There’s no easier way to put it…No matter how big or how small your business is…you must have a website.
If you are just starting out, don’t put it off.
If you are a freelancer, don’t put it off.
If you have only a couple of employees, don’t put it off.
If you have been in business for a while and STILL don’t have a website…why are you putting it off?
Ok, I think I’ve driven this point enough, you need a website.
Make the Investment
You may think when you start your business you’ll see if you get some traction first, then you’ll think about doing a website. After all, you’ve got to bring in revenue before you should go through the time and expense, right? On the contrary, your website should be one of the first investments, if not the first investment you make in your business.
Creating the content for each page provides you a clearer picture of your goals, who your ideal customer is, and how you want to serve them. This process is beneficial to both you and your audience. The investment of your time is well spent in this area.
Your website is your home base in the Internet world. It is how people research to see not only what you offer, but they will also have the opportunity to get to know you better. Regardless of the size of your business or whether you provide a service or a product, have a physical location or not, your website is an essential piece in your marketing toolbox.
Social Media Does NOT Replace Your Website
Don’t make the mistake of creating a Facebook Page for your business and think that your website. It’s not the same thing. Social media platforms are distribution channels for your content. Posting on social media is like using “rented space” because you are using someone else’s platform. None of your social media accounts should be considered your website.
Your website is your digital home so purchase your domain own name. You have control over how your content will be written and how it will look. Invite people to come and visit through sharing content stored on your website. Again, remember social media platforms are a way to distribute, not your digital home.
Website Creation Fits Any Budget
You may avoid creating your website because you fear it will be crazy expensive. It doesn’t have to be. The truth is, you can spend as little or as much on a website that will fit your budget. You have the option of doing everything yourself, hiring a virtual assistant, or finding a programmer. Each level of service has a different level of investment considerations.
Your website doesn’t have to be complicated. Don’t get stuck and make the process harder than it really is. You can start out with these pages: Home, About, Services, Blog, Contact.
There are tools and people out there that will fit any budget. As you grow, so too will your budget for the resources you’ll want and need to invest on your website.
Update and Review
Websites are in a dynamic environment and should be updated and changed your business changes and evolves. Too many people complete their website design and rarely look at their own site. Make the effort to review your overall site regular basis. This gives you an opportunity to make sure everything looks right and the content is up-to-date.
You should add new content on a consistent basis using your blog. Your blog is essential for educating, informing, or entertaining your audience.
Remember, your website is your home base in Internet-land. Whether you have a brick and mortar business, are a freelancer, or a home-based business, your website educates people about who you are, what you offer and what you stand for.
Your website expands your opportunities. If someone is on the fence about whether to do business with you or not, the content you provide on your website could very well be the tipping point as to whether they’ll buy from you. Give them the opportunity to research you and say YES to what you have to offer. Allow them to get to know you better. Provide them the information that tells your story and how you can help them.
Take Action
Indeed you must invest time and money into your website, and in this day and age, it is a necessity. Take action and make sure your website reflects who you are and how you serve your customers. Use your website to be the go-to place for your customers and prospects becoming a valuable resource them.
If you are still apprehensive about getting starting with your website, feel free to contact us and let us know what’s holding you back. Sometimes a better understanding of the process and a little help from friends are all you need to get you moving on a project.