Do I really need a website? This is a common question from many small business owners. They are often worried about:
- The cost of getting a website built
- The stress of maintaining a website if they have no experience in this area
- How a website will help their business grow
- A website being just another thing to consume valuable time
We have all learnt a lot from the COVID-19 situation currently facing the country. One of the main learnings is that face-to-face business has become difficult. It has required people to go online.
As experienced web developers, we’d like to give you our thoughts on why you should consider getting a website built.
Reputable businesses are expected to have websites
Potential customers want to be able to find information about you from your company website. Most consumers do research online before they make a purchase. From the local cafe to the hardware shop – we expect businesses to be online. If you don’t have a website, how are your customers able to find you? Did you know that only 40% of Australians use Facebook? You are potentially missing 60% of the population if you rely solely on Facebook for your online presence.
Your website - your information and branding
A website with your branding and logo gives you authority in your industry. It provides you with the opportunity to tell the world about your products and services and gives you an official online presence.
A great website presents your business as more reputable and trustworthy
Consumers are pretty savvy when they research online. In fact, 75% will judge your credibility based on your website design. That’s why it’s so important to have a modern, up-to-date website with a custom domain name and other markers of trustworthiness. A website also shows that you are open for business during a time when there is a lot of uncertainty.
A website is more affordable than traditional advertising
Many small businesses who don’t have a website still rely on Yellow Pages or local newspaper ads to get their name out there. Considering the move to close local newspapers, and the move away from Yellow Pages, you need to consider if this type of advertising is the best use of your business funds. A website will give you a wider reach than locally targeted off-line advertising.
You can find new local customers
A website isn’t just for finding customers across the globe- it’s an essential tool for attracting local customers too. Almost half (46%) of all Google searches are people looking for something near them. That’s especially true of mobile phone users who might be looking for a shop, restaurant, or other service while they’re on-the-go. If you don’t have a website, you’re missing out on an opportunity to catch those visitors when they’re in your neighbourhood and ready to buy.
Facebook recently announced a new algorithm that prioritises the content shared by a user’s friends, over any advertising or business content.
But I am online - I have Facebook!
Maybe you already have a Facebook page and some pretty good reviews on social media. Lots of business owners assume that a social media profile for their business is enough.
Consider though that not all people are on Facebook or Instagram. Older people in particular are not familiar with these platforms, and so would never find you.
There are problems with this strategy. You will always be dependent on the social media platform you choose. Algorithms change, rules change, and what’s working one day might not work a few weeks from now (as many businesses who depended on Facebook have recently learned).
If you have a website, it belongs to you, and you control the content and the message. Part of the reason you started your own business is so that you don’t have to follow other people’s rules – so why would you just do what a social media platform tells you to?
Trends change, too. If your customers are on Instagram today, they might be on a new platform tomorrow. As people switch from one tool to the next, your website acts as an anchor. No matter what social media service customers prefer, they can always find your website in the same place, available to everyone.
The bottom line: Every business needs a website
HomeI hope after reading this article you will be re-thinking your need for a business website. Whether your business is large or small, a well developed website will enhance your business and your profits. Please contact engagedICT for a chat and a no obligation quote to bring your business online.