If you are a small business without a web presence, then you are without a doubt leaving money on the table.  It might sound crude and overly simplified, but it’s fact.  Think of it this way, where is the first place you look for say, a local plumber, therapist or dog groomer?  Spoiler alert 🚨 It’s 2019 … it sure won’t be the Yellow pages.

Why Does your Small Business Need a Website?

Every man and their dog turns to their best pal Google to locate a business or product to suit their immediate requirements.  The more convenient the better.  If you’re not ready and waiting with a professional and inviting website, then prepare to be swiftly overlooked.  The customer that got away will no doubt find a business that has embraced the digital business era.

A Website is More Effective than Most Other Business Advertising

In my previous post, I mentioned some important stats about old media.  Year upon year, the data highlights that ads placed within old media sources (such as television, radio and newspapers) simply don’t bring in the same results they once did.  

When it comes to getting the word out about your business, new media is undoubtedly the way forwards.  In most cases, your website is actually the first thing people will see of your business.  It is the digital equivalent to bricks and mortar shopfront. 

Choosing a Website Design

One of the most important parts of your business digital strategy should be investing in a professional website design.  Fresh looking and simple websites are often the better choice because they are visually pleasing.  If you get the right balance, your potential customer won’t be overloaded by excessive information and poor formatting as soon as they access your site.

You also want a clear cut and simple website navigation system.  This makes it easier for your customer to find exactly what they are looking for whilst visiting your website.

Data Alert 🚨 Did you know that 79% of smartphone users have made a purchase online using their mobile device in the last 6 months?  I can’t stress this enough; it is imperative that your website design is mobile-friendly.  The data doesn’t lie!

So You’ve Got Your Website: What’s Next?

Once you have your website ready to go, I would strongly suggest creating a Google my Business page as your next port of call. This is free to set up and can help your small business to further stand out online. Yippee!  I have set up Google my Business pages for every business that I provide digital services to.  Not only does it add an extra dimension to your online presence, but it can also help your business appear higher on the search engine results pages.

There are many more benefits to setting up a Google my Business Page for your small business.  For example, you can schedule business events through your page, such as;  a unique promotion, an upcoming sale, or a networking event.  Your business will also appear in relevant searches in relation to your locality.

Google my Business is similar to social media platforms like Facebook etc. because you can create posts that keep your business listing fresh. The review function is another great feature. There is nothing like displaying excellent customer feedback to entice other potential customers. This is the digital era’s version of word of mouth marketing.

FIN

Thanks so much for joining me today.  This is only a quick post as I have been extremely busy with work this week!  As always I hope it has provided you with some value!

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