In today’s world, the question of whether a small business needs a website might seem like a no-brainer. But when you’re just starting your business, investing in a professional brand and website may feel out of reach. Or it may be something that you plan to tackle “later.” 

However, I (surprise!) firmly believe that a well-designed website that delivers the answers and solutions your ideal customers are looking for is CRITICAL to your success as a small business or solopreneur. 

Whether you are just starting your business, trying to scale, or are already booked solid but want to leverage your experience to charge a premium for your products or services, your website plays an irreplaceable role in how you connect with your customers.

With all that in mind, I thought I’d round up some of people’s most frequently asked questions about small businesses and websites (thanks, Google!). Here we go! 

Question 1: Can a Business Survive Without a Website?

Sure, some businesses have operated successfully without a website. But let’s think beyond mere survival. A website serves as your virtual storefront where potential customers can learn about your brand, explore your offerings, and engage with your story. In an increasingly digital world, not having a website could mean missing out on numerous opportunities for growth and visibility with your ideal customer. In short, surviving ≠ thriving.

Question 2: Is It Worth Having a Website for a Small Business?

Absolutely. Just because you’re a “small” business or startup doesn’t mean your customers don’t want to learn about your products or services before deciding to buy from you. And having a website isn’t just about having an online presence; it’s about having a credible, trustworthy, and accessible one that serves your ideal customer. 

A well-designed website reflects professionalism, establishes trust, and showcases your expertise. It also provides a platform to communicate your brand’s story, values, and unique selling points to your target audience. This enhanced user experience is essential in building your perceived brand value.

Question 3: What Happens If a Business Does Not Have a Website?

In today’s digital age, customers actively search for your business information. If they can’t find your website, they may question your legitimacy or simply move on to your competitors who do have a website and easy access to information. This can lead to missed opportunities, lower brand visibility, and potential revenue loss. 

If you are a service provider, your website is a place to provide all of the information and details people need to pre-qualify themselves as potential clients (pricing, packages, etc.). Without a website, you will likely end up fielding individual requests for information and spend a lot of time answering the same questions over. and over. and over again. 

Question 4: Will You Lose Business Without a Website?

The short answer? Probably. Today’s consumer spends a lot of time online, and most people want to conduct their own research and review of a business before ever engaging with a phone call or other formal inquiry. If your business doesn’t have a website, you could miss out on many potential customers who prefer to gather information before taking the next step, especially if you are a high-end service provider. 

Question 5: Why Don’t Some Small Businesses Have Websites?

Various studies estimate around 30% of small businesses don’t have a website. Why? Perception of cost, value, and need likely play an outsized role in holding back a brand from finally launching a website. 

Some burgeoning brands may think website development is too expensive or technically challenging. Or they may feel like a website isn’t necessary for their business. Others may rely solely on social media platforms as an online base, underestimating the many ways a website protects and nurtures your brand in ways that social media can’t. 

On the flip side, this means you can stand out in a sea of website-less competitors by creating an online hub that showcases your brand, offerings, and expertise.

Question 6: How Much Should a Small Business Spend on a Website?

The cost of a website varies depending on your business’s needs, complexity, and features. While you might be concerned about budget constraints, consider it an investment rather than an expense. A well-designed website can pay off in increased brand awareness, customer trust, and revenue generation.

It’s essential to remember that there are more ways to build a website now than ever before. Gone are the days when you had to invest tens of thousands of dollars to build a custom site that required regular professional maintenance. The emergence of user-friendly website builders like Showit, high-end templates that can be customized to fit your brand, and condensed launch timelines offered by some web designers (Brand Intensives, anyone?) means that launching a website can be more cost- and time-effective than ever. 

Estimated Costs for Building a Small Business Website

If you’re looking for a ballpark range, the numbers can vary dramatically. According to Forbes, the average cost of a website build for small businesses ranges from $2,000 to $9,000. However, there is a lot of variability within this range. For example:

 

• You could spend next to zero if you use a budget site builder and DIY everything independently (though I wouldn’t recommend this course of action). 
• If you are working with an experienced professional to help with copy, design, development, and basic SEO, I would expect to spend a minimum of $3,500. 
• If you just need help with one part of that process (i.e., you provide all of the copy and assets and need a web designer to help you customize a web template), that cost could go down a bit.

 

The cost of building your website is going to depend on numerous factors. When evaluating cost, it’s essential to step back and look at your long-term goals. Potential customers and clients will visit your website and make rapid decisions about your brand and the value you provide solely on their experience with your site. So, though a website can be a significant investment for small businesses and service providers, an unclear or less-than-professional website could cause you to lose out on potential revenue. 

Final Take

The question of whether your small business needs a website isn’t just about survival—it’s about thriving in a competitive digital landscape. A website can establish your brand’s credibility, expand your reach, and offer a platform to engage with your audience on your terms. As the digital realm becomes increasingly intertwined with our lives, having a website isn’t just an option; it’s a strategic decision that can drive your business forward. 

Ready to take that step? I’ve got you covered! My web design Brand Intensives are specifically designed to help small businesses and solopreneurs launch a beautiful, user-centered website in a matter of days (not months). You can learn more about Brand Intensives here. Here’s to you and your small business!