6 Reasons Why Your Small Business Needs a Website
Two times in as many weeks I’ve been asked by small business owners if a web site is really necessary? They seem to feel a presence on Instagram or Tik Tok is enough.
Well, it’s not.
My answer is “Well, if you want long-term growth, credibility, and control over your business presence, i.e., if you really want make income off your business, then, yes, you need a web site.”
Here’s why.
1. Websites Build Trust and Credibility
Given the choice between two competitors, a customer will decide to do business with the one who has a professional website. Why? Because it makes you look legit! A professional website signals that you’re established and trustworthy. It is where people still go to read reviews, find out more about your services, and learn more about you — all things that build confidence in your brand, and more importantly, trust (which is such a crucial step in the customer purchase journey!)
2. You Don’t Own Social Media
Surprise! Your social media followers are not truly yours. Algorithms change, platforms go down, accounts get hacked, and reach is shaky without a strategic, paid approach (see my previous post on the pitfalls of organic social media.) If Instagram or TikTok (which is constantly be threatened in the U.S.) disappeared tomorrow, how would you reach your customers? A website, (sure, it can go down temporarily) gives you a stable, owned digital home that’s always there when your audience comes looking.
3. More Visibility with Search Engines
Even with Instagram accounts now showing up on Google Search results, social media content is still limited on search engines! Your website can be optimized for search engines—helping new customers discover you when they search for what you offer. Want to be found when someone searches “best local florist” or “affordable lawn care near me”? A well-structured website is still your best shot.
4. Tell Your Story and Make it Stick
Even with Instagram accounts now showing up on Google Search results, social media content is still limited on search engines! Your website can be optimized for search engines—helping new customers discover you when they search for what you offer. Want to be found when someone searches “best local florist” or “affordable lawn care near me”? A well-structured website is still your best shot.
5. Drive Conversions More Effectively
Social media is great for awareness, but it’s not designed to close the deal. A website can guide people to take action—like booking a service, making a purchase, or filling out a form. With features like lead capture, ecommerce, and email opt-ins, your website becomes a true marketing engine.
6. Integrate with Everything Else
Your marketing doesn’t stop at social posts. A good website integrates with your email campaigns, ad platforms, online reviews, and analytics. It ties all your efforts together and gives you a clear picture of how your marketing is performing.
Social media gets people’s attention. Your website turns it into action. You need both—but don’t skip the site.
If you’re building your business on borrowed platforms alone, you’re building on shaky ground. Your website is a central hub that boosts your credibility, and helps you grow sustainably.
I speak on the 7 Must-Haves for A Converting Website. If you’re a event planner seeking a thoughtful, engaging presentation on web sites, please contact me here.