Does My Business Need a Website?

If you’re a small business owner or self-employed and you don’t have a website, you’re missing out on opportunities. There’s no question about it.

First impressions of your website make a difference

We cannot deny it – we now live in a world where people will “Google you” before they pick up the phone or visit you. This includes looking for online reviews and visiting your Social Media pages.

Your online identity is there whether you’ve made a meaningful contribution to it or not. First impressions count and you need to put your best foot forward.

Looking at your website, people will be making decisions as to whether or not they will actually contact you before they contact your competitor!

If your website doesn’t meet the expectations visitors have for your business OR businesses similar to yours they will most likely dismiss you and move on.

Window shopping has changed

It’s no longer just about taking a stroll down the High Street.

Whilst the High Street may still exist, more and more people are turning to Google, review sites and other online spots where your business can be represented to browse and make purchase decisions.

Make sure your business is well represented on these sites by first and foremost, having a website – but by also being represented among each of the online search engines.

A professionally built and well-maintained website is your digital shop window.

A great user experience means creating an aesthetically pleasing web presence, easily navigable on all devices with clearly visible contact details.

Social media links are also important but be aware that, this can backfire if you are not an active user of such platforms.

People often search for local suppliers, so maintaining a ‘Google Local’ listing is a great way of attracting possibly your most important customer base.

No website means you’re losing business

By now it’s clear that if you don’t have a website, you’re missing out on opportunities for customers to identify who you are and if they want to spend money with you.

A bad website will damage your online reputation and send out the wrong message to visitors. Most likely it’s worse than having no website at all – but let’s be clear… both are bad for business.

DoodleIT is based in Ruthin and provides web design North Wales with help and support as needed.

Coming next.
In the next edition we will talk about tips to improve your website and the pitfalls many unknowingly fall into.