Regardless of what your small business sells or offers, it can benefit from having a website. Online shopping has become the preferred method for buying products and services, with statistics showing that 79 percent of U.S. consumers shop online. It’s easier, more convenient, and typically yields better deals than shopping at local retail stores.
Consumers Research Product Prices Online
According to Adweek, 81 percent of consumers research product prices online before purchasing. With small business websites, Redding consumers can look for the best price. If your business doesn’t have a website, however, these consumers may choose one of your competitors instead.
Websites Build Credibility
Another reason to invest in a website is for credibility. According to a study conducted by Verisign, 84 percent of consumers view small businesses with websites as more credible than their offline counterparts. Small business websites establish trust and credibility, which can help establish your business as a market leader.
Phone Books Are Obsolete
Although they are still in print, fewer and fewer consumers are using phone books to find business information. When a consumer wants to find the address to a small business, he or she will likely use the Internet. It takes just a few seconds to perform a Google search. Assuming your business has a website, these users can easily find your information online.
Attract More Customers
Of course, having a website will help your small business attract more customers. Regardless of whether you sell a product or service online, prospective customers can find your business more easily if you have a website. And with more traffic coming to your business, you’ll experience more sales as a result.
Get Professional Assistance
Even if you don’t have the tools or experience to build your own business website, there are professional website developers who can help. They will discuss your goals and objectives, using this information to create the perfect site for your business. Professional website developers know how to build effective, authoritative sites for small businesses.
Extend Your Market Reach
A website can also extend your business’s market reach. If you currently operate a local retail store, for instance, launching a website will allow you to reach customers outside your local market. This opens the doors to a new world of opportunities for your business.
Here are some tips for creating an effective small business website:
- Use a mobile-friendly website design.
- Publish your business’s name, address, and phone number.
- Integrate your business’s brand element into your website design.
- Don’t attempt a DIY website; outsource it to a professional agency.
- Optimize your site to load quickly.
- Include a call-to-action (CTA) on your site, encouraging visitors to call or visit your business.
As you can see, there are countless reasons to invest in a website for your small business. Don’t get left behind by your competitors; act now to get your business online.
