We were recently asked this question, “Does my local business need a website?” Our answer was a resounding “YES!”
Why does my local business need a website?
Imagine this scenario. You are looking for a new eye doctor. Your neighbor recommends her Dr. to you that she has been seeing for years. Next, you go home and “google” the recommendation. The search results have a Facebook page and a Google business profile. You start to scroll down to find their website but don’t see one. You go to the Facebook page to find out more, but you can’t find anything except a phone number and email address. Is the Dr. taking new patients? What does the office look like? Does this seem like a professional company to take care of your eyes?
As a business owner, it is important to have a website for your local business. It is important to your potential clients, but most importantly, it provides a way for you to be found in a google search. Keywords and keyphrases are important for every page as well as links from online directories. Just about every industry has an online directory. Make sure your website is linked to those directories that make sense to your industry.
I have social media accounts, aren’t those enough?
Social media is a great tool for your business, but most people won’t give your business credibility without a website. A website does not have to be elaborate. In fact, too much text can turn people off. It can be as simple as a landing page that gives an overview of your business, services offered, hours, contact information and testimonials. Testimonials are so important for local businesses and we have many tools we recommend for our clients’ websites.
Do I need to have videos on my website?
Video and professional images are also great tools to give potential clients a peek into your business. In fact, Google says that by 2023, 80% of all web traffic will be video. Start now and your website will be ready.
I keep hearing about “voice optimization”. What does that mean?
According to Forbes, by 2020 30% of all website sessions will be conducted without a screen. WOW! It is so important to have a website that has been optimized with on-page SEO. Use keyphrases that will answer your most frequently asked questions. This is something you can’t get from social media accounts.
In conclusion, yes, your business needs a website. While it is important to also showcase your business on social media, think of your website as your way to be found in search engines and as your main lead generation tool.
