Does My Local Business Really Need a Website?

Think back to the last time you used a phone book.  Yes, they’re still in existence, and on occasion they’re convenient if you know just what you need.  But the simplicity of finding a business on the Internet with the use of search engines means that less people use phone books when they search for products and services.  So many businesses yet to have a good website, or have no website at all.  This is a big mistake you can fix.  Prospective customers are always searching the Internet for products and services.  Here are some small business website myths unveiled:

I don’t have adequate staff to maintain the website.

This concern is legitimate since a website with old content and out of date information is a poor reflection on your company.  The good news is that it’s actually really easy to update your website.  Many Content Management Systems make this task simple so don’t worry about adequate staffing.

It costs too much to create a website.

Not in every case.  There are lots of websites that can be created for a reasonable price that in turn drive new customers to your business.  It is true that the more pages your website has, the larger the investment is.  But it’s an investment that can help lead your business to success on a much

Photo Resource: cheapwordpresswebsites.com

larger scale.

I can get away with using a free, simple website.

A website that’s like a brochure – one that contains a Home page, About Us, hours and a contact us page isn’t quite enough.  It’s pretty boring and not the least bit engaging.  The web is an interactive visual medium that provides small business owners the chance to really interact with its customers.  Use sound and create a website that will do your business some good.

SEO stuff is confusing.

SEO stands for search engine optimization and yes it can be confusing if you’re not familiar with it.  However, all that it refers to is the use of words and phrases on your website that your customers would likely use when they search for products and services in a search engine.  They search for products that you offer, and because you wrote your website with those key phrases, the web will lead them to your website.  It’s that simple!  Start by creating a list of possible phrases or have an analysis of what people are searching so you know the keywords you should focus on as you create your website.  Optimized keywords will raise your website to a higher ranking on Google and Yahoo too.

As a small business, you need to take advantage of the benefits of a website.  A website provides a perfect opportunity to be there when prospective customers are searching for a product or service that you offer.  A website is a way to drive customers to your business, earning additional revenue and creating more loyal customers at the same time.

Lori is a work-at-home mom living in Noblesville, a suburb of Indianapolis.  She is mom totwo young children and enjoys spending time watching them grow.  Lori enjoys shopping, spending time with her husband and kids, reading, and traveling. Feel free to leave her a comment.