Skip to content

"Start with Why" - How Much Does a Website Cost Is the Wrong Question

Source: https://www.wte.net/How-Much-Does-a-Website-Cost-Is-the-Wrong-Question-%E2%80%93-Simon-Says-Start-with-Why
Date: June 2022
Author: Martin W Smith

WTE Solutions discovered through SEO research that many people search for website pricing information, including "How much does it cost to build a website?" and similar queries. However, the article argues this is the wrong question to ask.

Core Concept: People Buy You

The post references Simon Sinek's influential work on the "Golden Circle" and his philosophy that "The goal is not to do business with everyone who needs what you have. The goal is to do business with people who believe what you believe."

Sinek's key insight is that emotional connections drive purchasing decisions, not logic alone. The limbic brain handles feelings like trust and loyalty, while the neocortex processes rational thought. The Golden Circle divides human decision-making into:

  • What: Rational, analytical thinking
  • How & Why: Emotional drivers of behavior

Joining vs. Buying

The distinction between purchasing and joining is crucial. People don't simply buy products—they align with companies sharing their beliefs. Apple customers, for example, join because the company challenges the status quo, not because of feature specifications.

"Sinek Wrecks"

WTE defines "Sinek wrecks" as websites built on platforms like WordPress or Shopify that fail because their content lacks passion and authentic belief. Most problems stem from companies relying on features and benefits rather than communicating genuine purpose.

About Page Importance

The About page is identified as the most critical page on any website. It must authentically communicate beliefs, passion, and values. Inconsistency between what a site claims and demonstrates creates confusion that prevents customer engagement.

Community Building: The 1-9-90 Rule

Building online communities requires understanding participation patterns:

  • 1% contribute when properly asked and recognized
  • 9% share content
  • 90% consume content

Effective engagement strategies include:

  • Creating contributor profile pages
  • Following and engaging contributors on social media
  • Asking questions to encourage interaction
  • Enabling comments
  • Providing multiple contact methods
  • Responding faithfully to all communication

Closing Question

The post concludes by asking readers: "What is your company's why?" with an invitation to respond via email.