I keep hearing coaches say that business owners don’t need a website to grow their business online.
They’re wrong.
If you are looking for sustainable growth, want to stop acting as if you work for Instagram, and want your business to attract your ideal clients while you enjoy your kids, go on vacation, or do client work, then you need a website.
The truth is, Instagram is not a marketing or sales strategy. You don’t own the platform, it can be shut down at any time, and your content has an extremely short lifespan.
A website is yours forever.
Let’s dig into what your website is used for and how a website can accelerate your business growth.
What is your website used for? And why social media isn’t enough.
Real talk. What would happen if you lost all of your DMs on Instagram? What would happen if you couldn’t log in to Facebook tomorrow?
I’m not trying to make you sick to your stomach, but I do want you to get a clear picture of the foundation of your business.
If you are relying solely on social media to find and foster client relationships, you need to rethink your game plan. You’ve heard a lot of these arguments for building an email list. - They also apply to your website.
YES, people are and will continue to grow their businesses without a website.
YES, people have made six figures without websites.
NO, social media is not a business strategy you can trust.
Social media requires you to update, post, engage - constantly. Social media does NOT work FOR you if you are not putting the time and energy into it.
Your website, on the other hand, is a business tool that works for you 24/7. The effort you put into your website does not go away and it takes significantly less time to keep your site updated, compared to social media.
What your website can be used for:
Your website serves as a tool to attract your ideal clients and repel people who are not a good fit. Your site will showcase more of the whole picture of who you are, what you have to offer, and your style of serving.
Your website is the most logical place for people to learn about your services and to find your prices. As much as we like to think that our Instagram profile is a comprehensive picture of our business, your potential clients won’t be scrolling through your entire grid to find your prices.
Your website is the tool that can help move people along the sales journey. Your website should have clear call to action statements that tell them what to do next. Ie: Download a freebie, book a clarity call, buy a template. These CTAs can help you capture leads when you are not actively working.
How a website can accelerate your business growth:
A beautifully designed website with clear and compelling copy increases your credibility in a matter of seconds. A site that draws viewers in visually and then delivers the information they are craving, shortens the sales cycle. When your potential clients quickly and effectively get the information they want, while feeling validated and seen, they will be more likely to see you as the expert and be more inclined to reach out.
Having a professional website that speaks directly to your customers and their pain points while showing them what is possible when they work with you, positions you as the expert and enables you to charge what you’re worth. Some clients will need to see that you are in fact legitimate, you have a portfolio, and you have testimonials that speak to the quality of your work. Your website is the most logical place to house this information.
Websites are one of the few tools that actually work FOR you, even when you’re unplugged. While I am not encouraging you to create a website and forget about it, I am saying they are a lot less maintenance and demand a lot less time than social media. Blog posts continue to bring people in through Google, freebies serve as an introduction to the quality you offer, and clear call to action statements help move your potential clients along the sales journey without you doing anything.
While social media is likely an important part of your business, think of it more as a marketing tool. Social is not the end-all-be-all.
Ideally, this is how it goes:
You are actively meeting and connecting with people on social media and in person.
When they ask for more information or how to get in touch with you, you point them to your website.
They will be greeted by a professional, engaging, and easy-to-read website that directs them to download a freebie, set up a call, or buy something. They are able to move forward without stress, and they can quickly decide whether or not you’re a good fit for their needs.
They take action.
Personally, I believe in the power of social media and websites working together. I know I am bias, but having a website - even one that needs to be updated - has helped my confidence, helped me clarify my offers, and has served an important role in growing my business.
Your website can do so much more than simply checking a box in your business plan. When used strategically, your website can help you grow your business with ease.
I’m curious - what holds you back from having a website? Comment below!