Here are a few mind-blowing stats that prove how consumers are searching and finding brands online:

• Google gets over 8.5 billion searches a day.
• 59% percent of all web traffic comes through mobile phones.
• Half of internet users say that they use website design as a factor to formulate their opinion on a business.
• Local searches lead 50% of mobile visitors to visit stores within one day.
• In 2021, an estimated 64% of all in-store sales were influenced by the internet.

1. Websites build credibility

A well-designed website can establish credibility and legitimacy for your business, which are key to growing a successful brand. When potential customers are looking for a product or service, 81% of shoppers conduct online research before making a purchase. If your business does not have a website, you are missing out on an opportunity to showcase your brand and what you have to offer, help build trust and make a positive first impression.

2. Websites get you noticed

Unless you’re online, chances are customers won’t know you exist. More than 5 billion people use the internet every day, and some 90% of those have purchased something, or contacted a company, online in the last 12 months. For shopping, entertainment and booking appointments, more and more people are turning to their smartphones first. This makes it essential for entrepreneurs to think digitally in order to succeed in the long run. By using search engine optimization (SEO) techniques, you can improve your website’s ranking on search engines like Google, leading to more traffic to your website and ultimately more business.

3. Keep up with the competition

To set your business up for success, you need to remove any competitive disadvantages. Local services are already targeting your customers through the internet. 89% of people admitted to searching for a local business on their smartphone once a week or more with 58% searching daily (Hubspot). The internet may be vast but it is indispensable in creating local connections. If a customer can easily find a local business, quickly fill out an online form to book the service they need, or buy a product with a few clicks, they are far more likely to book than if they need to call or come in to speak to someone directly.

4. Provides 24/7 availability

Unlike a physical office or store, your website runs 24/7 without any supervision or need to lock it up. That means you’re always open for business. Given consumer behaviour we know they now expect all businesses, even local entrepreneurs, to be available online all times, whenever they’re needed. If a consumer can’t find you when they’re searching online, they’ll find some else.  Businesses hours don’t apply in a digital world. A website establishes continuous access to your network, and unmatched potential to grow your business.

5. Builds loyalty & facilitates customer engagement

A website can also facilitate customer engagement and interaction. Through your website, you can provide a platform for customers to leave reviews, ask questions, provide feedback and get support. This can help you build a loyal customer base and improve your business’s reputation. A supportive referral network is essential for brand recognition and for business growth. 88% of consumers trust online reviews as much as recommendations from friends and family (BrightLocal), and customers spend 31% more with a business that has “excellent” reviews (Invesp). When over 77% of consumers have consulted online reviews before hiring a local service professional at least once, it’s clear that businesses need a website to control their online reputation, and influence potential customers.

6. Websites level the playing field

A business website with a well-developed digital marketing strategy can stand shoulder to shoulder with the big guys. Well established businesses that previously held a majority are now rapidly losing markets share to smaller online entrepreneurs. Almost half of consumers would pay more to a local business in order to support their community, and an astounding 96% of consumers believe that local businesses beat national chains on personalizing service (Bluehost). You may have little chance of building bigger skyscrapers, but a professionally designed website can break down market barriers and give you a strong foothold.

7. Provides a platform for marketing

A website provides a platform for marketing your business. You can use your website to promote your products or services, offer promotions and discounts, and share information about your business. You can also use your website to build an email list and send newsletters or promotional emails to your customers.

So, what are you waiting for? You need a website. We should get started now. Let us show you how to optimize your website to help you maximize your ROI.