Why a Website is a Must-have in 2019

It's 2019. We're amidst the era of the rise of the Millenials- the fastest growing segment of the workforce. This tech-savvy generation (hands up if you were born between 1980-2000) are armed with the latest gadgets (hello smartphones & laptops) and they do the majority of their communicating through said gadgets. Today, the quickest way to gain digital presence is through snapping a photo, adding some hashtags and uploading it to social media. So with the continuous rise in popularity of social media platforms, are websites even relevant anymore?

Tech-savvy Millenials are the fastest growing segment in the workforce. Is your business catering to their purchasing preferences and habits with a great website and online presence?

Yes! Think of your website as the foundation of metaphorical online house and your social media platforms as the windows. Social media offers consumers glimpses into your brand or business- a photo of a killer jacket you sell or a post about the features of the newest hiking gear your company just released. Just like windows are a great way to take a glimpse into get a snapshot of the vibe and style of someone's house, the use of social media platforms are a great way for consumers to get a quick glimpse into your company.

Today's popular social media platforms direct consumers to their website where more information is gathered and purchases are made (Image property of Sullivan Marketing Co.)

Like any form of marketing, the ultimate goal is to get consumers to buy what you're selling. Popular platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat and Twitter act as funnels. They lead consumers to your website where they can gather more information, reach out and become more engaged and (hopefully) make a purchase. Websites are an essential part of any current business' success and here's why:

It's the face of your company. Websites are your virtual storefront, or in many businesses cases, the only storefront. According to Forbes, e-commerce is continuing to become more and more popular compared to traditional brick and mortar businesses with even the most well-known brands have an online presence. In fact, before making an in-store purchase, 82% of consumers will consult their phones. If you're selling something, having a solid website is key in today's world.

Websites allow you to have complete control over what message you want to portray to your customers. There are no character limitations. Unlike social media platforms, you have complete creative freedom. Your options are virtually endless. Upload as many or as few photos as you please. Write endless amounts of text (although we don't recommend it- being clear and concise is best, but you don't always need to be limited to 100 characters). On your website you have the freedom to tell your story exactly the way you envisioned- not the way Zuckerberg wants it told.

Having a website increases your online marketing performance. Because we all want a better ranking on Google, right? There are literally billions of online searches occurring daily. By having a website, one can write content and structure it in a way that it optimizes your presence online. Seriously, when's the last time you went to the second page of Google?

Did you know that 82% of consumers will consult their phones before making an in-store purchase. Will your website convince them to open their wallets?

In summary: Websites are as relevant as ever in 2019. They act as the face of your company, allow owners to have complete creative freedom and control over their message, and help improve their online presence making it easier for consumers to find you to purchase something.

Are you looking to create a website or need help updating an existing one? Contact Kate via kate@sullivanmarketingco.com today!