Did you know that 85% of consumers use the internet to find local businesses? If your small business doesn’t have a website, you’re missing out on a massive opportunity to attract new customers.
Despite this, nearly 40% of small businesses still don’t have a website. In an increasingly digital world, having an online presence is essential for growth, credibility, and customer engagement.
Here are five major benefits of creating a low-cost website for your small business.
1. Show Up in Local Search Results
With more consumers relying on Google to find local businesses, small businesses need a website to remain competitive. If your business isn’t online, potential customers won’t find you when they search for services in your area.
For example, a bakery in Washington, DC, without a website won’t show up when someone searches for “bakeries near me.” However, local businesses that optimize their websites for local SEO will appear in search results and attract customers.
How to Optimize for Local Search:
✅ Add location-based keywords to your website (e.g., “best bakery in Washington, DC”).
✅ Create a Google My Business listing.
✅ Ensure your website has up-to-date contact details and operating hours.
2. Build a Strong Digital Marketing Strategy
A small business website acts as the foundation of your digital marketing strategy. While social media profiles (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn) help boost your online presence, they shouldn’t replace a dedicated website.
Why Social Media Isn’t Enough:
- Social platforms limit your visibility based on changing algorithms.
- You don’t own your content—the platform controls how and when it’s displayed.
- A website centralizes your brand and links to all your social media accounts.
How to Strengthen Your Digital Marketing with a Website:
✅ Add social media links to your website footer.
✅ Create blog content that drives organic traffic.
✅ Use your website as a landing page for email marketing and ads.
3. Showcase Your Products & Services
With more consumers shopping online, a website allows small businesses to showcase their products and services effectively.
A website helps in two key ways:
- Customers can find and buy products online instantly.
- Customers can view products online before visiting your store.
For example, Handmade Habit, a small candle company, sells soy candles directly through its website. With detailed product descriptions, including scent notes, ingredients, and burn time, the website builds customer trust and increases online sales.
How to Optimize Your Website for Sales:
✅ Include high-quality images and detailed product descriptions.
✅ Add a simple, user-friendly checkout process.
✅ Provide customer testimonials to build trust.
4. Boost Your Business’s Credibility
A small business website helps establish credibility and trust. Without a website, customers may question your legitimacy or choose a competitor that has an online presence.
For example, Craft Coffee, a coffee subscription service, uses its homepage to highlight why its product is valuable. The company also features customer testimonials to reinforce trust and show that past customers had a positive experience.
How to Make Your Business More Credible Online:
✅ Clearly explain what you offer and why it’s valuable.
✅ Include customer reviews and testimonials.
✅ Use a professional email address (e.g., name@yourbusiness.com).
5. Collect Customer Information & Improve Marketing Efforts
A website allows small businesses to collect valuable customer data, such as email addresses, browsing behavior, and purchase history. This data helps businesses personalize marketing efforts and improve customer relationships.
For example, by collecting email addresses through a website sign-up form, businesses can:
- Send exclusive discounts and promotions to subscribers.
- Keep customers engaged through weekly newsletters.
- Advertise new products and services directly to an interested audience.
How to Collect & Use Customer Data:
✅ Add a newsletter sign-up form to your website.
✅ Use website analytics (Google Analytics) to track visitor behavior.
✅ Personalize email campaigns based on customer interests.
Are Websites a Worthwhile Investment for Small Businesses?
Yes! Many small businesses worry about the cost of website development, but 30% of businesses spend less than $500 per year on website maintenance.
For those hesitant about hiring a web designer, platforms like Wix, Squarespace, and Weebly offer free or low-cost website-building solutions with no coding experience required.
Conclusion: Every Small Business Needs a Website
In today’s digital-first world, a small business website is a must-have, not a luxury. It helps businesses:
✅ Show up in local search results.
✅ Strengthen their digital marketing strategy.
✅ Showcase products and services effectively.
✅ Build credibility and trust.
✅ Collect customer data to improve marketing efforts.
If your business doesn’t have a website yet, now is the time to get started. Investing in an online presence will attract more customers, increase sales, and drive long-term success.
