I have social media, so do I still need a website?

Yes, pure and simple. But why I hear you ask. See my WHY website tips below:

• 1st of all, it will help you get found. Google will look more favourable upon you. The more social media profiles and exposure you have on the internet, the better you can be found on Google.

It doesn’t have to be fancy and detailed, just something that explains who you are, what you do, what services you offer and of course how people get in contact.

• 2nd, have you ever thought what happens if social goes down? What happens to all of that content and branding, answer zip! It goes into thin air. Where’s your branding now?

Or, What happens if Facebook or Instagram gets hacked? Have you also considered how people would now find you plus all of that hard work that you have been doing creating your brand gets instantly deleted?

Have you ever had problems posting? (I’ve even had days where I haven’t been able to post to platforms for days!) Your website will always be there.

• 3rd, you have no control of the platforms. Have you thought of a life without social? Heavens forbid, but what happens if one of your platforms decides to shut up shop? At least you still can be found on the internet, you can easily divert your attention to blogs, plugins or posts without losing your rhythm, regularity or content ideas while still getting your name out there.
• 4th, consider it a backup. Your website can be your standby. You would also want to reserve it for the future, who knows where your brand will go. Consider it a way of protecting yourself and your brand. Think of it as protecting your asset.

 

Where to from here for building a website

There are loads of websites companies out there that are low-cost that can get you up and running with a simple template that doesn’t have to cost the earth.

Your first stop is buying your website domain, generally, they are a 12-month subscription service (known as a domain hosting service).

There are a few options when building the website, you can outsource, there are many online freelances that can help. Website includes, Fiverr, Freelancer or Upwork.

If you are a little savvy you can buy a website theme and install it yourself on to your website (called a CMS, content management system). Most have step by step instructions that will allow you to load it. Your CMS will allow you to have the flexibility to load images, text and decide on the number of pages you would like.

If you think that you have a complex website and you have no idea where to start I’d suggest setting up a few meetings with website companies. Make sure that you gain a couple of website quotes and make sure you list your requirement so that you are charged accordingly.

If you are not sure how to start this or what to ask, visit my other blog post about: How do I create or write a website? What’s required? It will give you a good starting block and get your creative mind flowing.

If you would like more social media and digital advice, keep reading my blog.