A Few weeks back, I tried searching for my favourite Sushi restaurant online out of interest sake. Not only did I not find a website, I found almost no mention of them on the internet and I came across a new restaurant with a stunning website, which I gave a go and I loved! This small example illustrates the importance of a website, not only because you are losing out to people that are looking for you online, but you are losing these potential clients to your opposition!
 

Get on the web and get noticed

 
We cant dismiss the fact that there are currently more internet users than ever, and these people are looking for you and your business. Chances are, when they are searching for you using a search engine, your competitors name will pop up if you are not found. Combine that with the fact that your closest competition has a good looking, professional website, you immediately have lost out on a potential client and not only have you lost out, but you passively directed them to your competition. If you have a website, you can be found online. If you don’t have a website, customers will find your competitors.
 

A Virtual face of your business

 
A website offers someone looking for your business all the relevant information that he wants. He/She can browse through your products, read what your company can offer him or her, find contact information for your business, all while sitting in his own comfy chair at home, without having to pick up the phone.
 
Through well presented content you can strengthen your relationship with existing clients as well, and build a very strong online presence which portrays a sense of reliability to your customers, which will keep them coming back for more. Make them see you as a leader in your field opposed to a follower. This can all be achieved by have a strong online presence through your website.
 

Spend your marketing budget wisely

 
With 2 Billion internet users I would seriously rethink some marketing strategies. Your website provides you with a virtual pamphlet or advertisment of your business, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year and it costs the fraction of a price you would normally spend on conventional marketing strategies. Your list of potential customers is virtually endless on the web.
 
So, does my business need a website? Yes it does. Are you sure? We are relatively small and we are not planning to sell any products online? Yes I am sure. If you have a proper, professional website (that doesn’t look like it was designed by a 3 year old) it is always a great idea. Without a doubt, every business out there needs a website.