10 Reasons Why You Need a Website

This is a guest article by James. If you're interested in writing for AkosBlog, check out the guidelines here.

One of the most important details in your business plan should be its Internet exposure. A website should echo your business philosophies, emphasize the best of what you have to offer; and is equally if not more important than the receptionist who greets your customers on the phone or in person.

If you’re still wondering whether or not to purchase a website, here are ten commanding reasons not to wait any longer:

Your customer expects you to have one; your web presence equals credibility. These days if you don’t have a company site then you are viewed as being a fly-by-night business, just as if you had no mailing address or phone number. Trust is everything when selling your services and products.
A website is by far the most affordable, cost effective way to market your business, both locally and worldwide. A 3-day column ad in your local paper will cost you much more than the monthly hosting and management of your own website.
Your website gives potential customers total 24/7 access to your company, across all time zones. Even if your doors aren’t physically “open,” anyone can read about who you are, what you do, things your company offers, prices, photos and more. They can fill out your inquiry form and know you will contact them when you get to work.
Your website becomes the ultimate source for your Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ); saving you hundreds of hours per year. You don’t have to keep making the same statements on the phone when your policies, terms and conditions, locations, hours, staff names, email addresses, departments, etc. are all clearly stated on your site.
Your competition has a website, and is getting your share of the market! If they do not have a site, then your site will give you the edge. It takes a little time to work up the line to a first page position on the search engines. You can pay for sponsor placement, etc., but a good website will naturally wind up near the top of page one, which is a better reference than a paid slot.
A website allows you to gather useful feedback and qualified leads, by using surveys, polls, questionnaires and contact forms. If you display these activities attractively on your site, most visitors will enjoy filling out and submitting them. They can do this in the privacy of their home, at any hour of the day or night; it’s the ultimate “let your fingers do the walking” comparative.
Promoting your company on the Internet levels the playing field. It gives customers a choice, and the more attractive and informative your site, the more likely they are to choose you. If you are a smaller company with only a couple of employees, you have the opportunity to “swim in the big pond” with the sharks.
Your website is your online “brochure,” which can easily be updated with fresh content; such as menu or price changes, new products and services, newsletters, press releases, etc.
With a website link, your company will better stand out in search venues such as Google maps. Those companies without websites are oftentimes passed by, because people want more information before they decide where to spend their money.
Selling your products online can be secure and affordable, not to mention fast and simple. You can have your personalized “store” right on your website, with a check out cart allowing either credit card payments or Paypal (or both). Professional services can also be paid for on your site, by the hour or packaged service price. Imagine the money you can save by not having to pay for a store front.

Your website can provide the foundation upon which your company can build and improve its products and operations. Don’t miss out by not having this vital element in your toolbox.

James Flaherty is a blogger, small business owner and avid gamer, especially simulation games. He believes everyone should try computer games at least once, even your grandmother. A great place to start is with free games.