Maximizing the Internet for your Business

April 2014

As we enter into 2011, we hear the word "change" constantly. Not only is change the motto for the political arena, but it is also the cardinal theme of the business world. The internet allows every business owner to act as a change agent and take control of his/her business. A well designed website creates a professional image online, enables you to sell products and services, improves customer service, and allows your business to generate new leads. In today's global economy, having a website is critical to staying ahead of your competition. The internet allows small businesses to access and gain from a market that is not efficiently available through other channels. The World Wide Web is an entire universe of customers; it is a market of demands and it is imperative that you as a supplier of flowers, baked goods, legal services, real estate, money management, massages, greatly cooked meals, and widgets, be present. Additionally, unlike traditional market places, where folks go to buy and sell, the internet is increasingly becoming a place where people go to gather information and dynamically utilize that information before acting. There are ways the internet can maximize returns for your business:

Using the internet as a custom application. One of the most overlooked values the internet offers to small businesses is its capacity to be used as a dynamic and powerful application. Forward thinking companies have already begun using the internet to better communicate with employees and customers. Imagine having customers and employees interact and share data on one online system accessible anywhere and anytime with no software to install.

Inexpensive & frequent advertising. A website designed with a content management system allows the owner to make quick and effortless changes anytime. Businesses can have an online brochure that displays products and services, and describe them in greater detail online than by using any other marketing channels at a fraction of the cost of paper media.

Your business stays open 24/7. Having a website means that your business is working 24/7, 365 days a year, in every country around the globe and reaches a broader audience than any other medium. Therefore, it is an extra convenience to your customer base at no additional cost to you. Now that's good customer service. A simple "Contact Us" page where customers can enter their information and ask you question at any time of the day allows you to see what types of inquiries your business gets. By collecting email addresses, you now open up an avenue for emailing "prospects."

Most content rich medium. The Internet by far offers the most flexibility in communicating to your clients and potential clients. Anyone that visits your site is there to look for precise information that relates to them. You can use audio, video, or graphics to convey content.

Having a good website builds credibility. It sends a message that you are a serious investor in your own business by trying to make it as seamless as possible for customers to reach you. As we enter 2011 with more uncertainty while hoping for greater economic change, businesses small and large need to understand the value of an impactful website. The World Wide Web is the number one place that people turn to find information and if your business is not there, not only will you be making it more difficult for people to find you, but you will be removing yourself from the competition.

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