Think your business can survive without a website?
I get it, it can be intimidating to create your first website. There are a million and one things you need to do as a new entrepreneur, and if you’re reading this post, learning web design is probably at the bottom of your list. Why do you need a website for your business anyway?
I’m glad you asked! Today I’m breaking down seven reasons why you need a website (HINT: If you want to gain credibility, make more sales and see long term success, start today!). Plus, I’ll share some tips for how to get your site up and running as painlessly as possible.
Creating a website isn’t as hard or complicated as most people think. Invest a little time and effort, and the results will pay for themselves. Let’s jump right in, with the top seven reasons why you need a website for your business!
1. You can control your information and branding.
Unlike social media accounts, you OWN your website (period). Your Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn could be hacked or deactivated at any time–not to mention you’re at the mercy of any algorithm changes those platforms decide to roll out. Running a business solely off of social media is risky at best.
Don’t get me wrong, I love Instagram as much as the next girl and it’s a huge part of my business! Social media is a great tool to find clients and make sales, but you can’t control the layout, the structure of information, or how people consume it.
Having a website gives you a secure place on the Internet to drive people to. It’s your home base and you have 100% control! You can communicate however you like, and ultimately establish your business and brand.
2. Increased visibility.
Most people do research online before making a purchase or decision, and having a website makes you instantly more visible.
Let’s face it: Social media is crowded. You’re one of many (many, many) entrepreneurs trying to carve out a space for yourself and stand out in a sea of constant updates. On a website, your business is front and center. It’s the sole focus.
Tip: Include all the information people need to make a decision (your services, prices, workflow etc.). Make it as easy as possible for them to purchase!
3. Stand out from the competition.
When you pitch yourself for a job or are being compared to other people in your field, your website is one of the first things people will look at. Think of it as your virtual first impression: You want it to be polished, professional and accurately relay your message and services.
Take this one step further and invest in a professional web designer or template. When you have a website that makes people say WOW, they’re going to remember you. And that could be the deciding factor in winning a client!
4. A website establishes your credibility.
There’s a reason why new business owners often delay setting up their website: Having a website is a commitment. It’s a (relatively small) investment of time and money, and that makes some people hesitate.
On the flip side, if you DO have a professional looking site, it positions you as someone who is serious and committed enough to invest time and energy into their business.
A good website demonstrates your expertise in your industry, and gives clients an idea of what to expect if they work with you. You can showcase your work through a portfolio, a podcast, blog, etc. All of this increases your authority and establishes you as an expert!
5. It will save you time.
Which one of these sounds preferable to you?
- Having a central place on the internet that is accessible 24/7 with your information, packages, and pricing available.
- Answering a dozen emails and messages every week all asking you the same basic questions about your business.
Having a website will save you the time and energy of answering individual questions. Instead, you can simply direct people to your website. An unexpected benefit of this is that it will also force YOU to get clear on your offers.
Save even more time by answering common questions in an FAQ page. There’s no point in hopping on a sales call if someone’s questions are easily answered online. Similarly, your website might convince people who are on the fence about purchasing.
6. You’ll make more money.
A good website is set up with the customer experience in mind and leads people through a journey. Setting up a sales funnel might take some work on the front end, but it will pay off 10 fold down the line. You can capture leads, make connections and sales on your site, and all without you needing to be present. (And while the word “sales funnel” might sound complex and overwhelming, I promise it doesn’t have to be!)
If you don’t have an online presence, especially one where you can clearly convey the information that people are looking for, you’ll lose out on potential customers every day!
7. It’s not as hard or expensive as you think.
Although hiring a web designer is a great option, it’s not necessary or always feasible if you’re just starting out. Creating a beautiful website that truly feels like you and wows your audience does NOT have to cost an arm and a leg.
In Laptop Lifestyle Bootcamp, we walk our students through setting up their website step by step (no tech experience required!) and even have templates for you. Having a professional website is just one of the six-figure foundations we set up in LLB for long term success. You can read more about the program here!
Another great option is to find a new designer and see if they’re willing to trade services with you (ie. you write the copy for their site and they design yours). It’s a win-win! Check out the Laptop Lifestyle Entrepreneur Facebook group to get started.
Have I convinced you of why you need a website for your business?
If you want your business to take off, you need a central place online for clients to find and contact you. A well-made website will increase your visibility, draw people in your funnels and help you make more money with less effort! So what are you waiting for?!
Got questions? Reach out on Instagram and make sure to follow for more online business tips.
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