8 reasons why you should have a website

1. the internet continues to grow

Statistics show that just over 14.7 million people use the internet in Australia on average every month. As of 2008, 75.9% of Austalia’s population is online. And in the period 2000-2007 Australia’s internet use grew by a skyrocketing 123%. As a business, now is the time to get involved. The internet can give your business the opportunity to expand into new areas and expose you to a whole new audience. 

Statistics from http://www.internetworldstats.com Jan 11 2007

2. introduce yourself to new customers

Potential customers want to know more about the businesses they are dealing with. More and more they are looking to the business’s website for this information. With a website you can present yourself, your staff and the intentions of your business clearly and professionally. Being able to refer potential business to a well designed website will also give you and your staff a greater sense of pride and confidence.

3. level the playing field

On the internet small and large businesses can compete on a more level playing field. A professional website can present a small business with all the flair and impact of larger businesses. Likewise, well established businesses fall flat on the internet if the website does not match their status. 

4. build credibility and trust 

A well designed website gives your business credibility and professionalism. This instills a level of trust with your customer which increases their purchasing confidence. An unprofessional website will reflect badly on your perceived professionalism, and not having a website at all can work against you when being compared with the competition. 

5. be open for business 24/7 

Provide service and information to customers and potential customers around the clock with no extra effort or staff costs. Digital media is immediate and delivers answers while buyers are still hot. It is also highly interactive and with the right scripts can elicit sales with little or no personal contact. 

6. cost effective marketing

The Internet can be the most effective and cost efficient way to advertise and reach qualified prospects. Search engine optimisation and sponsored searches are very affordable and can deliver results for a fraction of the cost of regular print ads. No matter what the size of your business, your website is a powerful and cost-effective direct marketing and communication tool.

  

7. second shop front - sell anything online 

Any products or services you sell can be made immediately available to a wide audience. Just like opening another branch, your website literally can be a way to grow your business. 

8. businesses are not alone on the Internet 

Many individuals, communities and clubs are enjoying being part of the online world, sharing photos, hobbies, resumes, expertise and even good recipes! The Internett is a social and cultural phenomenon of our time, its great to be a part of it.