There is no doubt the Internet has become a huge marketplace. Some might question putting out the extra capitol it takes to get your existing storefront an online home.
Studies show that almost 80% of consumers research their purchases online before buying. Meaning if you don’t have an online presence for your business then you are missing out. To have a business presence online you need to at least have a map with directions so potential customers can locate you.
Building confidence with your customers is easy when you have a properly maintained website, where your customers can read about your businesses story, and get general information about your company. Having a website allows your company to develop its own style and brand. A small home based business can look just as important online as a large corporate website.
Any advertising done on TV, radio, direct mailing, or on newspapers should have a reference to your website. Customers can then view more information about your products or promotions. Any promotion done through these offline mediums is very expensive, and should be used for maximum exposure. Have coupons, discounts, special offers all in one easy to manage location, “your website”, changing, tweaking, or ending promotions is easy when they are in one area.
Are you chasing your competitors? Or, are you leading the pack? Customers are out there looking for you. Why wouldn’t you take advantage of all that the World Wide Web has to offer? Will your customers find you online when they look? If you don’t have an online presence, then people could be turned away from your products or services.
