Why Do I Need an Online Presence?
Can you think of a single business that doesn’t have some form of online presence? They’re becoming harder and harder to find — and that’s a good thing!
Your online presence is an extension of your business’s identity. Whether you offer a nationwide service or cater to a local niche audience, people are looking for businesses like yours online. In fact, data shows that 46% of all online searches are for local products and services, while a whopping 97% of consumers learn more about local businesses online than any other channel.
There’s no doubt that customers need an easy way to find and connect with you, and building a strong online presence can put you in the right place at the right time.
Still not convinced? Consider these four reasons why you need to create and protect your online persona:
1. Your Online Persona is Your Reputation
More than 80% of shoppers conduct research online prior to reaching out to a business or making a buying decision. The more they can learn about your business, the better positioned you are to earn their trust (and their purchases!).
Let’s face it: anyone can be anyone online these days. You want to build a layer of credibility around your name and make people feel confident about doing business with you.
2. Your Online Persona is a 24/7 Salesperson
Most people like to research online instead of reaching out to a live salesperson, and if you have a strong online presence, you’re catering to your audience’s expectations. Even during after hours, your online presence can serve as a salesperson that provides all the information your buyers need to make a decision.
3. It Creates the Right First Impression
Users have high expectations for their experiences with a brand or business. Crafting a thoughtful, intentional online persona can ensure each visitor gets the same, consistent experience every time they visit your website, social channels, blog, or other outlets.
4. It Expands Your Audience
A strong online presence isn’t about being everywhere — it’s about choosing strategic locations that will place you in front of the right people. Essentially, you’re inviting customers to come to you (this is what we call “pull” marketing or inbound marketing) instead of chasing after the customer.
When you choose the right online locations to establish your presence, you have a wider audience to promote to and connect with.
How to Build a Powerful Online Persona
If you want to create a professional image that will instill confidence and trust in your potential customers, your best path forward is to work with a professional website developer who can help you craft your strategy. Your website is the anchor point to which all other channels connect (social media, blogs, etc), which is why we recommend starting here before branching out.
Our team of skilled developers works directly with you to create a user-friendly, consistent experience that will allow you to put your best foot forward every time you gain a visitor. Contact our team today for a consultation and let us help you tell your story.