Does every business no matter how large or small need a presence on the Internet? Absolutely, and not just for the traditional reasons, but primarily because your website is an extension of your brick and motor, your home based business, or your business on wheels. Everyone in the business of making money can benefit from letting potential customers know who you are and what you're all about.
Competition in the new millennium is unyielding. You are a success today and a failure tomorrow. It is your website that will tell customers that you are ready. Ready for what? Whatever changes come your company's way, you are ready to compete.
Your business needs a website because:
1. You want to offer 24 hour customer service. Your customers will be able to visit your Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) page and learn immediately your hours of operation, phone and fax number, address, directions and a map if necessary. Remember customers are not mind readers and if you make getting information about your business too difficult they will simply look elsewhere.
2. You want your business to provide more "bang-for-the-buck." Customers trust business owners that know their craft and are leaders in the industry, even if your business is located in a town with a population of 652. Providing articles, news information about your area of expertise and statistical data on your web site may mean the difference between a customer using your business or not using you.
3. You need a sound way to gather data about your customer's opinions and needs. You need to know what is on your customers mind so you can provide cutting edge customer service and anticipate their needs.
4. Your website will provide another essential way for your customers to contact you, i.e. email and online forms.
5. Your website will make your company more accessible and demonstrate to your customers that you are willing to move into the world of global exposure.
6. A website presence allows you to tell your company's story. You can provide testimonials from satisfied customers and acknowledge superior employees.
7. Your website will allow you to recruit employees and publicize the great career/freelance opportunities at your company.
8. Your company website will allow you to have a competitive advantage over those who don't have a website, while equally competing with those who do.
9. A company website allows you to create an awareness of social issues, acknowledging to customers that you are a sensitive committed humanitarian.
10. Should the business owner decide to sell the business, a company website would definitely be an asset.

About The Author

Jessica M. Davis is a creative dedicated web designer who has worked in the industry for over seven years. Formerly a Web Technology Analyst for a major bank in Michigan, Ms. Davis is a freelance web designer who seeks to give customers relevant web design information so intelligent web development decisions can be made. Ms. Davis firmly believes technology should not be feared and those company's that will be most successful are the ones willing to use technology and the Internet to provide an efficient online business card with exceptional service delivery.
Jessica M. Davis may be reached at 313.204.0325, (313.259.7424 Fax), at www.jdavisassociates.com or by mail at J. Davis & Associates Publishing, P. O. Box 44782, Detroit, MI 48244-0782.
j_marie27@hotmail.com