Like most small business owners, you might think that your business does not need a professional website. However, you could not be more wrong and here are several reasons why you need a website:
Gives your business credibility
More and more consumers are using the internet to look for the services and products that they need. Having a website will give your business credibility and prevent customers from going to your competitors. If you already have a simple and poorly designed website, you need to have it professionally redesigned.
According to Colby Richards, the managing partner of Brown Box Branding, having a professional website inspires confidence in prospective customers, encouraging them to shop. If you own a home-based business, your website is especially important because you do not have a storefront that customers can see.
Saves you money
Small business owners usually argue that they cannot afford a professional website, but they fail to look at its long-term benefits. Although the cost of keeping a website up and running varies, it usually falls under 100 dollars a month for small businesses. When you compare this to the cost of posting a newspaper ad, you will find that a website is a lot more cost effective.
Keeps customers informed
You need to think of your website as an online catalogue or brochure. It is a lot quicker and easier to update info about your services and products on a site than on print, making it an efficient way of letting the consumer know about special promotions, upcoming events, and new products.
Moreover, unlike print advertisements, which become outdated quickly, websites can provide current news and information.
Always accessible
Websites are available to existing and prospective customers all day, every day. This is convenient because it allows them to review your products and services long after your physical store has closed its doors. With everyone’s busy lifestyles, websites are a great selling point when consumers are making a purchase decision.
Saves on time
Making information available to consumers takes time, whether it is in a brochure or face-to-face meeting. However, when you use an online catalogue, you can provide as much information as you want about your services and products. When your site is up and running, it will be available to your customers forever, saving you time.
Makes it possible to target wider markets
Whether you provide services or products, your website gives consumers an alternative place to purchase them. If you are a retailer, an ecommerce website is the best place to sell your products to a wider market. You can also sell services online, depending on what they are.
Allows you to showcase your work
No matter the type of business you are in, a website is a great medium for displaying your work. If you include an image gallery or a portfolio as well as testimonials, you will be able to demonstrate the unique aspects of your business.
Improves customer service
When you have your own website, you can build an FAQ page and upload newsletters that answer your customer’s questions. There is no better way to give them value added service than by sharing some useful information on your site. The best thing about this is that you can update the information at any time.
Now that you know the numerous benefits of having a professional website for your small business, you should start looking for a qualified web designer to build it for you. Instead of hiring the first person that you come across, you should ask for references from friends and family members who have their own sites. This way, you will not end up with an inexperienced web designer.