I remember 10 years ago, when I would look for a company in my local area by searching in the yellow pages. This was great because I could find a company for any service that I needed for my business from office stationary, electricians and gas fitters.

I now can’t think back to the last time I look at a directory, so it got me thinking about how do businesses search for other businesses when they need a specific services or product.

The only places that I could think of were directories, papers, magazines, events, word of mouth and then of course online. Online there are millions of opportunities to source companies from search engines, online directors like Yell, social media like LinkedIn and even forums.

Most people now have access to the internet and this is where people will start making buying discussions. Now you would think it would be easier having access within seconds to hundreds of companies.

But 10 years ago in the yellow pages you would have 5 companies that you would choose from and you could soon decide which one to choose from, normally by the closest one to you or the best price.

We now have too much choice online, because most companies will deliver and will price match. It now makes it more confusing and stressful to choose the correct service or product, let alone a company to do business with.

So a study shows that now people will make discussion on a company depending on their experience on their website. As this is now a company’s shop window to make an impression on their customers.

This is why it is so important to have a business website, here are some key reason why:

  • Your business will now be researchable 24/7 365 days a year to the whole world.
  • It is your online brochure which can be updated anytime.
  • The world is your oyster, your audience is now global.
  • You present a professional image
  • Promote your services
  • Sell your products
  • Improve your customer service
  • Great for recruitment
  • It provides your viewer instant information without a wait
  • Gather information and generate valuable leads