You may wonder if building an online business presence for your brand or your name is actually worth the time and trouble. Perhaps you found success with a regular bricks-and-mortar operation and are just now beginning to be convinced of the benefits of moving online.
Maybe you are satisfied with the current number of customers buying your products or services and feel no need to grow (is there really any business owner who currently feels this way?).
An online business presence is vital for success in today’s market, no matter what type of industry you are in, or what type of business you own. There is no substitute for the information you can provide with a website. Let’s take a more in-depth look at the importance of building an online business presence.
Authority
If someone is trying to find your business by doing an internet search, imagine what they would think if all they came across is a simple directory listing while all your competitors offer a professional website. Where will they find the most information? Which one would they choose if they are seeking the business with the most industry authority?
If a Google search of your company’s name returns less than one page of results, you are seriously lacking authority. The most successful businesses are referenced throughout the internet – at other sites, on blogs, in articles, in social media posts, etc. When professionals and search engines rate your business, it enjoys greater authority.
Building Trust Through Your Online Business Presence
Here’s another scenario. Assume that a consumer is making a decision between two companies with which to do business. Company #1 has a phone number listed online and perhaps a generic email address. Company #2 has a full website with an About Us page, a Contact Us page, a Sales letter with customer testimonials, FAQ list, interactive help feature, and pages with pictures of their products along with detailed descriptions, shipping options, satisfaction guarantee, and pricing. Which would most people choose?
Obviously the second site not only contains all the information they are seeking, it builds trust through the presence of testimonials, a written guarantee, and the ability to contact the company via various methods.
Make It Easy
In the above example, the second site also makes it easier on the customer. They’ve already answered possible questions, and outlined what the consumer can expect when placing an order. It’s simply easier for them to do business with Company #2 – they don’t have to place a call, they don’t need to visit the store in person, they don’t have to wonder if the company offers the products or services they are seeking. Who would go out of their way to do business with a company that makes the information-seeking and buying processes difficult?
Convenience also means that you take the time to personally interact with your visitors and provide prompt, high quality online customer support. If they send an email message, make sure your respond quickly and address any concerns. Thank them after the sale and follow up on their satisfaction. It is also important that a potential client know there is a real person behind that online presence.
There is not a single business that cannot benefit from building a widespread online business presence. Work on increasing your company’s authority and the customer’s trust while making it easy for them to do business with you and profits will assuredly soar.
Have a most outstanding day.
Sean RasmussenAussie Internet Marketing
www.AussieSEO.com 2010
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{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }
The thing that I have learned (and seen) is that a “bricks-and-mortar” operation can benefit enormously if they build an online presence.
I don’t have a business myself, however have seen several examples of where small businesses have increased their dominance on a niche market by building a online brand. Many small business have a website that looks like it was put together in the early 90’s, with a few static pages, mediocre pictures, out of date information, etc.
The businesses who have spent some time and effort on revamping their sites have not only grown their online brand, but have also helped grow their overall business. I definitely wish that I actually had a traditional business before learning all that I have.
Cemil´s last blog ..Online Business Blackbook Releases First Affiliate Marketing ebook
Bringing an offline business online can be a very cost effective way of increasing exposure, branding and overall profits. Many offline businesses are starting to realise this fact, and you will see more and more traditional businesses gaining higher market share through their online activities in the future.
Cemil,
I find what you have said here to be very valuable. You always contribute greatly to the comment section and I enjoy reading what you write.
Some people have innate business accumen and other’s like myself need to learn it. I learned here that branding is important and also the appearance of your blog.
Thank you Cemil
Hi Sean,
I think your example of the two companies highlights the importance of building an online business presence. You really want to convey that feeling of professionalism and trust when a customer visits your site.
A strong online presence takes time to build but I can ensure my site meets the standards of the second company. There’s so much I have to learn.
Jazz Salinger´s last blog ..Learn and Earn – It’s a Marathon Not a Sprint
Having an online presence is vital in todays world. If I see a business on the street, I automatically assume I will be able to look them up on the net and see what they have in stock. If I can’t find them, I usually find another business online which has the same goods. It has to be easy to navigate as well, or people aren’t going to bother with it.
Jackie Stenhouse´s last blog ..Anxiety Separation in Children
Hi Jackie,
I do exactly the same thing. It’s really frustrating to me now when an offline business doesn’t have an online presence. I love sites that offer everything I need and make it easy to find what I’m looking for.
Jazz Salinger´s last blog ..Sean Rasmussen – Aussie Internet Marketer Making a Difference
Building an online presence is definitely worth it – even or especially for an offline business.
More and more people get their information from the Internet, so if you are not present there you might be missed – and will miss out on potential clients!
Renee´s last blog ..Improving Self Confidence