You built a website, spent money, added product photos, wrote the “About Us” section, but your customers still prefer placing orders via DMs on Instagram, WhatsApp, or TikTok.
A frustrated business owner on TikTok said, “My customers always DM me to place orders, even though I spent a lot on my small business website.”
This is a shared struggle for many owners trying to increase website traffic and improve online store conversion. But why is this happening, and more importantly, how can you fix it with the right digital marketing strategy and online store optimization?
Here are the top reasons people are ignoring your website, and what to do about them:
1. Your Website Isn’t Easy to Use
If your site is slow, cluttered, or not mobile-friendly, people will avoid it, even if it looks great on desktop.
Solutions:
- Test your website on your phone.
- Ensure it loads in under 3 seconds (use Google PageSpeed Insights).
- Simplify your checkout process (fewer clicks, less confusion).
- Use clear, readable fonts and avoid clutter.
2. Your Site Doesn’t Build Trust
If your site has no testimonials, human presence, or visible return policy, people are more comfortable ordering via DM, where it feels personal.
Solutions:
- Add real customer reviews and testimonials.
- Use friendly, conversational copy, not robotic words.
- Display trust signals like payment security badges, return policies, and social proof.
3. You Are Not Creating Awareness
If you are not actively driving people to your website, they won’t just show up. Most of your audience is on social media, so that’s where your traffic strategy should start.
Solutions:
- Add your website link to your social bios.
- Post product links regularly in your content.
- Replace “DM to order” with “Shop now via the website.”
- Use link-in-bio tools like Linktree or Stan Store.
4. There’s No Urgency or Incentive
If your site doesn’t offer something special, people won’t feel a reason to use it over DMs.
Solutions:
- Run limited-time offers or flash sales exclusively on your website.
- Offer free shipping, early access, or digital freebies in exchange for site visits.
- Add a countdown timer or “only 3 left in stock” indicator.
5. You Haven’t Made It a Habit (For You or Your Customers)
If you keep processing orders manually in DMs, your audience will follow your lead. You are unconsciously training them to bypass your website.
Solutions:
- Start directing all orders to the website, even if it feels inconvenient at first.
- Remove the “DM to order” option gradually.
- Be consistent and repetitive with CTAs like “Place your order via our website today.”
6. You Hired the Wrong Designer
Sometimes, the issue isn’t just strategy, it is execution. If your site looks outdated, lacks clear structure, or is hard to navigate, it won’t convert.
Solutions:
- Don’t just hire the cheapest designer; look for professionals who understand both design and conversion strategy.
- Prioritize user experience, not just aesthetics.
- Schedule a site review before launching.
Let’s Make Your Website Work for You
Your website should be the most profitable part of your business, not an expensive placeholder.
At Techpluxx, we are passionate about helping Nigerian business owners stay informed, make smarter digital decisions, and grow confidently.
Do you have thoughts or questions about your website struggles? Leave a comment, share this post with another business owner, or follow Techpluxx for more insights.
