For many businesses, setting up a Web site is the first step toward online advertising. Before you dive into the Web world, though, take a few minutes to consider what you want out of a Web site, and what a Web site can do for you. Here are some of the advantages that Web sites bring:
- A Web site improves your image. Face it – just about everyone in business has a site. If you don’t, you want to make sure you’ve intentionally chosen not to do so, and be sure your reasons are sound.
- A Web site can help your business – and your customer list – expand. When you have a Web site, anywhere people have access to the Internet, they can have access to your business. Your customers are no longer limited to the people in your neighborhood.
- A Web site can reduce some costs. You can put information on your Web site that you may normally put in an expensive brochure. People who visit your site can get information quickly, and you save printing and mailing costs. Everyone wins.
- A Web site is available around the clock (and the calendar). Your Web site works for you even when you’re sick or on vacation. When your customers want to buy, your Web site is there to take their orders or receive their questions, which you can then answer when you’re online – or you can include answers to “Frequently Asked Questions” on your Web site, which customers can peruse at their convenience.
- A Web site offers customers a choice. They can reach you in person and by phone, fax, e-mail and now via your Web site. Offering more choices puts the customer in control.
Now that you’re sold on the advantages of a Web site, take a few minutes to consider the following drawbacks as well:
- Sometimes having a Web site gives visitors the impression that they’re able to buy online. If you don’t have an online store, some visitors may be disappointed.
- If you include an online store in your Web site, many customers are not willing to send their credit card information over the Internet. Some people still fear being ripped off. Others prefer shopping in person; they like to see products before they buy, to judge their value.
- Having a Web site doesn’t ensure success.You have to work for success on the Web as hard as you work for it in your traditional store.
If you are interested in viewing samples of Web sites created by Virtually Efficient, please visit the Testimonials page. If you would like a consultation with Virtually Efficient to see if a Web site would fit into your business goals, please visit the Contact page.
