Do small businesses need a website? You may ask yourself this as you work on your small business. Is the expense of a website worth it? The answer shouldn't surprise you, but the reasons why might. Yes, your small business needs a website, and here are three reasons why.
1) A Website Lends Credibility
In today’s digital world, the first thing people do is check out your website. Or, they Google your business to find your website. If you don’t have one, people question if your company is legitimate. It’s such a low bar to entry to purchase a custom domain name that it’s a red flag when a company doesn’t have one. It also gives the impression that you may no longer be in business if you don’t have a website. Did you know a whopping 48% of website visitors believe companies who don't have a responsive website don't care? And that 75% of people say that credibility plays a part based on a website's aesthetics? Every small business needs to have a website. It can be a simple one, yes, but it needs to be responsive. Having a website with a cohesive design that showcases the brand and values of the small business is important, too.
2) 93% of Consumers Look for Local Businesses Online
The two most important pieces of information a business can share are their location and how to contact them. Whether you are a brick and mortar, online only, or a mobile business, consumers are looking online for their needs. 93% of consumers look for local businesses online–and the first place they go is to a business's website. Millennial consumers are more likely to search for local businesses while they're on-the-go, and proceed to visit those searched for businesses most of the time. In addition, 61% of shoppers prefer visiting local businesses that have both a physical location and online website presence. By having a website, your business is discoverable through a search engine like Google or Bing. Search engine optimization (SEO) plays a big part of an online presence being "found" on a search engine, and local businesses can optimize for local SEO. Local SEO is optimized for consumers to find local businesses near their current geographic location when the use a search engine. For example, a local search of with a location modifier such as "Philadelphia coffee shops" or "coffee shops near me" would find the local businesses near the geographic location of the user. Without a website, or online presence, a quick Google search may not bring up your small business to potential customers.
3) A Website Promotes Your Business
Think of your website as a virtual calling card. When someone visits your website they're getting insight into who you are, what you value, and what you offer. A well thought out website can build connection, loyalty, and community with consumers. When the contents are kept fresh and updated, visitors will respond positively. An outdated, "clunky," or unresponsive website shows a perceived lack of attention or laziness to the potential customer. They're more likely to find another more eye-catching business they feel they can trust based on the quality of their business website. If customers can't find you, or don't love what they see online, they will find someone else. Having a website allows you to compete–even if most of your business is through your brick-and-mortar store. You can promote your products, your brand, and build credibility online. Small businesses that do not have websites are missing out on opportunities because they cannot be found. Your website is the first impression someone gets - or makes - of your small business.
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