Frequently Asked Questions... and Answers
Are all small business websites used for advertising?
February 8, 2009
The simple answer is “No”, but it’s not a strong no. Therefore, I feel my answer needs some elaboration.
You can see that the typical small business website is used for advertising but, not all. A new customer of mine, a Home Re-modeler, has all of the work he can handle - and can have more for the asking. Yet he was very interested in presenting his finished projects on a website. He plans on using the site as an on-line showcase, just to show customers the available options.
However, even though he has all the work he can handle, the new website is bringing in new prospects. What a great position to be in - especially in the economy!
Why is it so important for your business to have a website?
February 4, 2009
From: http://www.design4dot.com
Listed below you will find a number of reasons why we go over the advantages of having a website.
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Consumers search for products and services online before making purchases. Being found on the Internet will give you an advantage over your competition when they call you instead of the competition. |
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You are able to conduct business when it is convenient for your client whether it be during the day or in the middle of the night. You are never actually closed. If you choose an e-commerce website, your customers can shop with you 24 hours. |
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Consumers can become educated about your business and get answers to many of their questions which will help to cut back on the number of phone calls you receive with this information on your website.. |
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Your website can provide further support to existing customers by offering information such as troubleshooting procedures, product specification and parts list, how-to procedures, diagrams, and special help lines. By having this help available 24 hours a day you will be able to decrease the number of customer service employees you have on staff. |
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There is potential for your website to become a resource of information for the public. By supplying helpful tips and articles that are relevant to your industry, you will give visitors a reason to come back to your website.. |
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Consumers have more confidence in and prefer doing business with companies that they know something about. Inform visitors about the structure of your company, of your community involvement, the products and services you offer, awards, and employment opportunities. |
Maybe I don’t need a website?
February 3, 2009
There probably are a few small business owners that just don’t need a website, but not many.
Let’s say that your company has all of the customers it needs, your phone never stops ringing, your customers like you and your work, and they keep coming back for more. In that situation, how would a website help? To answer this I must first point out that a website can provide advantages other than advertising.
It can be an on-line reference to pass on information that would otherwise take up your time on the telephone. The information could be your business hours, your next opening in the schedule, the scope of projects you’re willing to take on. Then when they call, they are ready to place an order.
The website can offer a gallery of completed projects. For example, if you’re a house painter you can show a few before and after pictures. Again this will save you the time it takes to go over that on the phone - and it’s visual.
In short, your site can be an inexpensive way to save time. But for most of us it becomes a business expander.
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