands with a streamlined approach.

Modern

Contemporary and on-trend, modern templates incorporate current design elements while maintaining timeless appeal. Suitable for forward-thinking brands.

Your template can’t just be pretty, though — don’t forget to consider these important factors, too…

While a beautiful design catches the eye, there are practical elements that will make or break your website experience. Here's what to look for beyond just pretty colors and layouts:

ENOUGH SPACE FOR COPY

Templates vary dramatically in how much room they allocate for text. If you're in a text-heavy industry (like coaching, consulting, or education), you'll need templates with generous copy areas.

Look carefully at:

• Headline length limitations
• Paragraph spacing and width
• Number of content blocks per page

Too little copy space means you'll either need to edit your content ruthlessly or spend time reworking the template structure.

IMAGE REQUIREMENTS 

Each template has its own “appetite” for images. Some require dozens of professional photos to look complete, while others work beautifully with just a few key images.

Consider

• How many quality images do you currently have?
• Do you have access to professional photography?
• Are the image spaces the right orientation for your photos? (Portrait vs. landscape)
• Do you need special types of images (like flatlays or specific backdrops)?

If a template calls for 20+ hero images but you only have a handful of professional photos, you might struggle to make it work.

NAVIGATION STRUCTURE

Different templates organize information in different ways. Pay attention to:

• How many menu items the template supports
• Whether dropdown menus are available
• If the template includes secondary navigation options
• Mobile menu functionality

Your site structure should make intuitive sense for your specific audience and content needs.

PAGE LOAD SPEED

Beautiful doesn't have to mean slow! Look for templates that:

• Use optimized image blocks
• Don't rely on excessive animations
• Have a clean, efficient code structure

Remember, every second of load time increases your bounce rate significantly.

ACCESSIBILITY

Make sure your chosen template supports:

• Sufficient color contrast for readability
• Properly structured headings for screen readers
• Focus indicators for keyboard navigation
• Alternative text capability for images

An accessible site isn't just inclusive—it's better for SEO too!

Industry Matters: Templates Designed for Your Field

One of the best things about Showit's template marketplace is that many templates are specifically designed with certain industries in mind. This means they include pages and features typical for that business type.

Browse templates in categories like: 

• Beauty
• Coaching & Consulting
•  Content Creator
• Event Professional
• Fitness
• Health & Wellness
• Marketing Services
• Online Service Providers
• Photography
• Podcast
• Portfolio & Showcase
• Wedding Vendors
• Virtual Assistant

And so many more!

Industry-specific templates save you time because they're already structured around the typical client journey for your business type.

What if you can’t find the “perfect” match?

Don't worry! That’s the beauty of designing on Showit: every template is fully customizable. You're never locked into a specific design.

If you can't find a template specifically for your business type, choose one with a layout and style you love, then customize it to fit your needs. You can change everything from colors and fonts to the entire page structure!

This is why starting with a template doesn't limit your creativity – it just gives you a professional foundation to build upon.

Your website will always be evolving as you do — and templates give you room to grow!

Your business will grow and change over time, and your website should evolve with it. The good news? Showit makes it easy to add new pages, sections, and features as you need them.

Start with what you need now, knowing you can expand later: 

•  Launch with core pages first (Home, About, Services, Contact) 
• Add a blog when you're ready to start publishing content
• Create sales pages as you develop new offerings
• Build out your portfolio as you complete more project

Your website is never “finished” – it's a living, breathing representation of your evolving business.

Resources For Finding Your Perfect Template

Showit Design Market

The official marketplace features templates from verified Showit Design Partners who meet Showit's quality standards. You'll find options for every industry and style preference.

Shop Add-ons

Once you've selected your template, consider enhancing it with add-ons like specialized page layouts, custom sections, or unique elements that can take your site to the next level.

Remember: Templates are just the beginning!

The most important thing to remember is that your template is just your starting point. What makes your website truly unique is how you customize it with your brand elements, copy, images, and personal touches.

Some of the most beautiful, effective websites on the internet started as templates – including sites built by professional designers! The key is choosing a solid foundation that you can transform into something that feels authentically yours.

So go ahead and find that perfect template. Your dream website is waiting to be built!

As a creative, you know you do great work. (Duh.) 

The question is: What’s the best way for you to show off your work online, so potential clients can find you (and get a sense of what you do)?

We live in an amazing time for creatives with lots of options when it comes to choosing the best platform for portfolios. 

So how do you pick the right one?

You know — one that’s easy to use, searchable, and professional… and will showcase your stuff in the most impressive way possible.

Today, we’re comparing Showit vs. Behance, two top options for showcasing your portfolio.

Each comes with its own set of pros and cons, depending on your needs.

Overview of Creative Portfolio Platforms

Let’s start by going over what Showit and Behance are.

Even though they’re both options for showing off your portfolio, we’re not exactly comparing apples to apples here. 

Let the creative portfolio website comparison begin!

Showit

Showit is a typical website builder (well, actually, it’s anything but typical — you can do much more with it than you can with other builders). 

Showit is a platform that lets you design a website with full drag-and-drop creative control. That means you’re able to put together a portfolio page on your site using tools that let you customize it exactly how you want it to look. 

If we may say so, Showit is perfect if you value artistic freedom and want a unique online presence.

Behance

Behance isn’t exactly a website builder, though it does give you a chance to show off your creative work. 

Think of Behance as more of a social network.

You can show off your projects using structured templates — no need to create a full-fledged website.

It's all about simplifying the process of sharing your work, especially because the platform (which is owned by Adobe) comes with a built-in community of creatives who love to check out each other’s work.

Design Flexibility

Because you’re creative (or so we’re assuming if you’re reading this), you probably want some level of control over the way your portfolio is designed. 

How much flexibility do you have with these two creative portfolio platforms?

Showit

Seriously. Showit’s drag-and-drop feature lets you customize your site to look exactly how you want, without any coding required (though if you’re advanced enough, you can add custom CSS). 

Because the design control is responsive, you can even adjust the mobile and desktop versions separately.

Behance

Behance is geared toward presenting individual projects in a structured format. That might appeal to you if you prefer a simple approach to portfolio presentation. 

That said, Behance is a template-based platform, so your layout customization is much more limited. 

Showit vs. Behance: Ease of Use

You’re busy. You’re interested in focusing on your creative projects… not struggling to figure out how to use a new platform so you can publish a portfolio. (Right?)

So, it pays to figure out how easy these creative portfolio websites are to use.

Showit

Remember how we mentioned that drag-and-drop editor? It provides intuitive control over your website's design, so many designers find it very easy to use.

That said, mastering Showit’s full capabilities might involve a learning curve, especially when setting up hosting and domain for a standalone site.

Behance

Behance is where simplicity reigns. Uploading projects is straightforward, with very minimal effort beyond creating your account. 

There's no need to worry about hosting or domain setup, making Behance incredibly user-friendly from the get-go.

Showit vs. Behance: Hosting and Domain

Once you’ve set up your portfolio, you’ll want to know if others on the internet will be able to find it. 

That’s why it’s important to consider hosting and domain options with these two portfolio platforms. Here’s what you’re looking at with each.

Showit

A big benefit of Showit is that you have self-hosting capabilities with seamless domain integration. 

That’s sort of a fancy way of saying you get a branded online presence — including a custom domain (though we should note that website hosting requires a subscription).

Behance

Again, here’s where Behance is all about simplicity. 

Your portfolio is hosted on Adobe’s platform, so there’s no need for (or even option of) domain customization. You just get a Behance URL (i.e., behance.net/username) instead of a custom domain.

Audience & Discoverability

While we’re talking about making your portfolio available on the internet for people to see, let’s talk about your audience and how easy it is for them to find you. 

If your portfolio is just floating out there in cyberspace, with the occasional visit from somebody who has your direct link, you might not get the business you want. 

Here’s what these platforms have to offer in the discoverability regard.

Showit

Showit offers robust SEO capabilities and supports integration with social media. So although driving traffic requires you to do some proactive personal marketing efforts, that work can pay off in a big way.

Showit is ideal if you’re aiming to build a distinct online presence. In order for that presence to be known, you need to be doing a little bit of work yourself. Start researching SEO, building a social media platform, and pushing your links out to as many people as possible. 

When used to your advantage, the built-in SEO capabilities with Showit have the power to make your portfolio far more visible than if you were on a separately hosted platform.

Behance

Since it’s part of Adobe's creative network, Behance offers built-in exposure opportunities within its community. 

Projects can gain visibility organically through features and collaborations, making it a go-to for networking and showcasing your work to a broad audience. It’s simple, but bear in mind that you’re limited to the network that’s already on Behance.

Showit vs. Behance: Integration with Other Tools

Your portfolio is only one small piece of your online presence. You’ll want to think about how it will integrate with other tools and platforms you use, such as your blog or your online shop.

Here’s how Showit vs. Behance stack up when it comes to integration with other tools.

Showit

Showit emphasizes seamlessness when it comes to external tools. 

In other words, you can add a WordPress blog or a Shopify e-commerce site to your Showit website without any way of telling that it’s from another source. That’s how smoothly these integrations fit into your website design.

Behance

If you’re creating your projects using Adobe software, you’re covered. Behance integrates with Adobe Creative Cloud apps, allowing seamless sharing of those projects within your portfolio. 

However, Behance lacks extensive integration with external tools beyond media embedding. So if you’re hoping to integrate your Behance portfolio with other tools, you may be out of luck.

Showit vs. Behance: Pricing

Of course, it might not matter as much how great a portfolio platform is if it’s out of your budget. Affordability is a big consideration for creatives.

Here’s a high-level overview of the pricing plan options offered by Showit vs. Behance.

Showit

Showit has plans starting at just $16 per month, though you can move up to one of three higher plans, such as the Plus plan or Advanced plan, depending on your needs and your budget. 

The Advanced plan, starting at $99 per month, gives you the capability of doing everything from selling digital content subscriptions to seeing detailed sales funnel analytics. It costs more, but it gives you a lot of power to push your business forward.

Behance

Behance is free to use, making it accessible for all users, though you can upgrade to Behance Pro for $9.99 per month. The Pro option gives you access to features like customized profile layouts, advanced analytics, and exclusive freelance opportunities.

Showit vs. Behance: Who’s the Best Fit For This?

Clearly, there are pluses and minuses to Showit vs. Behance, depending on your needs. 

So when you consider all of this info, you probably have to wonder: Which of these platforms is the best fit specifically for you and what you do?

Showit

We always say Showit is the ideal fit for creatives because it gives you the complete creative control you want when designing a branded website. 

You’ll be able to create a standalone portfolio site that’s visually unique and fits with your online presence.

Behance

If you’re not looking to deal with the stress of an entire website design, Behance lets you have that vibrant creative community you seek and show them your projects without the trouble of anything you don’t want. 

You’ll gain exposure through an established network, though it’s harder to expand beyond that network if you want or need to.

 Try It Yourself

Intrigued by what Showit has to offer? We don’t blame you. 

See for yourself how our platform gives you endless options for creative freedom. We think once you start creating, you’re going to love it. (Not that we’re biased or anything…)

Why not try Showit out for yourself? You get a 14-day free trial with no strings attached.

Go give it a try!

And if you want to know how Showit compares to other tools, check out this article on Showit vs. Canva.