While you may assume that B2B and B2C websites are generally the same as they’re both trying to sell something, you’ll quickly find that there are some stark differences that need to be accounted for. More importantly, these differences need to be understood to ensure the website is designed appropriately to attract the right audience and achieve success!
So, if you’re curious to know the difference between a B2B and B2C website, here they are:
1. Different Target Audiences
The main difference between B2B and B2C is the target audience. While both are typically visiting the website for a reason, B2C is usually the user who is actually interested in the product, whereas B2B users are typically visiting to learn more about your business, services, or products.
For example, if you’re a catering company or a wedding planner, you’ll notice that your clients are interested in your service, whereas a B2C website visitor is interested in actually purchasing the product they’re viewing.
2. Different Levels Of Engagement
Also, B2B and B2C sites should have different levels of engagement. While B2C sites are expected to be interactive, B2B sites can include some basic interaction. For example, a B2C site would be expected to include an online chat or email form for purchasing the product, while a B2B site would have FAQs and a contact form for collecting information.
Having a different level of engagement for the website, especially for the B2B audience, is a great way to attract the right users and keep them on the site longer to increase the chance of converting them.
3. Different Uses Of The Website
The main difference between B2B and B2C websites also lies in the way that they’re used. While B2C sites are expected to be used to find and purchase products, B2B sites are expected to be used to learn more about the company and their products.
For example, let’s say you’re a marketing agency and you’re hoping to attract new clients. You might have an informational website that includes your business profile, portfolio, and ways to get in touch with you. This is definitely a site that’s expected to have a B2B use.
4. Different Levels Of Branding
One of the biggest differences between B2B and B2C is the amount of branding on the site. You’ll find that B2C sites need to have a ton of branding on the site, while B2B sites can be a bit toned down.
For example, if your B2C website is a makeup store, you’ll be expected to include a lot of branding in your design. You’ll need to have your logo front and centre, your brand colours, and your name at the top of the website.
However, when it comes to B2B, it’s all about your logo, name, and your image. You don’t want to be super aggressive with your branding, or it may turn users off.
5. Different Styles Of Design
B2B and B2C sites also need to be designed differently. For example, one big difference is that you’ll need to be very thorough in your explanations when it comes to a B2B site. This is because your users want to learn more about your business, so you need to make sure you’re providing them with the information they need to make an informed decision.
However, on a B2C site, you’re expected to have a streamlined design and very little information about you. Why? Because your user is interested in the product, not finding out about your company.
Conclusion
While B2B and B2C may seem like they’re the same, they’re actually very different. There are a ton of aspects that need to be considered when it comes to a B2B website, and you’ll need to make sure that you’re catering to the right audience and using the site in the appropriate way to keep them there and convert them!
Lethal is a high-quality website design company offering expertly-designed websites that maximise lead generation, conversions, and more! If you’re looking for website design in Perth, reach out to us today.
