I know you’re passionate about your business and you’ve probably poured countless hours into your brick-and-mortar store. But in this digital age, having an online presence is just as important. I’ve seen businesses here in the Bitterroot, especially during COVID, increase their sales by simply having an online presence.
In this article, I’m going to share with you:
- Why you need a website
- What makes a good website
- Why it’s best to hire a professional web designer instead of doing it yourself.
But first, let me tell you a little story.
I worked with Travis this past year on building his website. He was starting out as a new CPA and had a cozy office on Highway 93. But he knew he wasn’t going to be able to survive as a new business without having an online presence and a website.
Why You Need a Website
Having a website is like having a 24/7 storefront. It allows customers to learn about your business, browse your products, or even make a purchase at any time of the day. In fact, A BrightLocal survey revealed that 93% of consumers searched for local businesses online during the past year [source]. So, if you’re not online, you’re missing out on a huge potential customer base.
Going back to my client’s story, within a few months of launching his website, he noticed an increase in clients. They could easily find more information and had a place to learn more when they clicked on his Google Business Profile. His website served as an extension of his physical office, attracting new customers and keeping loyal ones informed.
What Makes a Good Website
A good website is like a friendly and helpful shop assistant. It should be easy to navigate, visually appealing, and provide all the information customers need. Here are some key elements of a good website:
- Responsive Design: Your website should look and function well on all devices, including desktops, tablets, and smartphones. It’s a fact that over 55% of online traffic comes from mobile devices [source], so make sure your website is mobile-friendly.
- Clear Navigation: Help your customers find what they’re looking for by having a well-organized menu and clear calls to action.
- Engaging Content: Keep your customers interested with high-quality content. Share your story, showcase your products, or provide valuable information related to your industry.
- Regular Updates: Keep your website fresh and exciting by regularly updating it with new content or promotions.
Why You Should Hire a Professional Web Designer
Now, I know you might be tempted to try and build a website yourself. There are plenty of DIY website builders out there (I hear you Wix and Squarespace!), and it might seem like a cost-effective solution. But as a professional web designer, I’ve seen countless business owners come to me after struggling with DIY websites. Here’s why you should consider hiring a professional instead:
- Expertise: I’ve spent years learning about web design, trends, and best practices. I can use this knowledge to create a website that looks great and functions well.
- Customization: DIY website builders are limited in their customization options. As a professional, I can create a tailor-made website that reflects your unique business and stands out from the competition.
- Time-Saving: I know you’re busy running your business and building a website can be time-consuming. Let me handle your online presence so you can focus on what you do best.
- SEO Optimization: I understand the importance of search engine optimization (SEO) and can implement strategies to improve your website’s ranking on search engines like Google.
- Mobile Responsiveness: As mentioned earlier, more people are browsing on their mobile devices. I can ensure your website is mobile-friendly, providing a seamless experience for all users.
- Ongoing Support: If you run into any issues or need updates, I’m here to help.
- Cost-Effective: While it may seem more expensive up front, hiring a professional can actually save you money in the long run. A well-designed website can increase your sales and customer loyalty.
Back to my client’s story, after we launched his website, his business continued to grow. He said, “All positive feedback so far. Lots of people like the layout and the simplicity to reach out to me and set up an appointment. I have received several new clients that reached out to me through the website.” You can read Travis’s full success story on my website.
So, what are you waiting for? Take your small business online and see the incredible impact it can have. If you’re ready to take the plunge, I’d be happy to help. Let’s set up a time that works for the two of us and we’ll have a conversation.
