The Internet can feel overwhelming when you think about taking your business online. It’s clear that the Internet has become a main source for information and reviews on products and services. If you have a small business, there are likely people discussing it online. There are endless possibilities when it comes to starting an online business, allowing you to reach customers you might not have been able to reach otherwise.
Here’s a few reasons to convince you that its time to move your business online.
Its super simple and cheap to have a website
There are many DIY web builders that allow future website owners to easily create and manage their own sites. With platforms like WordPress, you can access hundreds of free website templates to build, customize, and oversee your own site. These user-friendly web builders let you launch your business website in just a few minutes, with minimal tech knowledge needed.
You’re already a hot topic
As mentioned earlier, even if you don’t have an online presence its highly likely that your customers are already talking about your business online. It’s important to create a portal that invites this conversation whether through a comments section on your company blog or a discussion board. If a customer is frustrated or upset they can tell the world in a matter of seconds, and if your company isn’t there to make amends this feedback can be the only thing potential customers see when they search your business in Google.
Having a website won’t prevent negative comments being made, but it helps you control the conversation and allows your business to demonstrate its commitment to your customers through resolving the issue and not shying away from the problem.
Potential customers can find you
Majority of consumers will research a company online before they do business. If your business does not feature in search engines its likely to deter potential customers and point them in the direction of a competitor that has an online presence. By having an online presence namely through a website, not only are your customers finding you, but you are also opening the doors to new customers that may stumble upon your site from search engine searches.
At the end of the day it is vital to have a website for your business. If you don’t already have one, then there are plenty of places to help get you started. Why not check out WordPress’s free website templates (http://theme.wordpress.com/) and get your new site started!