Anyone who owns a small business understands the importance of budgeting and may not feel that a website or a professional website, at that, is in their current budget. But here’s a news flash – having a professional website for your small business can actually save you a lot of money in the long run!

Don’t think that just because you are not technologically-savvy and do not use the Internet often, your customers are the same! You may also feel that the type of business that you are in does not even require a website, but you could not be more wrong. EVERY business (whether small, medium or large) needs a professional-looking website.  There are many reasons why this is…

The first reason why you need to have a professional website is that it shows credibility for your business. Nowadays people use the Internet (and not the Yellow Pages!) to search for the products and services they need. If you do not have a website, you simply will not be found, and if you have a clearly homemade website, it will give the wrong impression of your business and your potential customers will just go elsewhere – elsewhere meaning to your competitors!

In the 21st century, your website is your second storefront, so ensure that your shop window looks its best, professional self at all times.

The belief that you cannot afford a professional website (or a website at all) is entirely false. It may have been the case 20 years’ ago, but in 2015 you could create a smart website for as little as $25 and a small monthly hosting fee. This is nothing when you consider the marketing power that a website has when compared to other advertising mediums. When last did you place a newspaper or magazine ad for your business? How much did that cost? A website is far more effective as the effect is permanent and is seen by an unlimited amount of people. Furthermore, you can advertise so much more: you are able to let your clients know about current promotions, new product launches, etc.

A professional website is the perfect platform to showcase your products or services in a beautiful way. By taking high quality photographs, you can upload your portfolio for your customers to see. It also gives you the opportunity to improve your customer service by posting great hints, tips, hacks and advice relative to your industry, which your customers will appreciate.

Think of the time you’ll save by being able to refer customers to your website for price lists and information on products, instead of spending hours on the phone or having to email, fax or post the same to them.

As you can see, having a professional website for your business goes a long way in improving many operational areas. Not only is it great for your company’s image, but it is a fantastic investment in the long run!