Do you even need a website?

YellowPages Ads

Let’s face it, advertising in the YellowPages is expensive enough and now, with the online version, YellowPages Online has become more visible to search engines. Add to that the other web-based directories that offer to display your business listing, include the hours, map of your location and let you write a paragraph or two about your business - all for free or a minimal charge. So… if your business is well listed on the internet - do you really need a website?

I can think of at least one terrific reason to have your own website - to distinguish yourself from other similar businesses.

Think of it, the YellowPages does a terrific job of listing local businesses under categories that we look for when we need to solve a problem.  We all know that all it takes is money (not customer service)  to get a business name and phone number listed in the YellowPages. When you’re looking at the YellowPages,  confronted with several businesses that can solve your problem (broken dishwasher, need a sign, etc.) how do you decide who can solve the problem the best for you? A simple name and number gives you little to go on. The larger ads help somewhat because they have more space to persuade you to choose them. Reality is that larger ads cost a lot more. If you’re looking for the best value for your dollar (when getting your problem solved), will the larger ads lead you to the right people?

A website that features your business breaks away from the restrictions of the Yellow Pages. The website allows you to distinguish your business from the other listings with not only pictures but also with well worded descriptions of services.  Since you no longer get billed by the number of words you use a website can gives you a chance to answer those questions that you know are in your customers minds (because you hear them regularly).

Advertising in the YellowPages can make a lot of sense but don’t miss out on the opportunity to attract your type of customers - those who call because of the uniqueness of your business - those who find you on the web.

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