Most local business owners still do not have a professional website, even though statistics clearly show that as many as 97% of customers search for information about services online before deciding to make contact. A website for a local business is no longer a ‘nice extra’ but has become a necessity.
Three years of experience in wall printing shows that businesses without a professional website have less visibility and find it more difficult to attract new customers.
Local entrepreneurs vs websites – barriers and benefits
Why do local entrepreneurs avoid websites?
When you operate locally, it may seem logical that you do not need online tools. After all, your customers are in the area, they know you personally or through recommendations.
In addition, creating a website is associated with many concerns:
- Lack of technical knowledge on how to go about it
- The belief that it will be very expensive
- Doubts as to whether it will actually bring benefits
- Fear of a complicated process
Why is an online presence necessary for a local business?
Research shows that 98% of consumers use the internet to find out more about local businesses. The situation is similar for business customers. Even when a customer has already decided on a specific service, they check the available options online before using it. This means that a lack of a visible and credible online presence leads to a real loss of customers.
Greater visibility and better customer reach
A professional website provides greater visibility for your business. If someone is looking for a wall printing service or an idea for decorating a room, with a well-developed website there is a good chance that they will find your offer.
A visited website must be aesthetically pleasing. First impressions are crucial – both consciously and subconsciously. If you make a good first impression, you are already in a winning position compared to your competitors.
A website is a salesperson available 24 hours a day. A customer interested in your service can visit the website at any time and find out everything about your offer without ‘bothering you’. If they are interested, they can fill out a contact form, and you can contact them when you have time.
Building an effective website for a local business
One page vs multi page – which option for a local business?
Websites can be divided into two main types. The first is a one-page website, where all the information is on one long page. The second is a multi-page website with several separate tabs.
For the wall printing industry, a business card website usually works well. This approach does not distract the viewer. The customer enters the website, sees the most important information at the top, and scrolls down to follow the planned path: service definition, examples of projects, reviews.
A multi-tab website is an option for the future. It works well when your business has grown and you have more services to present.
Technical aspects and usability
Loading speed – after entering the website address, the customer should immediately see information about your business. A long wait for the materials to load will cause them to go to your competitors.
Mobile responsiveness – for local businesses, over 90% of people browse websites on their phones. If your website is only designed for desktop computers, you have a serious problem. In practice, this means that all elements must be legible and functional even on small screens.
Intuitive navigation – users should be able to find the information they need in a maximum of three clicks. If they have to search for what they need for a long time, they will probably give up.
Content and presentation of the offer
Portfolio and visualisation of possibilities – this is the most important element of any service website. It is difficult to explain in words what wall printing is and what effects can be achieved. Photos and videos are essential to inspire the customer and show that others are already using this technology.
It is best to combine your portfolio with customer reviews of specific projects. Such social proof lends credibility to your work and shows that you provide services to real people.
Contact information – a contact form is a convenient solution from your perspective – the customer leaves their details and you contact them at a time that suits you. But this cannot be the only communication option. Additionally, include an e-mail address on the website – customers can send longer messages or attach files to it.
A website as a tool for local business development
A website is much more than just an online business card. It is a powerful sales and marketing tool that increases sales, attracts customers and builds brand recognition.
It allows you to build credibility and a professional image, reach customers who are actively looking for services online, present your capabilities through your portfolio and provide round-the-clock service to interested parties.
In the context of the wall printing industry, a professional website can be the key to educating customers about new technology and convincing them to use an innovative service.
Summary
A website in local business is no longer an option to consider, but a necessity. The statistics leave no doubt – 97% of customers search for information online before deciding to work with a company.
Whether you plan to build the website yourself or hire professionals, it is essential to understand the functions and standards it must meet.
Are you considering entering the wall printing industry? We offer comprehensive support that includes not only a wall printer, but also assistance in building a professional online presence. A wall printer is just the beginning, but a successful start-up requires more than just equipment.
Contact us for a comprehensive offer and assistance in professionally entering the market and effectively running a business based on modern technologies.
FAQ – frequently asked questions
Is a website really necessary for a local business?
Absolutely. Statistics show that 97% of customers search for information about services online before deciding to make contact. Without a professional website, you lose access to a huge group of potential customers.
How much does a professional website for a local business cost?
The costs vary greatly depending on how it is implemented. A basic website can be prepared on your own for a few hundred pounds or commissioned to specialists for a few thousand. The key is to maintain functionality and a professional appearance.
Which option is better – a one-page or multi-page website?
For most local businesses, a business card website works well. It guides the customer through a planned path from information about the service, through the portfolio, to contact details. A multi-tab website is an option for the future when the business expands significantly.
What is most important on a local business website?
The priorities are: fast loading, mobile compatibility, clear information about services, a portfolio with examples of work, testimonials from satisfied customers, easy contact and legally required documents.
Is it possible to run a local business without a website?
Technically, yes, but this significantly limits your growth potential. Almost all consumers use the internet to search for information about local businesses. Without a website, you lose your competitive edge over companies that have one.
What scares potential customers away from company websites the most?
The main problems are slow loading, lack of mobile responsiveness, complicated navigation, hidden contact information, poor image quality, and an excessive focus on describing the company rather than the benefits to the customer.
