Okay, if you're in business then you probably know you need a website. Sadly, there are still many companies that believe their website is simply to give information and don't look at it as much more than a glorified Yellowpages ad. Additionally, many companies don't consider how often their website may need a face-lift. If your website was impressive 3 or 4 years ago when you launched it, is it giving the same impression today? If it was less than impressive when you launched it; is it now communicating that your business is outdated and technologically challenged when potential clients view it?
Reality is, potential clients rely heavily on your website to evaluate if your business is "qualified" for them to spend their dollars or even just spend a little time to decide whether or not to do business with you. I recently moved to a new area. I needed to find a business to perform a state inspection of my car. Where did I go? The internet of course. Now, a garage may not believe they need to use the internet to attract business but for me, a 40 something consumer, I not only want a website, I want business and feedback information, see pictures and information on people working on my vehicle, specials that entice me to come in, loaner vehicles, a clean waiting room and facilities, and an idea of cost and time involved. When I find this, I am willing to schedule there and spend my hard earned $.
Realtors understand that today, 90% of potential buyers look to the web first to decide which houses they want to tour BEFORE they ever make contact. A dental practice I worked with recently had spent 6 months establishing a strong web presence to be rewarded with their highest new patient count in one month earlier this year and 80% of all new patients this year crediting search engines and their website as either the primary or secondary determining factor in choosing the practice. Consequently, that practice has increased productivity 25% this year over 2009 - WOW!
Bottom line is that today, the internet is the #1 most cost effective and productive method of reaching potential customers and staying connected to existing customers for almost any business. A website not only needs to be updated and be easily found, it needs to project your Unique Selling Proposition and create an emotional connection in your customers to earn their patronage and loyalty. Using technology such as blogs, customer management tools, and e-marketing and e-commerce tools to reach out to customers and drive them to your website is the next level in leveraging the internet. All this takes time and focus but you have many options. Work with an experienced and personable design company to create your unique web presence. Look for the ability for you to change and update your website as needed with excellent support to make it seamless so you are constantly in control of your message. Hire a company or charge a staff member with maintaining your technology including website, blogs, posts, and e-tools to keep your business regularly in your customers thoughts and build loyalty and brand equity. Develop an internal marketing system for customers to subscribe to your posts and leave feedback on your business to promote higher ratings on search engines and build credibility. Mostly, manage your virtual business; give it the proper time and attention it needs to grow so it can support your live business and grow your bottom line.
For more information or to discuss your business' needs and solutions, contact Hummingbird Pros today.
