With the rise of social media over the last decade, small businesses have come to rely on those platforms as a method of communication with their customers. Social media can provide small businesses with tools that help them connect more intimately with their clients and serve them in a unique way. However, some small businesses choose to solely use platforms such as Facebook to communicate their services or products to their customers, possibly abandoning their website altogether. It’s important to recognize the importance of both and their role within a small business.
When we think about the digital landscape, there can be many avenues for a customer to interact with a company. We usually ask the question, “What mission is this person trying to accomplish?” Sometimes, it’s just to look up hours, other times it’s to see if they offer a specific good or service. We need to recognize that a website can and should answer all of these questions, but they can also do more than that.
Websites are used to establish the brand’s presence and make a declaration about who they are and what they offer. It should clearly define their mission and make sure to list their goods or services. However, a website is only as good as it is maintained. Slow websites with outdated information or incomplete product listings are not a service to their customers and will often turn them towards a different platform. A website is also a great place to let your tone and branding colors shine.
For timely updates, social media is usually the preferred method of communication. Updates such as delayed openings or closures beyond normal operating hours can be posted here. We also see businesses sharing sales or discounts that are relevant to that time. It’s important to keep social media accounts up to date as well so customers know that they are relevant. Keeping hours and contact information up to date on your social platforms is equally as important but it should not be the only place this information exists.
There is still value in having a well-performing website. It’s a great way to make a good first impression with your customers and can give them a complete picture of your business. Knowing how to use both social media and your website to attract and retain customers is an important part of running a successful small business. If you find yourself needing help with either of these don’t hesitate to reach out! We’d be happy to help!