Why Every Small Business Needs a Website (Even If You Have Facebook)
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Includes Free Website Audit Checklist Download
The Facebook Trap
“I don’t need a website—I have Facebook!”
If you’ve ever thought this, you’re not alone. Many small business owners believe that a Facebook page is enough to attract customers. After all, it’s free, easy to update, and everyone’s on Facebook… right?
🚨 Here’s the reality: Relying on Facebook alone is a risky business move. While social media is an important tool, it’s not a replacement for a website. If Facebook shut down tomorrow, would your customers still find you? Would your business survive?
📊 Fast Facts:
- 83% of local consumers conduct online searches daily.
- Facebook's organic reach has declined significantly, now averaging just 2.6% per post.
💡 BONUS: Download our Website Audit Checklist to see if your website is helping or hurting your business!
Facebook Controls Your Visibility (Not You!)
Facebook’s algorithm decides who sees your content. Even if you have 1,000+ followers, your posts might only reach a small fraction of them unless you pay for ads.
You don’t own your audience—Facebook does.
With a website, you own your traffic, your content, and your customer list.
Real Example: A Business That Lost Everything Overnight
The Problem: A local coffee shop relied 100% on Facebook for marketing. When their page got flagged by mistake, they lost access to their business account for weeks. No way to update customers. No way to recover lost leads.
The Solution: They launched a simple website with their menu, contact info, and an email newsletter. Now, they control their customer list and aren’t dependent on Facebook’s policies.
Lesson: A website ensures that your business always has a stable online presence, no matter what happens on social media.
Your Customers Expect a Website
🔎 Where do people search for businesses? Google.
A website helps you:
✔ Rank on Google when people search for what you offer.
✔ Appear professional and credible (A business without a website seems incomplete!).
✔ Provide essential info 24/7 (hours, location, services, reviews).
Example: If someone types “best bakery near me” into Google, a website with SEO can help you show up. Facebook? Not so much.
Pro Tip: Get listed on Google Business Profile to boost local search visibility!
A Website Converts Visitors Into Paying Customers
A website acts as your 24/7 digital salesperson.
A well-designed site can:
✔ Showcase your services & products professionally.
✔ Capture leads with contact forms & email sign-ups.
✔ Offer online booking or sales.
🚨 Facebook doesn’t do any of this effectively.
Example: A barbershop with online booking makes it easy for customers to schedule an appointment—instead of waiting for a Facebook DM.
Check if your website is fast enough: Use Google PageSpeed Insights to test your site’s speed and make improvements.
A Website Builds Long-Term Business Growth
Think long-term:
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Social media trends change (MySpace, anyone?)
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A website is your permanent online foundation
- You can build email lists, optimize for Google, and attract more customers over time.
Not sure if your website performs well? Analyze its speed and functionality with GTmetrix for insights and recommendations.
🚀 Your business deserves a digital home you control.
FAQs: Common Questions About Websites
❓ Can I just use Facebook instead of a website?
🔹 Facebook is a marketing tool, not a foundation. A website is your home base where you control your content, customer list, and branding.
❓ What if I don’t have time to manage a website?
🔹 A simple, well-designed website requires minimal maintenance but brings maximum benefits.
❓ A website is expensive—do I really need one?
🔹 Investing in a basic business website can be a cost-effective strategy, offering long-term benefits compared to ongoing expenses associated with paid advertising.
How to Get Started (Even If You’re Not Tech-Savvy!)
Step 1: Check your online presence—do you have a website? Is it effective?
Step 2: Download our FREE Website Audit Checklist to see where your business stands!
Step 3: Need help? YORK Digital Services can set up a website that works for you.
💬 What do you think? Drop a comment—do you rely on Facebook, or do you have a website?