A digital presence isn’t optional—it’s essential. Small businesses without one risk losing customers. Here’s why going online is key to staying competitive.
Even if you run a local shop, a consulting business, or a freelance service, your customers are online, searching for products and services like yours. The good news? You don’t need to be a tech expert to build your presence. Here’s why having a website and an online presence is critical for small businesses.
1. 76% of consumers search online first
Think about the last time you needed a service. Did you check online reviews? Look up opening hours? Compare options? Your customers do the same. If they can’t find you online, they’ll find your competitors instead. We often forget, once we become a business owner, or even a marketeer, that we are ourselves, a customer first too. You go out and buy food, compare insurances, cars, go on holiday, check out hotels, reviews. Your customers have the identical behavior. Be your own customer in your business and think about what service you expect?
2. Credibility & Trust: “If you’re not online, do you even exist?”
A website and social media presence give your business legitimacy. Without them, potential customers might wonder if you’re a real, trustworthy business.
- A website acts as your digital storefront—it tells your story, showcases your expertise, and provides key details.
- Social media platforms allow you to engage with customers, answer questions, and build relationships.
3. You’re open 24/7
Your physical store or office has opening hours. Your website? Always open. Customers can browse your services, read reviews, and even place orders at any time. Even if you don’t have a webshop, people can still find your products, your services and get an answer to their questions, without stepping in to your store. You are servicing them, while you are sleeping.
4. Reach more customers (Beyond your local area)
With a strong online presence, your business isn’t limited by geography. You can attract customers from different cities, or even globally, with the right digital marketing strategies. Depending on the service / product you are offering, people will go a long way to get that product.
In the past, IKEA Dubai once did a marketing campaign, where people could pay with the time spent to get to the store. They knew distances were long and people would not just get in to their car and drive a couple of hours just to browse the store, even if they have the best swedish balls in their restaurant 🙂 . Time is money. We are in a very busy society that is high demanding and if we can save time by checking all the information online, you are reaching further than the local residents.
5. Cost-Effective marketing that works while you sleep
Traditional advertising (flyers, newspaper ads) costs a lot and has limited reach. Digital marketing allows you to reach the right audience at a fraction of the cost.
Example: A small bakery could use Instagram to showcase new products, get customer feedback, and attract more foot traffic—all for free.
6. Your competitors are already online
If you don’t establish a digital presence, you’re giving your competitors an advantage. Customers searching for your service will find someone else instead.
How to get started (No tech skills needed!)
- Claim your Google Business Profile – It’s free and helps you appear in local searches.
- Create a simple website – Platforms like Wix and WordPress make it easy.
- Set up one or two social media accounts – Choose platforms where your audience spends time (e.g., Facebook for local businesses, Instagram for visuals, LinkedIn for B2B).
- Encourage reviews and testimonials – Happy customers will help build your credibility.
Conclusion: take the first step today
Your customers are online. Are you? Taking the first step doesn’t require a big investment, just the willingness to start. A simple website and a social media page can make all the difference.
Next Step: Need help setting up your first website or choosing the right platform, then stay tuned for our next post, or hit the contact button to get in touch with us.