Most businesses now have a website. Even brick and mortar stores which traditionally sell to customers from the local neighborhood are developing websites for their businesses. But, why?
There are four main reasons;
- Because more than two-thirds of consumer journeys start on a retail website
Back in the day, people only shopped at the roadside store. And, the only way for people outside your neighborhood to discover your business was through word of mouth. After someone made a purchase at your store, he or she would go out there and become your ambassador by telling everyone else how good your prices or services were. But, after the internet was invented, things changed a little. Consumers can now easily discover new stores and products online. According to recent studies, more than two-thirds of consumers now begin their shopping by heading directly to a retail site.
- Because a website gives you a 24/7 presence
Another major reason even small businesses are getting a website is that a site allows you to remain “open” round the clock. The world is changing. Today, in most of the big cities, people go shopping even in the middle of night. Unfortunately, small businesses might not have the resources to open their stores after dark. So, what do you do? Get a website! With that, consumers can stop by and make purchases from your store anytime, from anywhere.
- A website lends credibility to your business
Just like consumers are likely to distrust any business that does not have a telephone number or physical address, in the digital world, operating without a website would cause a lot of people to question your very existence. In the same breath, a website demonstrates to consumers that you indeed offer the products and services they are looking for. If someone is looking for a Drupal Development Company, they should be able to find that listed as one of your services. Otherwise, they might question whether or not you offer the services.
- It cuts advertising and other overhead costs
For those who’ve advertised their businesses through traditional means such as radio or TV, or even other digital platforms such as display ads, you’ll find that a website gives just as much exposure, but for less money. People can come and see your offering and products at any time of the day, and you don’t have to pay anything for that. If you decide to conduct all your business online, you will also effectively eliminate staffing, rental, and utility costs. Eliminating these overheads can allow you to lower your prices, thus attract more customers.
A website also instantly expands your market and levels the playfield. As your site is accessible to all the corners of the world, the ability to break through geographical barriers has never been easier. Even people from far away countries are now potential customers. And, since you don’t need a big budget to keep your site up, you can compete with the big brands without breaking a sweat.
