If you’re a small business owner or you’re just starting out, like many, you may think there’s no benefit in having a website when you can do everything on social media. Or maybe you think you can’t afford a professional website so you get a freebie and do it yourself instead.
Even if you are an established business that has relied on word of mouth, there are several reasons why your business needs a professional website too. I believe, even with all that you can do on social media, and even if you’ve been in business for several decades, your business needs a website and preferably one that is professionally designed and developed.
Having a professional website is crucial for your business, even if you already have a large social media presence. While there are free or low-cost options available for claiming your online space, these options often do not allow you to fully own or control your website. By investing in a professional website, you gain complete ownership and control over your online space.
While social media is an effective tool for driving traffic to your website and sharing content, relying solely on social media for customer acquisition can be risky. Social media channels can pull the plug on your content at any moment, leaving you with no control over your online presence. Having a professional website ensures that your business has a stable, reliable online home that you can count on.
In today’s digital age, more and more people are turning to the internet to search for solutions to their problems, compare prices, and research businesses before making a purchase. Without a website, potential customers may choose to do business with your competitors instead. A professional website not only provides the information your customers are looking for, but also lends credibility to your business.
We highly recommend using WordPress with a professional theme for your website. By designing responsively and keeping your customers’ needs in mind, your website can provide a great user experience across all devices, whether it’s a computer, tablet, or mobile phone. With careful planning and attention to detail, your website can present a professional image and help your business thrive in the digital world.
IT SAVES YOU MONEY IN THE LONG TERM
If you’re a small business owner, you might assume that a professional website is out of your budget. However, while the initial cost of designing a website varies depending on your needs and skill level, the long-term benefits are worth the investment. Using WordPress to build your website can also save you money on updates since you can add and modify your own content as needed.
When you compare the cost of a website to traditional advertising methods like newspaper ads, radio commercials, promotional materials, or networking events, it becomes clear that a website is a cost-effective way to promote your business to a wide audience over a long period of time. So, even if you’re just starting out, investing in a professional website can be a smart choice for the future success of your business.
CUSTOMERS CAN BE KEPT INFORMED
In its most basic form, think of a website as being an online brochure or catalog that can be updated at any time. It is much easier and quicker to update information about your products and services on your website than it is in a print brochure
A website is an effective way of introducing your customers to new services, letting them know about new products, announcing upcoming events and special promotions. You can also provide added value by posting tips, resources, and other information through a blog on your website. Unlike print ads, newspaper articles, and flyers, which quickly become outdated, your website can provide current information and news. And if you discover a mistake after you publish a page or post, it is a quick fix.
A WEBSITE IS ALWAYS ACCESSIBLE
Having a website offers a significant advantage over a physical store because it can operate 24/7 without any time constraints. This means that prospective and current customers can access information about your products and services anytime, day or night, even outside your physical store’s operating hours. Additionally, with various interactive features and add-ons available, visitors to your website can easily get in touch with you, enroll in courses, book appointments, and make purchases directly from your site, even when you’re not available or your business is closed. In today’s fast-paced world, this level of convenience can be a crucial factor in customers’ purchasing decisions.
A WEBSITE ENABLES YOU TO TARGET A WIDER AUDIENCE
Even service-based businesses can offer their services globally through a website. Now that we have so many affordable ways to communicate with people, we can do business with anyone, anywhere, any time. Since more and more people have access to the internet, even in remote locations, you can target a much wider audience if your business has a website. Whether you offer products or services, or you’re business or consumer based, your website provides you with an alternative location to sell. As a retailer, an eCommerce website is a great place to sell your products to a wider market. Think of all the people who can’t get to your bricks and mortar store that you could sell your products to.
A WEBSITE SAVES YOU TIME
Time is money, so they are often linked together. Saving time is another great reason why your business needs a professional website.
Time is an important commodity in our fast-paced world even if you don’t attach a monetary value to it. Most people these days don’t have enough time for leisure, pleasure, family, or healthy activities. Having a professionally designed website saves you time both in the short and long term.
By providing information to your customers online, you can save a vast amount of valuable time that you would otherwise spend communicating to your prospects.
A WEBSITE CAN IMPROVE CUSTOMER SERVICE
Your website is not just a place to showcase your products or services, it can also be a valuable tool to improve customer service. For instance, if you offer a service like accounting or insurance, you can provide your clients with useful advice to help them make informed decisions. By creating a FAQ page or a resources section, you can provide answers to common questions and concerns that your customers may have.
Regularly updating your website with informative articles or newsletters can keep your customers better informed and up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in your industry. This not only adds value to your website, but also helps to establish your authority and credibility in your field.
In addition, your website can be used to offer after-sales support, such as troubleshooting guides or user manuals. This can help your customers to quickly and easily find the information they need, reducing frustration and improving their overall experience with your business.
By providing exceptional customer service through your website, you can keep your customers satisfied and coming back to you for all their future needs.