Every business has a website - right?!
Most of us would assume that everybody who owns a business would also own a website. Before getting involved with Signpost Media, I certainly thought this was the case - well I was wrong.
Many business owners have never created a website, believing that they didn't need one. Some had built a website years before which was now outdated, tired and had low quality images. Others had websites that were not optimised for mobile devices, or worst of all no longer worked or even existed!
We have put together the 5 main reasons that every business owner, no matter how small, should have a website - based on a combination of our knowledge and experience, and the most common mistakes some people make.
5 Reasons Why You Should Have a Website
1 - Society is online!
It is imperative that you have an online presence for your brand. In 2016, 84% of all adults aged 16 and over were using the Internet and 72% of those use a smartphone, so it is essential to ensure your Website is optimised properly for these devices. Remember, your Website is, in essence, the Internet's equivalent to a high street shop front. This is your chance to entice customers in further whilst they are in cyber space and in 'buyer' mode.
2 - But I've got a Facebook page?
Don't confuse a professional, high quality Website with having a Social Media account! We hear this a lot and are constantly having to remind people that they are not the same thing. Social Media is merely an enhancement of your business website, not a replacement. It is a great place to build a community who are already interested in your products or services, but it is not the best place to get new customers, or to convince them that you are as professional and trustworthy as you say you are. There is very good reason why all Social Media sites will tell you to add a link to your website on your business page.
3 - So, are you trustworthy?
Having somewhere to send your potential clients is an important step when it comes to first impressions. Reviews and word of mouth will only take you so far, and won't count for much if a potential customer is searching for someone to build a patio and they can't even find a number or business address for you online...
4 - Search Engines are your allies!
The giant that is Google can help your business to grow! Search engines are by far the most popular source for looking for information online (97%). At Signpost Media we help our clients with their Search Engine Optimisation, or SEO, which is an ongoing part of the integral maintenance of their Websites. This ensures that they stay within the top 20 search results at all times - that's right, you don't need millions of pounds to do this, just a good Web Design Company! But organically improving your presence can only work with great content, which is where our Business Photography and Graphic Design services can help...
5 - Business Referrals!
Do you have clients who are also business owners? Recommend each other and use links on your Websites to help promote your businesses further. i.e a Butcher could provide a link to their preferred refrigeration delivery company, or a Hair Salon could link to their favourite Beautician to help finish off your dream look.
Follow these 5 simple steps and you could be well on your way to creating a successful online business empire!
If you would like to speak to Signpost Media about how we could help you to build an affordable website please contact us to discuss further or to arrange a consultation. Signpost Media specialise in affordable web design in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire.
(Internet usage information from Ofcom: https://www.ofcom.org.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0020/102755/adults-media-use-attitudes-2017.pdf )