Why do I need a website?

Many owners of small businesses ask “why do I need a website?” There are many good reasons but the simple truth is that, these days it is expected that you have one.

• It establishes your business as a serious one. If you do not have a website, potential customers may look upon your business as an insignificant one that is not even interested in providing basic contact or business information. This is especially true if you don’t have a ‘bricks & mortar’ shop front.
• A website boosts your business image. With a large number of small businesses being run from home a website gives you a virtual shop-front that makes your business look established, professional and larger than it might actually be!
• It is also a very useful marketing tool. It helps customers to find you and builds brand and product awareness that will eventually lead to improved sales. It acts as your brochure and provides information about your company, products and services to all those who want to know, twenty-four hours a day.
• The internet is where people go to find local businesses. According to recent surveys, 73% of people use search engines such as Google or Yahoo to find local business information¹ and, for 31%², it is their primary source of this information.
• It is one of the cheapest forms of advertising. Once your website is up and running, you can drastically reduce the number of printed brochures you send out and simply direct people to your website. If you have to make changes to your business information, you can do it instantly and you won't be left with hundreds of out-of-date printed brochures.
• A website helps you stay in touch with both existing and potential customers. You can invite customers to leave their details and send out targeted marketing or newsletter emails to people who have already expressed an interest in your business. If your business sells products directly – whether in a shop or at craft fairs etc. – how often do you get contact details from your customers? If you started selling products online this information is collected automatically.
• It can expand your business. If your business sells products that could have a market outside your local area then a website will help you expand your customer base; even beyond national borders. You really can have a global marketplace!

¹ Source: SEMPO.
² Source: Search Engine Watch.