If you’re a small business, especially one that’s been around for a while, you may have been getting along okay without a company website, with just word of mouth and local print ads.
But if you want to do more than just “okay” and compete in today’s internet connected world, having a website for your business, no matter what size, is not an option, it’s as much of a necessity as a company name.
According to the American Marketing Association, customers look for company websites first when looking up a company or a product or service. And if you think that Facebook page is enough, it’s not.
52% of those surveyed go directly to a company website for information, only 25% look on social media.
A website has become more than just an online page to put your name and number. For many customers, it’s a key decision-making factor for choosing a business to go to for their needs.
At Panic Button Tech, we know the power of a website for bringing in new business as well as giving current customers a way to connect with you when they need to. We’ve also helped many fellow businesses get up and running with their own online presence.
What Stops Companies from Getting a Website?
There are a number of reasons that companies either put off getting a website or never put one up. Some of these are:
- They’re not sure how to do it
- They’re afraid it’s going to cost too much
- They aren’t sure why they need one
- They don’t have time to deal with it
Twenty years ago, it was harder and more expensive to build and have a website hosted, but today it’s become much easier and less expensive. Programs like WordPress are free, and hosting can be less than 50 cents a day (about $15/month).
The simple builder interfaces of today’s website tools, mean you don’t have to be a web designer to get a nice-looking site up. It’s as easy as typing into a box and uploading some images.
5 Compelling Reasons Your Business Needs a Website
The average American spends 24 hours a week online. That’s a huge neighborhood that you need to be a part of.
Business owners choose office locations for the best customer traffic potential. And the internet is increasingly where people are spending their time and looking for the goods and services they need.
Over 88% of the US population are internet users.
Here are some major reasons that small businesses (or any size) need to have their own website.
- A Website (or lack of one) Reflects on Your Company
You can make the best cakes in the world, but if someone has been referred to you from a friend and they don’t find a website, they immediately wonder how legitimate you are. Haven’t you looked up a company before and thought it strange if they didn’t have a website?
The look of the website matters as well. If you have a poorly designed website, it’s like having a dirty store. If your website is uncluttered and looks nice, people are more likely to call or visit your business in person.
- Ecommerce is Big Business
Consumers in the U.S. spent $453.46 billion online in 2017, which was 16% more than the year before. By setting up an online store for your goods or services, you could greatly increase revenue.
Not all companies have things that can be sold online, for example you can’t buy a tooth cleaning and have it shipped. But you can get customers to sign up more easily online to come to your office for that cleaning. So, there are financial benefits no matter what your business type.
- Lead Generation and Nurturing
Email marketing remains the #1 method with the best ROI for lead generation. It’s very low cost and easy to do. A website allows your visitors to opt into a weekly or monthly email newsletter where you can highlight specials or new products.
It’s also an excellent way to nurture long-term leads by feeding them little bite-sized pieces of information about you, such as case studies and awards.
- It’s a 24/7 Salesperson That Never Sleeps
When your “cool service” shop closes up for the weekend, that doesn’t mean people aren’t still looking for that service that you provide so well. But if they have time to search only on the weekend, and you don’t have a website, you’re not going to be the company they find.
A website is like having a salesperson that never sleeps. They’re there 24/7 ready to give information to your potential customers, and you know exactly what they are going to say at all times.
- You’ll Be in Front of More Customers Than You Can Without One
There are only so many people that will pass by your store or office each day no matter how great your location. Yet, millions can see you online. Your website can be found on Google by everyone in your service area, no matter what the size.
And if you run a home-based business… even more reason to have a website that makes you look just as professional as any other business.
Need Some Help Getting a Website Up Fast?
Panic Button Tech offers excellent website hosting and management plans that are easy, affordable, and can get you up and running with an awesome website in no time.
Our hosting plans include monthly backups and start at just $15/month. If you’re looking for a little more help, we’ll take care of content creation and regular updates for you too. Just give us a call today at 951-501-8008, it’s easy and we’re friendly!