It is fairly common in the labor industry for small companies and self-employed tradesmen to conclude they do not need a website. They think that a web presence would not significantly add to their business, and is more trouble than it is worth. Here are 2 important reasons why establishing a presence on the internet is important for any biz.
1. 79.9% of Households Have Internet Access*
The internet is where your new and existing customers are. Every business, no matter the size, needs a web presence. An estimated 70% of Americans shop online.
You may have a local clientele that you have built through word of mouth. Without a web presence, you are missing a huge opportunity to strengthen the relationship. Plus, no business can grow without reaching people beyond its usual customer base. The internet is the perfect place to find potential patrons, and “being there” is smart marketing.
*According to the most recent numbers available in U.S. Census data from 2013, released in 2014.
2. A Web Presence is a Sign of Professionalism
Modern consumers expect a company to have a website. Fair or not, it is a reality that any business without a web presence is viewed as “amateurish” or “suspicious.” It takes so little of an investment to start a website that many buyers assume any company without one is not taking its business seriously.
Having a website will make a hometown plumber, electrician, union carpenter or big city law firm more competitive. Be an available option when someone picks up their phone and searches for what you sell.
In Conclusion
Building a web presence comes at a relatively low cost and yields a continuing return on business investment like no other advertising can. It will allow you to tap into a much larger market and could be the key to expanding your business.
Cyrus McCormick was a 19th century co-creator of the mechanical reaper, used to harvest grain. His invention was well-known at the time. But the way he sold it made him more famous. McCormick used advertising, considered a non-traditional selling method for that industry, instead of pounding the pavement. It seems apropos.
Trying to do business without advertising is like winking at a pretty girl through a pair of green goggles. You may know what you are doing, but no one else does.
Be sure to read these tips before setting up social media profiles.