It wasn’t too long ago that business cards ruled first impressions. Everyone and every business had more cards than they could hand out. Today, that’s not so much the case. Just think about it — when was the last time you were handed a business card? Heck, you and your company might not even believe in business cards. So why the shift, and where did those 3.5” x 2” rectangles go?
Here at Venta Marketing, we believe in straightforward answers. Sitting on the fence doesn’t do anyone any good. So we are going to draw a line in the sand and say that your website is indeed just an expensive business card. However, this is unattached to any negative connotation. An expensive business card is arguably the best investment you can make in the success of your business. Now let’s start to unpack this.
Why Business Cards Are Becoming More Archaic
The internet has revolutionized how the world turns. In one way or another, every aspect of life has been altered due to the construction of the digital atmosphere. Today, you’d be hard-pressed to find a business that doesn’t touch the power that comes with intertwining a company and the internet. The digital space enables greater customer reach and service potential, all at a fraction of the cost compared to traditional marketing means.
Almost everyone you know probably has a smartphone. It has become an extra appendage in our society, as people are continuously connected to the internet. Over 50 percent of all online traffic comes from mobile devices. In total, Google receives over 5.6 billion searches daily — from all platform types. John Adams once said in a court trial hearing that, “facts are stubborn things.” Well, it can’t be ignored that 21st-century consumers live online, and in order for a business to survive, they need to meet them where they eat, sleep, and breathe.
Over 15 years ago, business cards served as that first impression for consumers and clients. In 2019, people don’t need a small piece of cardstock to understand who you are and what you do. Your website gives them everything they need — and more.
Why a Good Website is Vital to Selling Success
First impressions matter. You don’t get more than one, and often once someone passes judgment, it can be difficult to alter it. Since your website will serve as the primary first touchpoint with consumers, let’s hammer home why a good website is vital to selling success.
- In 50 milliseconds, users form an opinion about your website.
- 57 percent of internet users won’t recommend a business with a poorly designed website on mobile devices.
- Roughly 90 percent of online consumers are less likely to return to a site that they had a bad experience with.
- 75 percent of consumers say they make judgments on a company’s credibility based on the company’s website.
To say that your website does a majority of the legwork when it comes to getting off on the right foot with consumers is a gross understatement. So how do you ensure your website converts visitors into leads? Well, it’s a business card after all — what made physical business cards so effective for so long?
- Good Design
- Explain Who You Are and What You Do
- How to Connect for Further Steps / Information
First and foremost, your website needs to be visually stimulating and appealing. No matter how great your services or products are, if your website isn’t well designed you’re going to miss out on a lot of potential revenue.
Next, the beauty of a website acting as a business card is an unlimited amount of space is provided. You can fit endless information on your website that details who your company is, what you do, and why you’re the best at it. The retail space on a website is also moldable — it can be edited, swapped, and rearranged. Additionally, with a website acting as a business card, new possibilities are available. No longer do you have to rely solely on text and imagery. Video and immersion technology is creating a new dimension for user experience.
Finally, business cards carried contact information. A successful website points its consumers to the next step in the selling process. Whether that is inquiring for more information, or moving web visitors to a checkout page, call to actions must be visible and direct. Physical business cards served their purpose. Now websites are up to the plate at connecting people to information. We suggest to stop printing those make-shift coasters and pump that money into the new era of first impressions. *cough* website *cough*
Need A New Website?
At Venta Marketing, we are helping businesses meet their goals head-on. As leaders in the digital marketing industry, we know what great web design looks and feels like. Contact us today to inquire about our web services!