It’s not 1998 any more.
Yeah, this probably sounds harsh, but when it comes to keeping up with web design, we can be a bit stern.
“Does my business really need a website?” is a question that should be followed swiftly by with another question: “Can you really afford not to have one?”
In 2016, it’s so vital for your business – regardless of its size, type and industry – to have an online presence that we would say it’s actually indispensable for moving forward and growing.
The thing is, your website doesn’t have to be fancy or elaborate (not, that is, if you don’t want it to be).
Not all websites serve the same purposes and functions. Your website needs might be very simple. You may just need the website equivalent of a business card, and this can be very basic (but very effective in terms of serving its purpose – that is, proving potential clients with a way of finding and contacting you).
You’re missing out on customers.
Let’s think for a moment about the potential client base you’re losing out on when your business isn’t online.
More than 2.4 billion people use the internet every day. Some 90% of those people have bought something or contacted a company online in the last twelve months.
By not having a website, you’re selling yourself short.
Your competitors are already online.
In a hyper-saturated digital market, your competition already has a website.
Having a website for your business is essential – arguably, no longer even optional – if you want to keep up.
A website is an excellent way to level the playing field. But if your competition has a website and you don’t – even if theirs is actually pretty ordinary – you’re actually running the risk of being left behind.
A website never rests.
One of the most satisfying things about having a website is that it’s open 24/7, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Customers will be able to find you whenever and wherever they like.
This is the beauty of digital culture – time and space are no longer barriers.
Your website is perhaps the best promotional tool you’ll ever have.
A website is your best face forward to potential customers (which is another very compelling reason why it should be professionally designed, up to date, and filled with relevant, well-crafted content).
Whether you’re a hair stylist, tattoo artist, psychiatrist or cattery owner, your business has a message.
Maybe you’re committed to providing ethical, transparent services, or perhaps you’re all about using 100% recyclable packaging.
Regardless of what you represent or provide, a website is a great way to show off your wares and talents for people to see. Put simply, it’s the best way to impress potential customers.
By including a portfolio or photo gallery – and displaying testimonials from satisfied clients you’ve worked with before – you can show people what makes your business unique.
Be credible.
Having a website isn’t just about expanding your reach, increasing your customer base, and making it much easier for people to contact you.
Getting your business online is also about establishing your company as credible and trustworthy.
By simply having a website, you’re immediately making your business seem more credible. So many people engage in a process of research when they’re looking for particular goods and services, and businesses who aren’t online don’t seem active, current or engaged – they’re not immediately perceived as credible.
Why put yourself at such a distinct disadvantage?