Why do I need a website for my small business?
Updated: Sep 20, 2022
As small business owners, sometimes we question whether we need to be doing what the larger mainstream companies are doing. When looking at marketing for a small business, I believe the two most valuable assets you will ever have are your website and social media presence!
To be found in your local market, you need to actually be PRESENT. These days, being present isn't just having a store front downtown. Everyone is looking online before they head downtown, and if your business isn't visible in their search - you can kiss that client goodbye. If this isn't reason enough to make sure you have an online presence, I've listed a few more!
Customers EXPECT all businesses to have a website
A professional website can make you look more reputable
You can control the branding and message
A website is more affordable than traditional marketing
Gain competitive advantage
A website is EASY to keep up to date these days
I know many small business owners think they don't have the time, skills or budget to build a website - but I am here to tell you it is WORTH IT to hire a local professional. The return you will see from search engine exposure alone is well worth the expense, especially if you support another local business and AVOID big agencies.
Now let me add some context to the reasons I listed above -
1. Customers EXPECT small businesses to have a website
This is true! As a consumer, I always gravitate toward businesses with a website (okay, maybe I am a little bias as a website designer...) But really, most consumers do research online before they ever step foot in your shop. If you don't have a website, you are sending the message that you are possible out of business or out of touch with the new digital age. These are messages you don't want to be sending.
2. A professional website can make you look more reputable
This reason goes hand in hand with the first. As consumers are becoming more savvy online, they are more likely to trust a business that has an updated functional website design. Other markers of trustworthiness can be a custom domain and SSL certification.
3. You can control the branding and message
Having a website for your small business instantly creates a digital presence, that you can control. While it's great to have reviews and comments on other sites, it is imperative that you display and link all of your information in one creative space!
4. A website is more affordable than traditional marketing
Yeah, you read that right! The cost of a small business website is far less than most traditional marketing methods. On top of that, the longevity of your website will surpass the small window of advertising you purchased and give you a wider reach. Over the years, website designs have actually become more affordable. Small business web designers are using more intuitive platforms, cutting down the amount of hours needed to complete a project!
5. Gain competitive advantage
There are a shocking number of small businesses without a website. If you are in direct competition with another small business that has a website, they have a CLEAR advantage. A website for your business can help level the playing field, and if done right can pull you ahead.
6. A website is EASY to keep up to date
Since the new digital age has made leaps and bounds, so has the ability to build and maintain a website for your small business. Before it probably took weeks for a developer to build a website and after it was done you couldn't make changes yourself. Simple things like updating your business hours would be a hassle.
Today, it is a completely different story! At Rocky Ridge Digital, I exclusive build websites on the Wix platform. This platform gives my clients the ability to log in and easily navigate making quick changes and photo updates. Once I complete a web design, the keys are handed over. I know it sounds scary, but it's very easy to use once the site is built. (I also provide some how-to tips)
All in all: every small business needs a website! The benefits and ROI far outweigh the upfront cost. If you are interested in small business website pricing from Rocky Ridge, you can request a quote!
Lizzy Keller
Founder of Rocky Ridge Digital - my name is Lizzy Keller, and I am a website designer and small business branding expert. With over 7 years of experience, I specialize in helping small businesses with their branding and Wix website design!
Follow me on Instagram! @RockyRidgeDigital