Why A Website? Why E-Commerce?
Providing information, conducting business and keeping in contact with your customers online with your own website is becoming expected in the marketplace. It is now almost as important as having a telephone number or a fax machine.
According to industry statistics, small businesses that use the internet as an integral part of their business have higher revenues than those that don't. The differences are pronounced: Companies that have 'said yes' to internet average $3.79 million annually compared to $2.72 million for those that have not. That's 34% more business for those with a website.
Why? It's just this simple according to Rich Harshaw, Monopolize Your Marketplace CEO:
- Web Sites Are Non-Intrusive: The internet is the greatest medium to allow prospects to find out information about a company without the pressure of having to buy now. This lack of pressure allows prospects to browse a website at their convenience...and at their own pace. Then, if the information is good, and if it's presented properly, there's a high likelihood that the prospect will buy. The site can do the selling for the business.
- Biggest Bang For The Buck: A business website can be used in a multitude of different ways. It can educate prospects about the reasons they should buy from a company; it can inform customers about upcoming sales or events. It can dispense industry news, important statistics and internal research. Plus, business can be expanded from just your local pull to a nationwide marketplace. Aggressive entrepreneurs can even go international with their business and participate in the global economy. The best part: all this can be accomplished on a very small budget.
- Lower Costs Of Doing Business: Any transaction completed online saves a business money. Some of the savings are obvious: There are no brick and mortar store fronts to build and maintain; employee costs and taxes can be slashed tremendously. Some of the savings may be a little less apparent: By remaining open for business 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, the number of selling hours are increased significantly. Orders that come in online or via email can be handled and shipped with very little employee time...or chance for error. If a website is equipped to handle e-commerce, the funds from online sales can be deposited within 24 to 48 hours...which can dramatically increase cash flow.
Regardless of the size of your company or what industry you're in, you should seriously consider getting an online presence. We're here to help you.
