Small Business Internet Guide-SBOguide

Thinking about the importance of a business web site, I was reminded of a conversation I had not too long ago with a business professional who was finally getting around to putting up his first website. He lamented that clients had been asking for his web address and he was finding himself embarrassed to say that he didn’t have one.

So he was finally taking the plunge, and quite proud that he had made the move. When I asked him what he intended to do with his website, he replied that he just wanted to get something “up there” so he could tell clients what his web address was if they were to ask.

I have the feeling that a lot of professionals view their website this way - sort of a right of passage. Something they have to finish and get behind them. Then they can finally say that they have one; and move on to more important things.

How much more impact could their website have if it was viewed as a strategic partner? A good website can be much more than something you check off on your to-do list. It can promote your business 24/7, provide useful information about your products or services, make promotional offers, help establish your professional credentials, offer testimonials, and create an opportunity to positively influence existing and prospective clients and customers.

So how do you view your website? Have you made it a strategic partner, or is it just viewed as something you needed to do so you could “get it behind you”? Take a close look at what your competitors are doing, you may be surprised. If your website isn’t earning its keep, now is the time to do something about it.