You’re looking for a new service, maybe a photographer, a bakery, or a web designer. You check online, but… no website. Just a vague social media profile. You move on.
Your potential customers are doing the same.
In the world we live in today, it is essential to have an online presence. Your website could be someone’s first impression of your business. And as many of us know, first impressions matter.
Why is Social Media not Enough?
Although social media is great, since it’s free, flexible, and can connect you to your audience, it shouldn’t be your only digital presence.
- Social media algorithms change
- It’s hard for your customers to understand/know your pricing and services
- Not everyone is on social media
A website is where your businesses home is. Social media should be a glimpse of your business.
Websites have become so important and can make or break your business. According to the Stanford Web Credibility Project, 84% of consumers believe a business with a website is more credible than one with only a social media presence. Additionally, 75% of consumers admit to making judgments on a company’s credibility based on its website design.
There are tons of reasons a business might need a website, but the biggest one? Credibility. People want to know you’re legit — and your online presence is the first impression that does the talking.
Sure, websites come in all shapes and sizes. But most businesses just need a clean, simple site that shows what they do and why people should care. And trust me, that little slice of the internet can go a long way.
Here’s why a website is a must-have:
- Builds credibility
- Your customers are already searching for you online
- Reaches new markets and audiences
- Gives you more insights on what’s working (and what’s not)
What Makes a Website Credible?
We’ve established that businesses need websites to establish credibility, but it’s not just having a website. It is also important for your website to have:
- A professional design have a clean layout, readable fonts, and easy navigation
- Contact information is easily accessible
- Have updated content: nothing screams your website is outdated than lack of updated content
- Use real pictures and reviews.
Download my free website audit checklist below.
But I’m just a small business, Do I really need a website?
Absolutely! Whether you are a solo baker, side-hustle crafter, a local service provider, or an Etsy Seller, a website helps you. The following is only some of the ways a website can help:
- Establish credibility
- Answer questions ahead of time
- Save time by automating inquiries
- Increase visibility to local searches
- Sell directly or guide people to where they can buy/book
What Should be on Your Website?
A lot of people put off building a site because they think it has to be complicated when in reality, it doesn’t.
Here is what most service-based businesses need:
- Homepage: who you are, what you do, and why people should care
- About: Your story, your mission, your values
- Services/Products: What you offer and how it helps
- Contact- How people can reach you (email, form, calendar, etc..)
- Reviews/Testimonials
- Portfolio or Gallery (if it applies)
- FAQ section to handle common questions
Nice to have but not required:
- Blog
- Lead magnet
- Pricing page or guide
How to Get Started (Even if You’re Not Techy)
- Buy A domain (use Hostinger, Squarespace, Showit) like landscape social.com. Many companies bundle domains with hosting.
- Choose a platform such as WordPress, Squarespace, or Shopify.
- Pick a template or hire a designer (like me!)
- Gather content: Write your copy, gather your photos, get testimonials/reviews
- Launch and share it everywhere.
If you’re serious about giving your business a solid shot at success, investing in a website isn’t just smart — it’s essential.
Thinking it’s time to show up online?
Hit the button below, fill out a quick form, and I’ll get in touch so we can chat about what you need.