Does your business need a website?

Posted by gigglemedia under Business operation, Web design and development

“Just because everyone is doing it doesn’t mean you should too” – this is the first thing you need to embrace in order to be a successful business person.

Why you should have a website

A website is an online presence that let’s everyone one know you are there. Having a physical shop front or office space is one thing but you are not there 24-7. A website gives your customers access to you all day, every day, at any time.

Your website is an asset

A lot of people underestimate the value of a well designed website. Your business website is an asset and it is simply not good enough to ask your friend’s son who studied computers one semester to whip up a sloppy website for you.

In fact, an ugly and poorly designed site will give potential customers the impression you are unprofessional and amateur. In our opinion, have no website is preferable a dodgy hack job with lazy graphics, mismatched typefaces and no cohesive brand.

Like any business asset, you need to invest in the planning, development and design of your website. A website doesn’t have to be expensive but it needs to be done by a professional. Take time to look at your options, make the right decision first and save the headache later.

Nature of businesses

Different businesses will have different requirements on their website because of the way you run your business, the service/product you provide, your location and your target customers.

For service providers like doctors, accountants, hair dressers etc a website allows your customers to find out your services, opening hours, map your location and share your website with friends and family.

If you run a cafe or restaurant etc, you will want a website to promote your menu, weekly specials and allow customers to book functions or catering.

If you own a bookshop, cosmetic shop, tool shop etc you might want a website that has an online store, a gallery of your products, a space to announce promotions, and a system that allows customers to review the products.

We could go on with examples, the point is – your business is unique, you need a website that reflects your needs and your customer’s needs.

Don’t follow trends, just because…

Depending on the nature of your business, your website may only need a page of content with contact details, opening hours and a few images. For businesses that are based online, then you definitely need an online shop or quoting service, gallery of products and services.

But if you think your business websites needs a blog, forum, facebook, Twitter just because everyone else has one, then you are very mistaken.

Social media and networking outlets are good for driving traffic but takes a lot of time and effort on your part to maintain fresh regular content. Before taking the plunge with add-on features to your website, speak to your designer or developer about how they can help you.

The worse thing you could do is pay for a service you won’t use.

Questions you need to ask

• How will a website benefit my business?
• Who can deliver my website both professionally and meet my budget?
• What is it costing me if I don’t have a website?
• If any, how much time do I have to dedicate to my website
• How can I grow my business with my website asset?

If you are looking to get a website or would like some help with your existing website, give us Giggle Media call on 1800 288 096 or drop us an email.