"I already have a website. I had some company out of Ohio build it. I don't really look at it much." Sound familiar?
When I work with clients I do more than just build them a website. I build them a marketing tool that works to grow their business while they service their current customers. I believe that if done correctly print, web and marketing work together to grow a business.
Believe it or not, there are some businesses out there that do not have websites. Gasp! Today we are going to talk about why every business needs a website and a web presence.
Business 200: Why you need a Website?
An online presence is so much more than a just a website.
There are numerous reasons why even the smallest of businesses can benefit from a web presence. Below are five key considerations of we well-designed website:
Visibility: With more and more consumers logging onto the Web to research products and services, if they are going to find your business, your business needs to be on the Web. A first impression of a business is often their website. The site needs to reflect the professionalism and quality of the business through the style and design of the site.
Reach: With a website, you are no longer limited to a customer base that is in physical proximity to your main office. Your place of business may be in Virginia, but your customers can be in Hawaii. This aids in growing your business past word of mouth.
Customer service: When customers can log onto your website and easily find the information they want-when they want it--their satisfaction increases. Is your site mobile optimized? The majority of website visitors are logging on from a mobile device. If it is hard to navigate your site from a mobile device, guess what, vistitors leave your site.
Competition: A professional looking website can level the playing field for smaller companies trying to compete against larger enterprises. It's also a way to stay in the game. Even if people can't find you on the Web chances are they can find your competitors.
Credibility: When you can point customers, partners, even potential employees or investors to a visually stunning website, it tells them you are a serious business.
Does your current website meet the above items? Ask yourself:
How is my current website working for me as a business owner?
Can I capture visitor's contact information to grow my contact list?
Can customers book appointments with me from my website?
Can customers easily find what they need on my website?
Can customers order products or RSVP to events from my website?
Can customers contact you through your website?
Can you respond to website messages easily?
How many website visitors does my site get a month?
How many qualified leads come from my website?
How is my website ranked in search results?
Is my website mobile optimized?
Most websites have one or two but not all of considerations discussed above. If you would like a free website audit of your current website, please contact me at melissa@winebrennerdesigns.com.