How important is having a website to you? If you’re a small business owner you may not immediately see the value in it, or you’re too busy with your day to day operations to even consider having one. Perhaps you think you can’t afford it? The fact is, these days you can’t afford not to!
Not having an online presence spells a lost business opportunity and only opens the door wider for your competitors –
who do have a website, to steer potential leads or customers their way. Think of the Internet as a phone book. People don’t just shop online, they also use it to research services and products, which is why having a website is essential for any type of business. In fact, we’d go as far to say it should be your #1 marketing tool. We could list endless reasons why you should have a professionally designed website, but here are 5 key thought starters for why you shouldn’t overlook developing a website or a new website design in 2018:
1. Make an Impression
What does your website say about you? A business card will only go so far, but an engaging and mobile friendly website design says it all. These days consumers expect businesses to have a website, increasingly one which supports mobile devices. And what they see initially will determine whether or not they want to connect with you further.
A visually appealing website with captivating images and video content goes a long way. In fact, 89% of consumers agree attractive images on a site influences their purchasing decision. To sum it up – first impressions count!
2. Reach new customers
Promoting your business online allows virtually anyone to interact and engage with your brand, allowing you to stay competitive. A professionally designed, SEO friendly website will boost your chances of being seen in Google search results. And with 81% of shoppers using Google to research products and services online, prior to making a decision or purchase, you’d want to make sure you’re getting a piece of the pie.
Compare that to placing a newspaper ad or printed brochure production, and you’ll soon discover your website is a very cost effective way to promote your business.
3. Improved customer service
The content on your website can provide customers with answers to questions they are seeking. It gives them another way to contact you, and allows you a quick and easy means of sharing information about your business, new products, promotions, events, FAQs and tips – the list goes on! You’ll also gain more credibility for your business and grow your brand.
4. Open 24/7, 365 days a year
Having a website means you’re always accessible, especially if your business can sell products online. An ecommerce site offers customers a means of shopping at a time convenient to them, and they’re not bound by your geographical location.
5. Save money
Creating a professional looking website isn’t as expensive as it once was. And with the ability to easily edit your own content through platforms such as WordPress – you don’t need a technical guru to do it for you. Compare that to placing a newspaper ad or printed brochure production, and you’ll soon discover your website is a very cost effective way to promote your business.
