Company websites help small businesses grow

Small businesses owners want to grow their companies, but it can be difficult if they are not using the right tools. Internet marketing methods and a social media strategy could help owners gain new customers, improve revenue and experience growth more effectively than traditional marketing channels, which are quickly becoming outdated.

Local companies often have to compete with larger national brands, and it can be a challenge to draw new customers away from these well-established businesses. However, online marketing can bring small organizations up to the same level as big competitors. Using the most up-to-date marketing methods can help owners achieve a higher level of growth.

Small businesses adverse to the Internet

Despite the value of Internet marketing benefits, Google research found 60 percent of small businesses are invisible, meaning they do not have a website, according to USA Today. Many of the rest are completely in the dark because there is no original information from the company anywhere on the Internet. The lack of an online presence can be detrimental to business growth. If a local consumer passed a storefront that looked appealing, he or she might try to find the company online before entering the store, and no website or any company information could lead them to look for a different business.

The Google findings also revealed small businesses with a website could grow 40 percent faster than those without one. Owners often avoid starting a website because they do not know how, but they can partner with a marketing firm that can put together a cost-effective and dynamic website. Owners also think websites are hard to use, but most consumers find them more easy to navigate than phone book advertising. Small-business owners could be missing out on many opportunities to gain new clients by not having an Internet presence.

Small-business owners are often reluctant to use technology to grow their companies because they think it requires too much time, know-how and financial resources, but there are many cost-effective marketing options available for owners. Marketing companies can quickly build a highly functional small business website. Most large organizations have adjusted accordingly to consumer preferences by providing information on the Internet, so small companies can compete by making the switch.

Why small-business owners should invest in a dynamic website

If a local company does not have a website, the owner may spend much of his or her time fielding phone calls from interested consumers who want to know the hours and location of the store. This takes away from the time managers have to devote to other important tasks. With a website, small businesses can prominently display hours of operation, store location and phone number, and they will have to handle fewer phone calls with requests for basic information. This can save owners time so they can focus on more important activities like serving customers and generating loyalty.

In addition to the time-saving benefits of a website, it makes a local business easier to find online. A web page also enables consumers to have better access to product and service information. Printed materials are harder to update when offerings change, but a dynamic website will always be current. Business owners do not need any web expertise, but simply have to understand a website is vital for business growth.

Social media platforms also increase visibility. Since online marketing has become the norm for most national brands, consumers expect to be able to find local businesses online as well. Adapting to Internet marketing methods can help potential customers find a business more easily.