Why a Website?

With our economy in a recession we have a tendency to tighten our belts and avoid extra expenses. However, as the market shrinks, it’s even more important to attract new business and keep current clients.

What’s the most cost-effective means of promotion?  A Website.

Why do I need a website?
First, the public expects businesses and organizations to have a website—one that can at least supply basic information and a way to contact you. Websites have become as essential as a telephone or printed brochure.

Other that satisfying the public’s expectations, a website will also help you business increase profits. People search the web more than the Yellow Pages when looking for a service or product. If they don’t find your business, they WILL find your competition!

How can a website help me…Let’s take a look!

• A website helps printed ads become more effective. You can add the website address to an ad and anyone intrigued by the ad can access more information about your company. The outcome is heightened when you add photos to your site

• Save Time. Much company time and effort is wasted by repeating the same information by phone or in person. You can add a section to your site that provides the answers to frequently asked questions.

• Make it easier for prospective customers to locate you by adding a detailed road map to your physical location on your website.

Will a website make my business more successful immediately?

Does a phone or brochure? All are tools for communication and promotion that need to be used effectively. However, neglecting to have one of these tools can put your company at a serious disadvantage. No company operates without a phone. A website-and the services it can offer- is just a crucial for business in the 21st century.
To get some indication of how soon your company needs a site, you should check the web and see what your competitors are doing. If none of them have a website yet, you’re lucky and have some time to work on it, and you also have a good shot at being the first to attract new clients. If your competitors already have a website, you need to get to work and fast!
What are some examples of how a website will help my business?
The possibilities are limited only by the imagination and resources. The following are some benefits that can be provided by the simplest, most basic site:

Restaurants
People choose restaurants not only for food, but also for their atmosphere and convenience.

• Show pictures of the interior and entrees on a magnificently set table.
• Post good reviews and testimonials from satisfied customers.
• Show your menu
• Advertise specials and services like business lunches, catering, online reservations, etc.
• Include a printable map, which shows location and parking lots.

Professional services (attorney, doctor, and dentist)
A web site is especially valuable for these services.  Here is an accepted way of presenting your areas of specialization.  On your website you can cite publications, display awards, or post articles and case studies that demonstrate your credentials.

Design services (architect, interior designer, home renovator, illustrator, etc.)
Have you heard the saying “a pictures worth a thousand words.”  Well, here it’s could potentially be worth a million.   Before and after pictures can showcase your work – without the cost of color printing and distribution.

Realty Services
Don’t allow your listings to be clouded by the lackluster of the MLS. If you have a home that you want to stand out, your website is the place for it. Have high quality photos taken of your best listings that show the home for what it really is, provide high quality video walkthrough’s, and supercharge your selling potential.

Retail Stores
A site can effectively endorse your business, even if you’re not ready for the expense of full-blown e-commerce.  A user-friendly site is easily done and can save thousands in printing and mailing costs.

• You can advertise sales and special offers.
• Post positions available and let prospects contact you through e-mail.
• Post a printable map showing your location.
• Customer service is faster and friendlier when customers can contact you immediately, 24 hours a day, by e-mail.

Writers

• Post clips with copyright information, and refer editors to this page in your queries.
• Promote published books.
• Advertise and sell books from your site via an affiliate link to an online seller such as Amazon or Barnes & Noble.  You can earn up to 15% in referral fees, as well as royalties.

Non-profit Organizations
When you are involved with fundraising it is imperative to establish credibility by document your organization’s growth, achievements and contributions.  Once your site is launched and properly registered with search engines you may be found by sectors of the public that otherwise would not know about your cause.
Can I afford a website?
Depending on the specifics of each individual site, prices widely vary.  When considering the benefits that even the simplest web site can provide, the question to ask is not “Can I afford to have a web site?” but “Can I afford not to have one!”