WHY DO I NEED A WEBSITE?
Competitive Edge
Whether you are an existing business looking to expand, or a new one just
starting up, there are many advantages to making your presence on
the Internet.The Internet is recognised as one of the most cost effective forms of
advertising available - soon every business will appear there in some
form, and if your competitors get there first, then you could be missing
out on potentially valuable custom.
Get Found
In the past, when your customers were looking for a product or service,
their easiest option would be to pull out the Yellow Pages to search for a
store or company in their area that provided the product or service they
were in need of. Sometimes this supplied a name and phone number. Sometimes,
an address. On more rare occasions, a picture advertisement with a list of
services or products.
With the Internet today, that same customer can go to a search engine or
index and be presented with a list of businesses that fit their needs, with
links to their web pages. Those web pages are loaded with product pictures
and price lists, maps and phone numbers, and even online Shopping Cart system
which allows the customer to order products and services, all without ever
having to leave the house or office.
Chances are, a similar company is selling similar products or services, and
have already established a website. Even if you do not intend to sell your
products on the Internet, potential customers may still be directed to your
website, where you have information about your product and information on
purchase.
Corporate Presence
Perhaps you have a "service" oriented practice such as accounting, law, or
medicine that's already doing well and you're wondering why you should burden
yourself with the added expense of a Web site. Simply put, not having a web
site will soon be like not having a listing in your local Yellow Pages. In
the Web world, this is referred to as a "corporate presence." Even if your
best business comes by word-of-mouth, your potential customers may want to
check you out. A well-designed, professional web site can give you added
visibility and credibility. Especially if you provide a public service and
your gold is to get information to a large number of people almost
instantaneously. Additionally, the cost of maintaining a Web site is probably
the most cost effective advertising you'll ever do.
Customer Confidence
When someone hands you a business card, do you immediately pick up the phone
and call them, or send a letter to the address on the card? Potential customers
are more likely to visit your website and learn about your services in the
comfort of their own home than listen to a sales pitch over the telephone.
Plus, a website on your business card lets customers know that you keeping
up with today's Internet world, and confident enough in your business to have
an Internet presence.
Always Open
Unlike your office building, your website is open 24 hours/day! If customers
have questions about your products, they may be able to find the answers online.
You can refer current customers to your website for support or answers to their
inquiries. Potential customers not ready to commit may feel re-assured after
reviewing your company and products online.
Expand your Client Base
When you establish a presence on the Internet, your customer base becomes
global! Whatever your trade, business is sure to expand when you put your
company online. Partnership and cross-linking with other websites will increase
site traffic, and lead to increased customers and sales. Having a website is a
great way to gain customers and increase sales by selling your product online.
you@yourcompany.com
Everybody wants an easy-to-remember e-mail addresses. Aside from the convenience
of having friends or customers contact you by name, an e-mail address at
yourcompany.com will sound professional and look more professional on a resume
or business card. Iceberg Hosting's service plans include multiple e-mail
accounts, so everyone in your business or family can have their own customized
e-mail address.
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