Running a successful business? Wondering if you need a website or not? You’re not the only one. We’ve been asked this question multiple times by small business owners.
The most commonly asked questions include:
- Do I need a website to start my business?
- Can I run a business without a website?
- Is website necessary for a startup?
So, we finally decided to come up with a complete guide that answers all these questions.
To put it briefly, the answer is yes. You should have a business website. Out of all the times for owning a business website, the current time is the best. The era of digitization is on top of us, and businesses that don’t take advantage will be left behind.
Can I Run a Business Without a Website?
The answer to this business depends on the type of business you have. If you have a local grocery shop, then you don’t need a website. There’s no need for you to promote your business online. However, if you have a business where you want to sell your product or service to as many people as possible, having a website is crucial.
Consider your website as a digital home for your business. If you’re selling designer and novelty tees, people would want to see what your products look like.
Not everyone can come to your store. So, how can you show the world what you’ve got? That’s where a website for business comes in handy.
While you can run a business without a website, you’ll be limited to a particular location.
To answer the question, “can I run a business without a website?” is both yes and no.
Is Website Necessary For a Startup?
Another question that we get asked often is “is a website necessary for a startup?”
Well, the truth about today’s world is that most startups can’t survive without the right amount of promotion. To be able to raise funds, get more eyes on the brand, and sell the product/services, you need a website.
This requirement becomes even more important when you’re trying to sell something online.
How Much Does It Cost To Start a Website For Small Business?
Now, this is one question that is asked more than anyone else. As small businesses have a tight budget, they can’t go around spending money. Most small business owners consider having a website an unnecessary expense.
That’s because they don’t understand the importance of having a business website. A website can bring in sales, and leads, and just build a brand name for your business.
Plus, the cost of building a website costs anywhere between $50 – $1,000. It all comes down to the type of website you want.
If it’s just a single-page website, then the cost will be minimal. If it’s an enterprise-level website with tons of customization, then the cost goes up.
For small businesses just starting their journey, understanding “how much does it cost to start a website for small business” is crucial.
In case you want to know the exact cost of your business, you can reach out to our experts for a free quote.
Can You Have a Website Without Registering Your Business?
Absolutely. There’s no condition that you have to register your business to own a website. You can get your domain from GoDaddy.com, or other domain-selling websites.
All you have to do is search for a domain name you like, pay for it, and that’s it. You now have a website. With a few tweaks and customization, you now have a website that represents your business.
Top Reasons Why You Need a Website for Your Business
Now you have the answer to all the common questions, are you ready to get your website started? Here are some reasons that may convince you to start a business website.
- Adds A Sense of Professionalism
Consumers of today trust businesses that have a website compared to those that don’t. According to some data, 84% of today’s consumers think that a business is credible if they have a website.
You can use your website to showcase anything that you think sets you apart from the crowd.
Apart from that, having your website also allows you to use a branded email address. Such as name@yourbusinessname.com.
This helps customers believe that they’re talking to the real brand and not someone fake.
- Your Website Is Gateway to More Traffic
You may be getting enough customers for your business, but what’s the harm in having more customers? A website allows you to do just the same. To make sure your business keeps growing, you need to get as many customers as you can.
Just having a website isn’t enough, you need to employ great search engine optimization techniques as well to grow your business. Ideal SEO techniques are the best way to make your business appear in front of as many people as possible.
The term “Search Engine Optimization” may sound complicated and mentally exhausting, but it’s pretty simple once you get the hang of it. You just need to target your business according to your product and services.
- Allows You to Showcase Your Products and Services
You can show all the website visitors what you have to offer and what they can expect when they start working with you.
You can use your website’s design and images to showcase images if there are any. Plus, you can use your website’s landscape to provide important information about your brand.
If you’re selling a machine, then you can add safety tips that you should follow while using the machine.
- Build Trust With a Website
There’s a great practice that you can use to establish your brand as trustworthy. You can showcase the reviews left by your previous customers so new visitors can learn about others’ first-hand experience with your brand.
If your business has recently been in an article from a newspaper or has been published on famous blogs, you may want to use that opportunity. You can show those blogs on your website and establish trust.
- Websites Encourage Customers to Contact You
You can leave your personal information on the website so potential customers can reach out to you. You can add the information on the footer and banner so it appears on every page.
- Direct Foot Traffic to Your Business
You can integrate Google Maps into your website so potential customers can come and visit the physical location. While most customers prefer the convenience of a website compared to physical businesses. Some customers may want to visit your business directly. So, having a Google map is helpful.
An embedded map in your website makes it possible for customers in your area to find your business.
- Your Website Helps You Make a Name In Your Industry
By the end of 2021, more than 71% of all businesses had a website, and 81% of customers research online before buying anything. Moreover, if your competitors are online and you aren’t it means that you’re losing possible customers to your competitors.
Having an online website presence allows you to share what your business is about. You can connect with customers, establish your role in the industry, and more.
Final Verdict: Do I Need a Website To Start My Business or Not?
Hopefully, by now you’ve realized the importance of having a website for small businesses. You need to stop asking “do I need a website for my business” and ask the question if you can afford to not have a website.
Trying to grow a business in today’s time without a website is next to impossible. More and more customers today want products and services online. Chances are that most of your competitors are online, and if you aren’t online, you’re missing out.
If you’re ready to get started, then start by choosing a domain name, building a website, and then choosing an SEO that helps you sell your products and services.
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