Should I get a WEBSITE?
"At what point do I need a website?"
THE MOMENT YOU HAVE INFORMATION TO OFFER.
THE MOMENT YOU HAVE SERVICES FOR PEOPLE TO PURCHASE.
THE MOMENT YOU REALIZE THIS ISN'T A HOBBY ANYMORE.
I love using Facebook & Instagram as a source of outlet to show off work and services - but in most cases, Facebook is too crowded. And Instagram is beautiful and typically gains clicks and viewers - don't get me wrong, both help with creating fan engagement, but your website allows your to bring all those elements together! Bottom line : Building your online presence through social platforms (while important) is not enough.
If you're at this point in your life where you've got the content, the product/services - then follow me to see how to woo more dream clients!
1) You need a way to showcase your SERVICES : Websites create an online brochure of everything YOU - it gives your potential customers a chance to learn more about you and all that your business offers with visual aids. Say you just emailed a potential client or made some connections at an event, next on the list would be them checking out your site. It even helps you save time on questions from clients and consumers by directing them to your service list or FAQ page.
2) You want to create trust with potential CLIENTS : Most consumers and potential clients are nervous about hiring anyone or shopping just from anywhere. A website creates a weird signal in people's brain that says "LEGIT BUSINESS". (With that said, make sure your site is up to date - that could make your business lose credibility) In general most people don't take professionals seriously if they don't have a website. Even if you just started your business or have years of experience, a website can help showcase that properly and helps to better your position in the market. Make sure your website is an accurate representation of your knowledge and what exactly you're trying to sell - first impressions are everything! Use your site to demonstrate what makes your business unique.
" YOU KNOW WHAT YOU'RE DOING, BUT DOES THE CLIENT THINK THAT? "
3) You want to hit a bigger MARKET : Crazy that over 81% of clients do their research online before making a decision to purchase something. I've never bought something without digging in on reviews or having 5 tabs open about who I'm buying from or why I should give into a certain cause. Without a website, you're basically non-existent to the market. Give your business a chance for the world to see it!
Basically : Websites are simple and affordable to set up.
With website hosting networks at $10 a month and website formats that are easier than ever to format, there's no better time than now to start opening up the door to what your passionate about! To all the small business owners — let's stop putting off building a website and hurting your business!
Instead, let's get chatting on how to put together your very own website and get back to doing what you love most!