I hate to break it you, but your social media page isn’t your website. It’s a common misconception by many small businesses since they are so accessible and popular. However, I have said it before and will continue to say, social media platforms are rented spaces. While they can be used as part of a greater content marketing strategy, you still have to have a website for it all to live. Here are seven quick reasons why a website is non-negotiable!
1. Social media is great but it's NOT your website
We see this a lot and I have even addressed it in a previous post. While most of your potential customers may have access to social media, such as Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, there are others who shocking don’t have a profile! When they try to load your page, they are forced to log in or create a profile. All this does is creates frustration for the searcher and they move on to the next link. Also at any point, the parent company of the social media channel could decide to charge for its services.
By having a business website (separate from social media). you are providing your customers with one location where they know where to find you! It would be amiss if I also didn’t mention that your website is one of the places that search engines and mapping software go to ensure your name, address, and phone number.
2. 5 W’s your website has that
Today we search for everything. Searching is easy and the ability to do it is as close as the nearest voice-enabled device, phone, tablet, or computer. All these devices use some sort of search engine to find information. As part of a greater content strategy you will want the correct information scattered around the web, your website should be the main source and should provide the answers to user’s questions and what they need to know about your business.
- Hours of operation? Check.
- Services offered? Check.
- Phone number? Check.
- Email address? Check.
- How much does it cost? Maybe?
Consider the alternative of only having a social media page. If any of these items are not clearly displayed on the page, the customer would be required to contact you to get the answers. And let us be honest how often are you going to call a business to find out their hours if you can’t Google it.
Also, think about this, by talking about the cost of your product or services is one of the biggest questions that searchers need answers to. We have a post that talks about it here.
3. Simply put, a website establishes credibility
Having a professional website immediately begins building trust and credibility with your customers. Think about a time you Googled a business and the only link that came up was a social media page or just a Google My Business listing. Did you click the link or continue searching for an actual website? Chances are searchers are going to go on, unless you are in an industry that has very little competition and relies on referrals and word of mouth.
4. Your website must look professional.
Often, your website is the first impression customers get of your business. They’re introduced to your brand, your values, and your services. A website that is challenging to navigate or unattractive can quickly have potential customers hitting the back button!
Again, think back to a time you clicked on a website and couldn't quickly find the information you were searching for. You DO NOT want your potential customers to have that same experience when they click on your website.
5. Your website can be an EXPERIENCE for your customers.
When they come to your website, you have the opportunity to guide them where you need them to go. It may be your history and story, your mission, or your vision. Ultimately you want them to convert and either buy something or contact you.
6. Enhances the “know-like-trust” relationship with your customer.
It has often been said, “People Do Business With People They Know, Like and Trust”. While there is debate on the origin, the meaning behind it isn’t debatable. If you can build your credibility and earn my trust, then you have a solid chance to earn my business. Each time someone sees your or your brand, the more they start to trust you and your business. It is more recognizable, and you are more likely to be on their mind when they need your service or product.
7. A website is worth the investment
Your website is your single best marketing tool. Spending a little time, and investing in it will pay dividends.
While there are the DIY options available, my question is always this, what is your core business? Is it building a website and creating a marketing machine? If it takes you 8 hours to build a website, how much did you lose in actual work time from your core business? Hiring a professional agency to design, program, and develop a website with and implement a content strategy will ensure that your users will have the most effective user-experience.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, these seven tips help you understand that social media isn’t all that you need. At the very least my hope is that you have some food for thought and something to ponder over the coming weeks or months. I encourage you to reach out sooner than later if you have any questions. Cube Creative is here to help you with your website, content marketing, and digital marketing needs!
