Many SMEs wrongly believe they cannot benefit from a website.

Many small businesses have the misconception that their business cannot benefit from a website; that websites are too expensive or that because they don't use a computer neither do their potential clients.

Here are 7 reasons why your small business NEEDS a website:

Professional Image: Today consumers expect ALL businesses to have a website which lends credibility and builds consumer confidence. More and more consumers are turning to the Internet to research business services or products before purchasing so if you don't have a website you could be losing out to the competition.

Cost Effective: Websites are the most cost effective avenue for promoting your business but many small business owners are afraid that websites cost too much money. This is just not true! The Internet is a user pays medium and a professionally designed website can cost as little as $100/ month. Considering you have the opportunity to reach millions of potential customers, this is a very cost effective method to reach your target market.

Up To Date Information: Websites are the only advertising medium that allow a business to update information about their products and services quickly and easily. A website is an effective way to communicate information that must change regularly for it to be of value to your clients such as schedules, events, promotions, FAQs (frequently asked questions) and service support to your customers. FAQ information like directions, payment terms or product support can be provided across your web site. Your website can always carry your most up-to-date information such as brochures, flyers and other print advertising which can easily become outdated.

24x7 Client Service: Websites are open 24/7, 365 days a year. Your customers (or potential customers) can learn about your products and services at their leisure. With the busy lifestyles most people lead, the convenience of a website is a huge selling point when making purchase decisions.

Extended (Global) Market Reach: Your website through eCommerce can act as a second channel to sell your products/services. If you are a retailer, a website gives you the opportunity to sell your products and, in some cases, your services to a GLOBAL market. Sometimes businesses think that their products or services won't sell online but remember, people are buying cars and even houses online!

Business Showcase: A website allows your business to showcase your work through an image gallery or portfolio and can include customer testimonials supporting your work quality. Regardless what your business does you can demonstrate what makes your business special.

Provide Additional Value: Use your website as a tool to share information with your clients to provide them additional value and set you apart from your competitors. Perhaps you own a landscape company - you can provide value added information such as bulb planting tips, or environmentally friendly ways to deal with pests.