Whether you’re just starting a new business or have been around the business block a few times, one tool is absolutely crucial for success in the digital age – a killer website.
Before I jump in and explain all the important reasons why your small business needs a website, I want to share a really interesting statistic about this topic.
The Small Business Website Study
Back in 2021, GoDaddy conducted a study into small businesses located around Australia, including businesses situated in regional centers and capital cities.
Amazingly, that study found that 59 percent of small businesses (fewer than 20 employees) did not have a website. 59 percent!
Even more amazingly, of those small businesses that were in a regional area, they found that 65 percent of small businesses did not have a website. That’s 2 out of every 3 businesses that did not have a website!
The 3 main reasons provided for not having a website were:
- 44% believed that their business was too small.
- 30% claimed it was too expensive to have a website.
- 17% stated they did not have the time to build or manage a website.
Websites For Gympie Small Businesses
So, what do these statistics mean for small businesses in Gympie?
According to the Gympie Regional Council Economic Profile for 2022, the Gympie region had a total of 4849 registered businesses operating.
Of those 4849 businesses, 1719 were classified as small businesses (fewer than 20 employees).
With Gympie being a regional area, let’s use the above statistic of 65 percent of small businesses without a website.
I should have listened better to my high school maths teacher, so I’ll get my calculator out for this.
Assuming 65% of 1719 small businesses in Gympie do not have a website, that number comes to 1117.
1117 small businesses in the Gympie region do not have a website!
That is a lot of small businesses not catering to the fast-growing digital age.
That’s enough about statistics. If you are a small business owner and you’re still on the fence about getting a website, I will run through not one, not two, but ten quick reasons why your business desperately needs a virtual home.
1. The Digital Storefront: Open 24/7
Picture this: a storefront that never closes, never takes a coffee break, and never goes on vacation. That’s what a website is for your business. It’s your digital storefront, open round the clock, welcoming potential customers even when you’re catching some Zs.
2. First Impressions Count – Online!
In the digital realm, your website is your first impression. And as they say, first impressions stick. Imagine having a sleek, user-friendly website that shouts professionalism. That’s the kind of impression you want to leave on your potential customers.
3. The Great SEO Game: Be Found or Be Forgotten
Let’s talk SEO – Search Engine Optimisation. It’s not just a fancy term, it’s the highway to your website. A well-optimised website means better visibility on search engines, making sure your business pops up when someone types those magic keywords.
4. It’s Where Your Customers Are Looking
When was the last time you flipped through the Yellow Pages, or even a physical magazine? Exactly. Your customers are online, searching for products or services like yours. A website puts you right where your customers are looking – on the internet.
5. Build Trust, Boost Credibility
Ever checked out a business online and felt a bit iffy because it didn’t have a website? You’re not alone. A website builds trust. It’s like a stamp of legitimacy that tells your customers you mean business – literally.
6. Showcase Your Brand’s Personality
Your website is not just a digital brochure, it’s your brand’s personality on display. From the colour scheme to the content tone, it’s a canvas to express who you are. Don’t miss the chance to showcase the unique flavour of your business.
7. Expand Your Reach – Beyond Borders
With a website, you’re not limited to a physical location. The digital world is your playground, and your website is the ticket to a global audience. Ready to expand beyond the local market? A website is your passport.
8. Seamless Customer Support
Ever wished you could assist your customers while sipping your morning coffee? With a website, you can. FAQs, chat support, contact forms – it’s customer support that doesn’t require a desk or a phone.
9. The Analytics Advantage
How many people visited your physical store yesterday? Hard to say, right? With a website, you get the power of analytics. Track visitors, understand their behaviour, and use data to make informed business decisions.
10. Your Competitors Probably Have One
Here’s the reality check – your competitors that are killing it, likely have websites. If you don’t, you’re missing out on potential customers who are choosing the convenience of online interactions. Don’t let your competitors snatch up those opportunities!
Ready to Dive In?
So, there you have it – ten easy-to-digest, rock-solid reasons why your small business needs a website. Whether you’re a budding startup or a seasoned player, having a virtual presence is not just an option, it’s a necessity.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the digital world, set up your digital storefront, and watch your business soar to new heights! Get in touch with us!