Are you wondering why you need a business website when you can do everything on social media? Or do you think that websites are too expensive and beneficial only for big companies? Many business owners, tiny businesses, think that a website is unnecessary and a Facebook page is enough for an online presence.
If you think a business website is a luxury thing that you can afford to live without, you’re mistaken. With technological advancements, consumer behavior also changes to adapt to modern technology. Like how the Yellow Pages advertising became a standard operating procedure for businesses in the 1990s, the same is the case with websites. The introduction of the telephone changed the way business operated. With the increasing adoption of this new technology, most households started using the directory to find local products and services. Similarly, the World Wide Web has transformed the way businesses operate in the 21st century.
The invention of the World Wide Web has resulted in a shift from printed directory to online websites. Today, in 2019, more than 95% of customers go online to find local businesses. This means that if you want to be found by your potential customers, you need to go online. A website is a single domain that consists of different web pages. It gives information about business and its products/services and has some unique features like built-in SEO tools and much more.
A professionally designed business website can help in increasing sales and establishing brand identity. In fact, if you don’t have a business website, you are losing out on great business opportunities. But if you’re still unsure about having a website, read further to know some compelling reason to develop a functional website.
Cost-Effective
Unlike a common belief, developing a website doesn’t cost much. You may think that you can’t afford a professional website. However, in reality, you can’t afford NOT to have one. The cost of designing and developing a website depends on the features you want. But once it’s up and running, a professional website is worth the initial investment. The traditional advertising methods, such as newspaper ads, radio commercials, and promotional materials, can be used for a fixed period. On the other hand, a website is a cost-effective way to promote your business in the long term.
Always Accessible
If you only operate through a brick-and-mortar store that is only open a few hours a day, you’re losing many customers. Your competitors have a website that is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Most people are busy during the day and prefer shopping in the evening or late at night. A website provides convenience to customers to review your products and services even when your store or office is closed. They can contact you, book services, sign up for your courses, schedule appointments, and purchase directly through your website anytime.
Credibility
Do you know a website can help your business gain credibility? A professionally designed website has features such as testimonials and a work portfolio that tell consumers why they should trust you. A website can provide product information that customers are looking for. A well-designed website will make your business look more credible, which in turn increases sales.