Western Web Technologies

Does your business need a website?

Consider us biased, but our unequivocal answer is: Yes! We hear the same objections, particularly from smaller businesses, all the time. Does this sound familiar?… my business is too small for a website; most of our customers are walk-ins; we're just a local business, why do we need to be on the web; we don't know how to market ourselves on the web. Anyway, here are 5 reasons why your small business absolutely needs a website.

The web is local. Initially, the web was (and still is) a fascinating place where you could discover people, products and services from around the world. However, in recent years the web, particularly Google, has been pushing for valid, relevant local results in their search results. In fact, as much as 97% of all consumers turn to the web to find local services.

Marketing and Educating. Your website never sleeps and never takes a vacation. It represents you 24 hours a day and potential customers can find information about your products and services at any time they wish. Plus, if you're doing it right, it also educates your customers about your industry, your products and your services. Don't miss this golden opportunity to do so.

Credibility. Customers expect you to have a website, and not just a "website", a good, professional website. We see many, many small business websites that look great…if they were created in 1997! When a customer sees a website that looks like it's fresh out of 1997 they just move on to one that does look professional and current. A well executed, informational, educational website will give you the credibility that makes customers feel warm and fuzzy and willing to do business with you.

Creating a dialogue with your customers. Once you've created a website that gives you credibility and you've captured your customers' attention, you now have the opportunity to create a running dialogue with your clients that was impossible before the web. Engaging your customers where they feel that they can be heard, provide feedback and see that they matter will create someone who becomes a cheerleader for your business.

Size doesn't matter. Whether you're a 1 person shop or a 1,000 employee business, the web helps level the playing field. In fact, I think smaller businesses have an advantage on the web because if you have a very professional website that engages your customers, they may even think your single person firm has 100 employees.

So as you can see, your website is one of your businesses' most valuable assets. Don't take it's importance lightly and make sure you take full advantage of it's potential to bring you more customers and engage your current customers.