According to the Office for National Statistics:

Though less and less common these days, a common question that traditional "brick and mortar" business owners ask is: Why should I take my traditional company online? 

The second most common internet activity in 2016 was finding information about goods and services, undertaken by 76% of adults in 2016.

If that’s not a compelling enough reason to get your business online here are five more.

5 reasons to get online

1. It’s cost-effective

Purchasing a domain name and website hosting package is a low-cost way to showcase your business to a world of customers. If you don’t have the budget to pay for a professionally designed website, there are countless free website-building packages available online.

An even easier way to reach the online community is by setting up an account or page with a major social media website. It’s free, simple and you’ll instantly have a platform from which you can connect with millions of users worldwide.

2. It opens a world of opportunities

Having a website, being on social media or selling on an e-commerce platform allows you to grow your business beyond your physical location. An online presence opens your virtual shop for business 24/7, allowing you to access potential customers you could never reach conventionally.

3. It creates a lasting impression

How many times have you been asked by your customers for your website details? This is because customers expect you to be online. If you aren’t, you risk looking ‘behind the times’ and losing out to competition who are already reaping the benefits of having an online presence.

Being a one-person business (or micro-business) is no-longer an excuse for not competing with larger competition – the internet has levelled that playfield and gives you the opportunity to grow.

4. It increases customer engagement

Using social media or having an email address gives your customers more ways to contact you. Many would prefer to email, visit your website, or tweet you rather than make a phone call.

Being more accessible to your customers will increase customer satisfaction and help you better understand your market whilst also providing your customers with the opportunity to leave online reviews – perfect for word-of-mouth referrals.

5. It allows your customers to stay informed

Physical brochures and prices lists can quickly become out-of-date as you change your services and alter your pricing structure. Having this information on your website allows you to make immediate changes and ensure your customers stay informed – seeing only current and relevant information.

Looking to grow or build your first website?

Our free 'Introduction to creating your own website' training course will help you to understand the basics of website design, development and creation. 
Find out more about our training courses here.