Sometimes, as a small business owner, it can be difficult to see why you need a Website.

For some people, they see it as just another thing they have to maintain.

A lot of small business owners figure that their business lends itself mostly to word of mouth advertising. Or maybe they are a local business and don’t need to advertise nationally. So, they think to themselves, what’s the point of having a Website?

Often the thought of setting up a Website from scratch can be a bit overwhelming. But here are 5 reasons that your business really does need a Website.

1) It’s important to look professional.

If you want other people to take your business seriously, you have to take yourself seriously. Having an impressive and engaging Website will show people you are a real business. They should feel comfortable knowing that you’re doing all you can to do things properly. No one wants to work with a business that looks like it’s flying the seat of its pants. A well designed, easy to use, and informative Website shows that you’re a professional.

2) Get Found Online

For lots of people, the first thing they do when they have a question is search online for an answer to their problem. This becomes even more true when you’re talking about younger people. And as far as they’re concerned, if you’re not online, you might as well not exist. A Website is critical for people to find you, and it’s even more critical if your competitors have a Website. You don’t want someone to find your competitor’s Website and assume they’re the only game in town.

3) Your Website is always open for business

People surf the Internet all the time, including in the evening or on weekends: hours you might not feel like working. If you have a Website, people can still find you even when you’re “closed”. So why worry about losing customers just because they’re looking for you when you’re not there? Your Website will always be available for customers to learn more about you and find out how you can solve their problems.

4) Make basic info and FAQ easy to find

Location, business hours, phone numbers, services provided, maybe prices too. These are all essential pieces of information to have on your Website. It allows people to determine for themselves whether they want to reach out to you. It also saves you from answering the same silly questions over and over.

I know some people who say they would rather talk with a potential client than have them glean information from a Website. But you’re losing out on business if that’s the model you rely on. Today, many people would rather learn about the company and get most of our questions answered online first. Then, and only then, if we think that it’s worth our time and the business owner’s time, we’ll reach out to the company to find out more specific information.

5) Showcase your products or services

A Website is a fantastic way to showoff what it is that you do. It’s easier and cheaper than sending a catalogue to people. And it’s easier than other methods of advertising for people to share what they’ve found with their friends.

A Website also gives people a sense of what they can expect from you. This will help you and your customer be on the same page when you do start talking about doing business together. You can include pictures of your work, testimonials from past clients, or tips and tricks. The more people feel you can deliver a quality product or service, the more likely they are to want to do business with you. So don’t hold back, show off what you can do!