
Customers now expect it and
think less of businesses that don’t have one!
Any business is now
expected
to have a website! If you don't, potential customers will certainly
wonder why - Is your business old-fashioned? Is it a fly-by-night
operation? Does it even still exist? Is it just a tiny operation? Can't
you afford a website?
"Over half of UK consumers (53%) would walk away from any business that
does not have a website, according to research commissioned by 1&1
Internet, one of Europe's largest web hosting and domain name
registration companies.
The survey also found that one in five small businesses still do not
recognise the importance consumers place upon a web presence.” -
The
Birmingham Post
Top 10 Reasons Why Your Business
Needs A Website
1. Your business is always open
Unlike your company's office that may be open from 9 to -5 your
company 's website is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Potential customers can visit you anytime that suits them. Without
a website you will be losing business to your competitors.
2. Your website is
your online shop-window that can be updated quickly and easily
A website is quicker, easier, and cheaper to update than printed
material. Its' capacities are almost limitless which allows you to
provide your visitors with more comprehensive information. This
can save you money on printing and distribution costs as well as
your printed materials can be made available for your clients to
download from your website.
3. Reach new markets
with a global audience
On the Internet, you aren't that local little business anymore.
You have the potential to be seen by millions across the globe.
Did you ever think your company would have the possibility of
doing business around the world? Well, now you can. Without a
doubt, the Internet is the most cost effective way to trade
nationally and internationally. New customers can find you whether
they are just down the road or on the other side of the world!
4. Improved customer
service
Your website can provide you customers with information they want
whenever they want it without having to wait until you are open
for business. They will greatly appreciate this and this will
enable you to get extra business that would otherwise have gone
elsewhere.
5. Present a
professional image
For a small business, a well-designed web site is a great way of
instilling confidence in your potential new customers. They will
expect you to have a website, it is seen as a courtesy to your
potential customers to enable them to find out about you when it
is convenient to them. Without a website you will lose business to
your competitors.
6. Market special
offers and promotions
Your website is a highly effective and affordable marketing tool.
Keep your customers coming back by offering "web specials" offers
and discounts that are only available to your website visitors.
7. Answer frequently
asked questions
There are questions
that customers and potential customers want to know the answer to
before they deal with you, for example, your opening hours, your
location, the services you offer. Post them onto your website and
you will have removed another barrier to their doing business with
you and it might free up some time if you are not answering phone
calls.
8. Gather
information and generate valuable leads
You can gather information about your customers and potential
customers by using forms and surveys. Rather than going out and
getting leads, let them come to you. This is a great tool for
prospecting targeted customers looking to use your products and
services.
9. Give your
customers instant gratification
These days if people have it in mind to do something they want to
be able to do it straight away.
So give your customers what they want when they want it. If your product is suitable,
offer them free samples or trials to download - this includes
pictures, brochures, software, videos, music
and more.
10. Great recruiting
tool
Whether you are looking for talent or posting job opportunities
with your company, your website is a great recruiting tool for
building your business.
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