How Important is it to Have a Website For Your Business?

These days we are all used to looking up information on the Internet. With almost a billion live websites, we have a plethora of data at our fingertips. It’s commonplace for businesses to have an online presence. You’re likely to find a site for all sizes of companies out there.

But, how important is it to have a website for your business? And can your business succeed without one? Many businesses don’t yet have a website. As you can imagine, the degree of “success” they enjoy will vary for many reasons.

Here’s why:

Many people use websites as a measure of trust

Believe it or not, having a website can increase consumer confidence in your brand. Many potential customers will go online to research a company before buying. That’s because they want to learn if they are legitimate and offer excellent customer service.

Consumers perceive how trustworthy a company is by looking at their website. They can learn all kinds of useful information, such as the firm’s name and trading address. They can also work out whether the products and services offered are “fit for purpose.”

These days it’s important even for sole traders to have a website. Most of us go online each day and will often research a brand on the Internet.

A virtual store open for business 24/7

Few companies operate on a 24-hour basis to the general public. It’s easier for companies to have a virtual storefront. A website gives consumers the chance to do business with you even when you’re in bed asleep!

Firms without a site are less likely to receive orders and enquiries from customers. That’s because most people don’t want to wait until the company next opens up to contact them.

Your website can make your brand memorable

You might not think it, but sometimes websites can be more memorable than brands! When you set up a new site, it pays to have an eye-catching website design. It also pays to have it accessible on a variety of devices like smartphones.

If you don’t have a website, some of your future customers may go elsewhere for their needs. Given the low cost of setting a new site up, it makes sense to have an online presence.

Websites offer consumers a convenient way to pay

At present your business may accept payment over the phone or via mail order. You may even have a retail outlet for people to buy goods and services in person. But, what about those that want to place orders from home?

When you have a website, and you sell on it, you offer your customers a convenient way to pay. At any time of day or night, they can place an order with you and pay using a debit or credit card. Many e-commerce retailers offer account facilities to customers as well.

Let’s also not forget that some of your customers may not have the physical means to buy from you in person. It’s no secret that the Internet offers a wealth of opportunities and convenience for people.