These days it’s very easy to create a website, but it’s not so easy to create a professional website which actually works.
Lots of small businesses don’t have a website and some would tell you they don’t need a site at all. Are they right..?
Why would a small business owner need a website?
Some business owners feel they don’t have the skills, time or money to manage a business website. And many feel that with a social media presence they don’t actually need a website as well.
Having a social media presence, whether it’s Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or LinkedIn, can be great for many businesses; but this in combination with a professional customised website is even better.
With your own website, you can control the look and feel of everything on the page to make sure it reflects your brand 100%. This can’t be achieved in the same way with a Facebook page or LinkedIn profile, your presence on any social media platform isn’t yours to control in the same way as your own website. If you rely on social media you’re relying on someone else’s system and format. They can change the rules, and when people can fall out of love with a particular platform they’ll have lost contact with you.
Having your own site means you are in control, and using your website well means having your own space to:
- advertise your services
- showcase your gallery
- collect reviews
- be seen online
- show potential clients why they should engage you
If you own a business, you should have a website.
My business has always done just fine – how will a new website help me?
In the past, people looking for a local business would have searched the phonebook or “Yellow Pages”. But, you have probably noticed, these directories are shrinking every year because more and more people are turning to the internet to find the local service they need.
Your target audience and potential client expect to find a website for your business. Not having one means you missing out on potential business; and with more of these searches happening on handheld devices, your website must be mobile-friendly.
It doesn’t need to be complicated or flashy, as long as your website is up-to-date and accurate it’s most important job is to reflect your business well – for this, even a simple one-page site might be all you need. Whether you choose a complex site with a booking system and payment processing, or a cost-effective marketing page which champions your brand online, a well-designed website is essential to reflect your brand.
If you’re still not sure how a website will help your business, get in touch. We’d be happy to talk through your requirements.
(this post created with writerforyou.co.uk)