Taking the leap to run a website can be daunting. Like really scary stuff. It seems like a LOT of money... and, what use is having a website when I can use social media? Or the classic: my mate can make a free one, why should I pay for one? (well - unless your mate is a web designer, keep reading!)
6 key benefits of a website
1. It's open 24/7.
When you're picking up the kids or juggling a phone call on site - someone will be looking at your website. They can browse your store or work projects, they can learn about your services, they can buy products even if you have a physical store that is closed. And the best bit: they can contact you quietly and you don't have to juggle another phone call at 6pm. Your site is open all day, every day. It's a salesperson working overtime so you don't have to.
2. A website makes you have credibility.
Want authority? Get a website. Have you ever wondered if someone is legit in business as they are in their social stories? That's where a website comes in! Not only does it show exactly who you are, what you do, what you offer and where you are based; it also gives proof that others use you, and there are photos to prove it. Plus, it actually helps Google too... the biggest search engine ranks you and if you don't exist or meet it's criteria, down the rank you go. If you don't have a great functioning website, you will have a hard time bringing in customers. Word of mouth is great - but that word will spread to someone who hasn't met you and wants to cross-check you.
3. Optimise your story
Your website can have Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) set up and naturally built in - this is what ranks your site in those searches you do online all the time. A well-structured website, thoughtfully planned out with your designer's guidance will set the baseline for this. SEO keywords and a suitable amount of content will guide your ranking on key search engines (think: Google, Duck Duck Go, Bing, Yahoo and more). Without a website - you're missing out on options to knock your rivals out of the park.
Your story is the biggest play card you have. When we work SEO into that, your website attracts the right audience. When we lean into this, not only does the SEO write itself, but it gives you the edge over your competitors.
4. Cost-effective method of marketing
Okay, yes the upfront cost can be scary. But really - think about how much work that translates to. It might be a few hours of work, or 1-2 products, or just 1 lead to a new project. That's all! Once you hit those milestones, it starts working for you and it truly is an investment into your business for the longterm. You can use SEO (or have it setup for you!) as well as collect all traffic coming in from social media or other avenues too. You can use it as a link to base email promotions to a page, or direct customers to a new project showcase. The list goes on!
5. Your digital footprint is your brand.
No website, no existence. Bad website, well that'll get judged on how well someone can find the info or read your website on a phone! Whatever you post online is connected to your brand. If your website is mediocre and doesn't paint the full picture of what you do, chances are - you won't get a second chance. Take this opportunity to really build your brand well and let the website do the heavy lifting, because a well designed site will be easy to read, easy to find and easy to make contact with.
6. You own your website. You don't own social media.
Social media could close overnight. Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, etc. Poof. Then what would you do?
A social platform is a tool to complement your website and offline brand, not be the cornerstone. If a potential client is looking for a business to engage with, they'll search online. If they don't have a social account, it's likely that they won't click on a Facebook or TikTok link. A website should be the hub - the point of everything online for your business, and then connect out like a web to other things like social media or other advertising avenues.
You own your website, and that's probably the strongest case to make for having one. You own it. It can't be removed if a social media company decided to close or pivot. It makes sense to invest in one thing that you can actually own.
