Every small business needs a website!

Whatever I am planning to do, whether I am looking for a new piece of furniture, a present for a friend or an activity for the school holidays, I always look it up on the internet. Even if I read an advert in a magazine, I'll look for a website to check opening times, location, prices and find out further details.

Maybe you think that is because I have always worked with computers and so it is the easiest way for me to get the information I need....possibly, but I'm not the only one! We are living in the information age and most people I know would look to the internet as the main source of information. If you own a small business, you need to have a website to reach your customers.

But it is difficult to know what you need, especially if computers isn't your thing!

Here's some advice to get you started. Have a look at what your competitors are doing. I bet you'd be surprised. I worked on a website for a carpet retailer. He told me who his competitors in that area were, but when I looked on the internet I discovered many more. A small business doesn't always look so small on the internet!

Having a website doesn't mean you have to launch into selling your products online either. It's about having a presence, telling people who you are, what products or services you offer and how they can get in touch with you.

If a business doesn't have a website, I don't usually choose them....but I do consider them as a potential customer!

What sort of information does a website need?

Home Page
The first page users will see gives an overview of your company and emphasizes your unique selling points. It really needs to grab their attention and point them in the right direction.

Contact Information
Give people a choice of ways in which to contact you; telephone, mobile, fax, address, email... If you have business premises, include a map so people can find you.

Reviews
Reviews or customer testimonials will help to turn potential customers into real customers.

Information about you
Sounds obvious but can often be overlooked. Potential customers need to find out more about you and your business, so don't be shy!

The type of business you own will determine what other information is needed on your website. But remember the MoSCoW rules to prioritise what you want on your website. MUST have, SHOULD have, COULD have and WOULD have

Talk to me about your business, I can help you work out what would be best for your needs.