I am stunned to learn that ONLY 71% of businesses have a website in 2024!

Some 71% of businesses now have a website in 2024. This is an increase from previous years, and yes Covid-19 had a huge impact on these figures. We witnessed a huge shift to online business, from commerce and remote work to online ordering for restaurants and service businesses.

All companies big and small now realise the importance of having an online presence to;

Reach a wider audience
Remain competitive in today’s digital landscape
Provide customers with ease of access
Increase sales, bookings and service requests
Provide your business with an authenticity of trading

Though COVID-19 has accelerated the trend for businesses to establish a web presence, this trend will continue!. Customers don’t just expect it, they demand it! If you aren’t connected you are missing out on business!

Code-free website builders have also made it easier than ever for businesses to establish an online presence, but don’t get wrapped up in “free” website builders. If you don’t “own your space” don’t expect to be able to do as you please in it! Your website is now your shopfront and as with bricks and mortar, there are costs and fees, but they don’t need to be expensive.

To start with you need to register your business name, $44 for one year or $102 for three years. Your domain will cost from $15 to $40 per year.

*NOTE: You can not own a .au domain without a registered business name unless the domain is your own personal name.

Your business could be at a substantial risk if you are relying on any social media platforms to build your business, especially with no website or platform YOU DON’T OWN!

The Facebook algorithmn may incorrectly label a post as "hate speech" or going against Meta's guidlines. These aren't isolated incidents, it's happening more and more frequently, often multiple times, and I've heard the same complaint from thousands of other business owners and marketers over the last few years. You only need to check out Meta’s LinkedIn Profile and review the comments to see a small snippet of the extent of the issue

Hacking.

Violation of community standards

Verification issues.

Most social media platforms are guilty of Poor customer supporT

Many small businesses tell me they can’t afford a website, but in reality, how can you afford not to invest time and money into a space that you OWN?

You can’t dismiss social media completely, it's a vital part of business today, but when used correctly you can build your following on your website. Use social media to drive traffic to your stand-alone website and online store if you want to remain competitive. You just can't rely on social media alone. It is just putting your business in the hands of organisations you have zero control over.

You need a website if you are serious about building your business! Don't rely on social media a;one to do it for you! This post isn’t meant to garner business for myself, there are so many free platforms you can use to build a website.