Did you know that 71% of small businesses have a website? While that might seem like a lot of businesses have invested in their online presence, the real shocker is that around three in 10 companies haven’t gotten the message yet.
It’s hard to imagine a business in any industry that wouldn’t be better off without a website. Many people are just as comfortable transacting online as they are in stores. With the internet, consumers have more options than if they depend on brick-and-mortar shops. That means companies must up the ante and go online where consumers are already transacting.
The same source shows that 94% of someone’s first impression of a website is based on the website design. So, simply having a website isn’t nearly enough. That’s something to consider if you’re tempted to go the cheaper route and use a DIY website builder. Yes, it can be cheap — or possibly even free — but first impressions matter. Some people won’t check out a site that looks clumsy. Meanwhile, working with a reputable web design firm will give a good first impression and attract customers.
Consumers won’t be turned off by clunky designs, slow page loading speeds, uninspired organization, or other things that can underwhelm.
Consider these five ways your company loses out if it lacks professional website design.
1. Limited Online Presence
One source says that 2.64 billion people shopped online in 2023, accounting for about 33.4% or one-third of the worldwide population. If your business doesn’t have a website, you’re missing out by not having a virtual storefront.
Many people these days are just as likely, if not more likely, to shop online rather than go to a physical store. Add to that the fact that the internet opens up opportunities beyond your local area. You need an online presence to maximize your reach if you sell a product or service.
2. Loss of Credibility
75% of people judge a company’s credibility by its website design. Having a website can boost credibility. But don’t overlook your overall website design. If it looks hastily put together and unprofessional, many consumers will patronize another company offering something similar.
3. Missed Sales Opportunities
Your company will miss out on sales opportunities if you don’t have an online storefront. Remember that the internet opens up new markets in the country and internationally. But if people can’t find you online, they’ll take their money elsewhere and buy from another company.
4. Difficulty Competing with Rivals
Consider the opening statistic showing that seven in 10 small businesses have a website. You don’t want to be one of the three in 10 that don’t have a website since that’ll put you at a competitive disadvantage. Many of your competitors are online. If you’re not there as well, your rivals will get ahead while you’ll stagnate. A professional website design will ensure you can compete without needlessly putting your business at a disadvantage.
5. Missed Data Collection
If you don’t have a website, you’ll miss out significantly by not being able to collect valuable information about your customers. Purchasing habits and email addresses are valuable customer details you can get if you have a website. But you can kiss those benefits goodbye if you forego building a website for your business.
No business should be without a website. Finding a website design agency is a good move if you lack one or have one that needs work. Your rivals are already online; your business should be, too.
Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
Kyle Lewis is a seasoned technology journalist with over a decade of experience covering the latest innovations and trends in the tech industry. With a deep passion for all things digital, he has built a reputation for delivering insightful analysis and thought-provoking commentary on everything from cutting-edge consumer electronics to groundbreaking enterprise solutions.
