Do You Need A Website?

Using the Internet as a marketing tool is a wise business decision no matter the size of your company. Here is something to ponder if you are sitting on the fence about getting your business online.
Consider what kind of information a potential customer gets when he enters your office (showroom, restaurant or store). Perhaps your customer can.

· Read the sign stating the hours of operation (or holiday hours)
· Pick up a business card with your full business name, mailing address, fax and phone numbers
· Read a brochure about your company’s history, products/services, mission statement
· Look at photos of the owners/employees at promotional and staff events
· Read notices on a bulletin board
· Get Information about affiliates, partners or suppliers
· Admire award plaques, trophies, team photos, and “Thank You” certificates
· See how staff interacts with customers
· Learn methods of payment
· Pick up a catalogue, schedule an appointment, ask questions, meet staff
· Feel the spirit and energy of your company


A website provides the experience of visiting your business in person. You need a website for the potential customer who.

· Doesn’t or can’t drop by
· Wants to know if you are open on Sundays
· Doesn’t know your location(s), phone number(s)
· Needs to know about parking/public transit/handicapped accessibility
· Wants to gain product/service information before making a decision
· Wants to comparison shop before making a commitment
· Has time to browse now: at midnight on the Sunday of a long weekend or after the kids have gone to bed
· Wants the assurance your firm is professional, up-to-date, credible and is interested in catering to his/her needs at his/her convenience

The above article, with a few revisions by Sue Studios, was written by Lynda French.