“Do I need one?”
That’s a perfectly legitimate question to ask in an era when you have to examine everything you spend money on. So please read on and find out why the answer is ‘absolutely’.
The most important question to ask yourself is, “How do customers find me?”
They might use Google, or social media, or ask around.
If you don’t have a website they cannot find you by Googling, but they can find all your competitors.
If you’re relying on social media you’re leaving your image and reputation in the hands of forces you have no control over.
If you’re relying on word of mouth for leads, the first thing a prospect will ask is, “Do they have a website?” because they will want to check you out.
Having your own website means you can present your message in terms you have control over. Logically and coherently. You are putting your best foot forward.
People like to buy; they don’t like to be sold to
With a sensibly laid-out website a visitor can feel they are in charge of the process, they click on and read the content they feel is most important to them.
Plus you have complete control on what information is made available to them, and you can ensure it is accurate and up-to-date.
Your website is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Unlike a shop or office, your website never closes!
So whatever the time of day someone is considering your business you can strike while the iron is hot. However, if all they can find are your competitors’ websites, you might lose out.
Your website can answer common questions about your goods or services, show visitors the benefits of doing business with you, and ensure that enquirers are qualified – they already know you have something they want to buy.
A website builds credibility and trust
Even the smallest business can have a website. So if yours doesn’t have one, what negative message is that giving to potential clients or customers?
Setting out your business on a website establishes you as legitimate and credible because it is a very public platform. Describing what you do will also help to establish trust.