Here's How a Website Will Benefit Your Small Business
As we all move more and more into the online and digital space at what seems to be an increasingly fast pace, it’s time to consider moving your small business online and here's why:
In today’s world, majority of people turn to Google to search for anything and everything. Yes, we have certainly seen an increase in businesses turn to social media as they begin to build their online presence, especially given that social media marketing is an extremely viable form of marketing for small businesses. However, search engines (such as Google) still play a vital role in the online success of businesses.
It’s your first impression.
Think of your website as the “welcome mat” to your business or a digital brochure — this is your first impression for new potential customers or clients. And keep in mind that you do not get a second chance to make a first impression.
A website is a great way to further grow interest in your business (especially with engaging content), build community, connection and loyalty with your customers or clients.
Increases brand awareness.
Maybe you have an Etsy shop and you’ve been doing pretty well on their platform, however, you also might notice that you are paying an immense amount in fees. And while Etsy is incredible, especially for new small business owners who are just getting started, the issue is not only the amount of fees but the lack of brand awareness.
Having your own website means that you can increase brand awareness (especially through your own domain name), and not only have more control of your revenue and profit shares but also be able to see more of it as you’re spending less on Etsy fees.
In addition, an SEO-optimized website will increase the chance of showing up in Google search results, and as we mentioned, majority of people turn to Google to search for anything and everything, which means this gives you the opportunity to drastically increase your customer or client base.
Establishes your authority.
As more and more businesses move to the online and digital space, having a website will establish your authority and build trust with the people searching for your specific products or services. Think about it, when you go to Google to search for something, whether that be a product or a service, you more than likely click on one of the top five search results or at least a result somewhere on the first page.
Unless you have a website or a domain name to filter into the search results, it's quite difficult to get your Instagram account or other social media platforms to show up as one of the top five search results.
And even then, the top three search results are typically paid advertisements. And you might be thinking, "okay then, I'll just pay to appear as one of the top three results through advertising," which is certainly possible, however, keep in mind that some businesses pay $58 per click to appear as a top search result on Google.
Builds credibility.
Especially when you own your own domain name (and email), as it shows visitors that you are an established business. For example, www.ourmindfulmarketing.com. Having your own domain name also increases your chances of having your small business appear in search results.
In addition, it helps visitors to build trust with a business when they can have all of their most frequently asked questions immediately answered (hours of operation, directions, menu options, products, services, etc.) when they search for it.
Enhances professionalism.
Having your own email creates additional legitimacy or professionalism with potential customers or clients. Whereas, if you send an email from a personal email, for example, exampleofanemail@gmail.com, potential customers or clients may not take you or your business as seriously .
It’s vital during a pandemic.
If we have all learned anything within the past year, it’s certainly that our lives and businesses can be completely upended at the drop of a hat.
Having an online presence may possibly be the only way that your customers will find you.
If you’ve been considering your own website recently but have been on the fence about it, check out our website services and our carefully curated portfolio of past projects for ideas on how we can help you to bring your conceptual ideas to digital life.
written by: Adriana Leos Chief Creative Officer