With many businesses now turning to social media and digital ad spend, you might be questioning whether a website in 2020 is necessary. In fact, 35% of small businesses think their business is too small to need one.

A vast majority of businesses do need a well thought out, optimised digital marketing strategy and a website is a vital part of this. Over 4 billion people are using the internet, and over 5 billion internet searches are made per day on Google alone. Consumers expect local businesses, regardless of size, to have an online presence. Online is where your customers are searching for you!

There are many ways in which a website could benefit your customers and you, so here are 7 reasons why you should consider having one in place.

Showcase your business and make a great first impression

First impressions count! A business with a physical store relying on people coming in from the street still has people searching for it online before they even leave the house. Your website is where you can showcase your business in its best light, describing who you are, what you do, and what your customers like about you. 83% of small businesses with a website think it gives them a competitive advantage. It also allows you to be in full control of your own content to paint the best picture of your business.

Build connections and trust

A website is a fantastic opportunity to build connections and establish long-term relationships and trust with your customers. 84% of consumers think businesses with websites have more credibility. A website not only provides a professional touch but also personal one. You can use your website to generate email subscribers and offer new ways to communicate with your audience.

Your business is never closed

Your website is accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It can still be operating even when your business is not physically open after-hours. When you are not physically available to interact with people looking to do business with you, your website is accessible and able to provide helpful information, serve as a point of contact or even allow customers to make purchases or submit orders at the click of a button.

Help customers find you

Two thirds of customers research online before shopping. Good websites are not just about online sales though, providing simple details such as a phone number, email address or a physical address with directions and a map to your business, can make a world of difference to your customers when they want to locate you quickly.

Reach a global audience

Your website is accessible from anywhere. Even if you are an exclusively local business, your website can help you reach more potential customers than word of mouth and local advertising. It can expose your products and services globally!

Stay ahead of the competition

A large majority of small businesses have a presence online, so it is likely that your competitors have a website that is appealing to potential customers in your area. If you want to stay relevant, forward-thinking, and competitive within your field, it is important that your brand and business is at the forefront of the competition.

Higher Google ranking on mobile devices

4 out of 5 consumers use search engines for local information. A search engine such as Google favours local businesses when people are searching via their mobile phones. This is because they assume people are moving around and looking for businesses within proximity. By making sure your website is optimised for mobile means that you can take advantage of appearing higher up the results page. This increases the chances of your ideal customer discovering you in that one moment they are searching for your services, thus increasing the likelihood of them getting in touch.

In conclusion, if you own a local business, it is essential for you to have a strong digital marketing strategy. With a well-designed, optimised website you can reach a new audience of potential leads who can not only become your customers, but also loyal ambassadors for your brand.