It’s a simple yes or no question: Does your small business have a website? Everyone who answers “no” needs to buckle up – things might get a little bumpy!
In short, all small businesses need a website. It doesn’t matter what your company has to offer or what product or service you’re selling; having a website isn’t just necessary – it’s crucial if you want your small business to be successful.
For starters, having your own website gives you a little something known as “control.” With a website, you will have control over your company’s brand, appearance, and overall message. Basically, you can determine how the public – i.e. potential clients / customers – views your business.
Now before we get too far ahead of ourselves, you may argue you already have an online presence thanks to Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. While these social media platforms are great for marketing your company, they don’t grant you full control; you still have to play by their rules and designs. Not to mention, the algorithms and policies of these sites are constantly changing, which can be a real headache.
93% of shoppers say online reviews do impact their purchasing decisions
Not only will a website allow you to have control over how your small business is digitally presented to the public, but it will also quickly and easily showcase your products or services, appear in Google searches, and most importantly, compete with competitors.
It’s important to acknowledge that when a consumer begins the process of shopping for a product or service, the search often begins online. Therefore, if you don’t have an online presence, you run the risk of not being in the running.
Regardless of what your small business has to offer – and how good you are at offering it – you will face competition. A website, however, will allow you to stand apart from that competition and show exactly why you are the better option.
Further, you need to be online so clients or customers can leave positive reviews. Did you know, according to a recent survey , 93% of shoppers say online reviews do impact their purchasing decisions? Your small business can’t afford NOT to have a website!
One often-forgotten perk of having a website is that it allows for the business to always be “open.” What does this mean? For businesses offering products, people can shop for these goods at their convenience – even outside of normal business hours. But even if you offer a service instead of a product, a website will still allow the consumer to at least research and learn about your business in accordance with their schedule.
Finally, a website will allow your small business to target a bigger market – specifically, the entire world! Well, depending on what you’re selling. But don’t you want to have that possibility?
Here’s the truth: There are a million other reasons why your small business needs a website. To save you time and money, we’ve detailed some of the most critical ones above. Do yourself a favor… If your small business is currently without a website, make it a priority to get one.
