One of the most common questions asked by our readers is this. Does my small business really need a website? A lot of our readers are running small, independent, local companies. Their customer base is predominantly the local residents, and they focus on real-life products or services. So, isn’t it a waste of money to build and maintain an online presence? Our answer is a simple, and resounding, no – it’s not a waste of money. In fact, it’s the best investment you’ll make this year. No matter what your business, you’ll benefit from a website. Here’s why you should make it a priority for 2016.

Source: https://flic.kr/p/ATf3fS

It’s easier than you think

One of the most common complaints we hear time-and-time again is that people don’t know how to build a website. They think it’s too complicated to run it, and too tricky to create one from scratch. The reality is quite different. You can create a unique website in just one weekend. You can probably get started in a spare evening. Website-building platforms are now simpler than ever, with drag and drop design, and easy set-up. You don’t need to know any code, and you don’t need to be a design genius.

Brand awareness

Your customer might have seen your local business around town. Perhaps they’ve seen your logo on leaflets and signs. Maybe they’ve heard your name in passing. But remember, your customers also have an online life. On average, we spend over six hours online every single day. Wouldn’t you like your customers to see your brand name online too? Some marketers claim that potential customers need to see your branding eight times before they’ll buy from you. The internet is another way to get your name in front of them.

More customers

Quite simply, you’ll reach more customers with an online presence. If you run a small boutique store in town, you can complement that with an online shop. By doing this, you’ll reach customers outside your local town. You’ll expand your audience, and grow your business. This will work in the service industry too. If you’re a plumber or electrician, you can extend your business to the neighboring towns and areas.

24/7 Business

Without a website, you shut up your doors at 5pm, and business is done for the day. If you run a website, that business will keep on ticking overnight. Your website will make money while you’re asleep! You’ll continue to process payments and receive emails. Potential customers can still browse your store, and read about your company. With a website, your business never sleeps.

Low barrier to entry

With a website, it’s easier than ever for customers to engage with you for the first time. They can browse your website without pressure to buy, and they get to know your products. It’s a lower barrier to entry than picking up the phone or walking into the store. In the long-run, this will generate a lot more customers.

Make a website your business priority in 2016. You won’t regret it!