In one word, Absolutely. Our world has become increasingly digitized thanks to the compulsive use of the internet which has revolutionized domains and industries.
If you own a business, and you want to reach a larger audience, then you simply can’t survive without having a digital presence. It is standard practice for a business to have its own Facebook page, Twitter handle, Instagram channel, and now more important than ever before – a website.
Not only do you need to have a website it needs to be professionally designed, aesthetically pleasing, lead-catching, brand-defining website that resonates with your user base. In order for any business to generate sales, they must first find a cheap and reliable way to reach their audience. Did you know 86% of consumers rely on the internet to find local businesses? Of that, 46% of searches on Google are seeking local information.
Take yourself as an example. What do you do when you are looking for a new restaurant in your area? What about a barber shop? Need a Electrician or a Realtor? First thing you would do is to turn to Google and search for the term. The Listing with the most reviews, cleanest looking content or ease to contact will usually be your first choice!
We are living in the internet age and web presence for a business is more important than ever. Below are 5 of the top reasons why a professionally crafted website for small businesses in today’s age is a must!
- A website makes you look professional
Did you know that 30% of consumers won’t even consider a business without a website! Now more than ever, customers want to be able to find information about you from your company website. The average person spends about 5 hours daily online. Most consumers do research online before they make a purchase, even if it’s to buy something from their local shop. If you don’t have a website, it sends a message that your business is stuck in the Dark Ages, that you’re not open anymore, or that you’re not interested in finding new customers—and those are certainly not messages you want to send!
- Appear in local Searches
You need to show up where the customers are! 97 percent of people go online to find a local business, and 93 percent of online experiences begin with a search engine. Believe it or not, there are 3.5 billion searches on Google per day, and at this very moment, there is someone in your area online and searching for your exact service. When you have an excellent website with quality SEO you can easily rank to the top of the page and be the first listing someone sees when they search. Google allows you to show reviews, integrate with maps and have an online business presence. The beauty of that is anyone can see it
- Ability to showcase your products or services.
This is crucial if you are in a niche industry. When potential clients are looking for something specific you can showcase your expertise in that are and how you have helped may people solve that problem (social proof).
- Encourage potential customers to contact you
This is one of if not the most important reason. You can generate quality leads, potential buyers from them simply visiting your site. Either they call you or sign up to your email newsletter, you can bring them into your ecosystem and eventually convert them into paying customers.
- Control perception and branding.
Business is all about perception. What does your company do and how can it help improve the lives of others? This is a message you can directly control by the images and wording you put out for the world to see. You can use this along with social media to engage with your customers build a community and learn more about them to tailer your product or service in order to serve them better.
At the end of the day the goal of a business is to make money. A website is an affordable tool which’s sole purpose is to further accelerate the goals of your business. If you don’t have one yet or are looking to significantly spruce up contact. Us and we can help you learn more!
At ML360 we’re here to assist in taking your business online and/or strengthen your current online presence. Your Success is our Success! Contact Us in the form below and we’re here for you each step of the way forward.
