Do you want your business to be successful? You need to have a strong digital presence if you want to be competitive in today’s business environment.
Businesses that don’t have a website don’t exist in the minds of consumers. Nearly one-third of businesses still don’t have a website.
You can have a business that has virtually no digital presence and you can survive on referrals. You’re essentially giving away your new customers to your competition.
Read on to learn why a digital presence for your business is necessary to compete in today’s world.
People Look Online First
Think like your potential patient or client. If they’re looking to buy a home or find a new doctor, where will they turn first?
Google.
Those that appear at the top of listings will be considered by the consumer. Nearly 75% of searchers don’t go past the first page of search results.
People will then look at online reviews and click through to a handful of websites. They’ll get a sense of the company and if they like what they see, they’ll call or schedule an appointment.
Credibility and Trust
Online and offline, people want to do business with people they know, like, and trust. Businesses with a website and online presence are trusted more by consumers than ones who don’t.
Your digital presence is the only way to create credibility and trust online. This starts with your website. It then goes into your online listings, reviews, and social media accounts.
People want to feel that your business is legitimate and will be around for a long time. A website can help you demonstrate that.
Offline Marketing Drives Online Traffic
Do you do a lot of offline marketing activities? Networking, promotional materials, and print ads are tied to your online presence.
Advertising no longer happens in isolation. If someone sees a print ad or learns about a new company, they’ll look for them online. Businesses that lack a digital presence will be seen as suspect. People expect businesses to have a functioning website at a minimum.
It’s the same thing with referrals. When someone asks for a real estate agent, they will get a few names from friends and neighbors. They’ll then look up those names online.
Those who have an online presence will have a chance to earn new business. Those who don’t have an online presence won’t be considered.
Get a Digital Presence
A digital presence is a must for any business that wants to attract new clients. If you don’t have a digital presence, where can you begin?
Start with a website. You want to create a user experience that lends itself to creating credibility and trust. It’s an opportunity to tell your story and communicate with potential clients why your business is different from your competition and what you offer.
Do you need help building your online presence? At River Avenue Digital, we offer a wide range of services to help you get your business online. Learn more about our digital services.