7 Reasons Why You Should Have a Website
So you haven’t gotten around to creating a website huh? You might want to hop on that! 58% of consumers shop online because guess what? The internet never closes. And 81% of consumers go online to research products and services before actually making a purchase. Consumers and clients want more information about your product or service before committing. So why aren’t small businesses taking advantage of that by increasing their chances of being found online with a website?
A website is an amazing digital marketing tool but it is also where your brand lives. It’s your online home. A well designed and well-maintained website will enhance your business image while giving you an edge over other brands in your industry. Wouldn’t you invest in your physical home to make it a reflection of your style, values, and beliefs? Your online home is no different.
However, with all of this being said, 40% of small businesses do not have a website! How crazy is that? If you have a small business, brand or if you are an entrepreneur, having a well-designed website will increase your chances of success. Here are 7 reasons why:
1. Social Media Shut Downs
We know that our social media platforms have glitches, like when Instagram stops working, the app crashes, or it’s not loading. What will you do when all of your sales come from Instagram? Having a website allows you to stay connected to your followers through newsletters and website updates so that your customers know what’s happening with your brand and you don’t lose out on money.
2. Create A Great First and Lasting Impression
When potential customers/clients land on your website and see that it is beautifully designed, functional and informative, they are more likely to look more into your brand on their own. Whenever you’re out networking or having a pop-up shop and handing out your business cards, it’s much easier for people to quickly pop out their phones, go to your website and check you out to see if you’re worth the money.
3. Build An Email List
Having a website is a great way to build an email list. Having call-to-action buttons and sign up forms placed strategically on your website will allow you to do just that. You’re building your own digital community. However, that’s just the first part. Creating well-crafted, engaging and optimized content is the key and will encourage subscribers to become buyers.
4. Expand Your Reach
Being online allows you to reach a market that wouldn’t be possible without having an online presence. Selling your services and products online is cheaper and also very convenient for both you and your customer/client. Millions of people conduct searches every day! Get on their radar.
5. Save Money on Printing Costs
Your website basically acts as your online brochure or portfolio. You can change and update content immediately with no cost to you. Think about how much money you are saving by not having to print your material, especially with a growing business.
6. Improve Customer Service
Imagine how much money you would save if you didn’t always have to explain your product or service to people every day. (Well, at least cut down the number of people asking because we know even though the information is always readily available, some people still don’t read) For the people who do read, having a website with all information about your products and services including FAQ’s will improve customer service and service even increase productivity because you will have time to focus on more important things.
7. Bolster Brand Image
When you have a professional website, it is more likely to translate through an increase in sales, more leads and more brand awareness. It basically tells shoppers and clients that you are a brand worth doing business with. I mean, you’ve invested heavily in your website, which means you believe in your service or product 100%. Give people a reason to spend their hard-earned money with you.
With everything going on in the world, now is the time to make sure you have your own online space to relay information to your followers, clients, and customers.