It’s not a surprise that today’s potential customers use the internet to learn everything they can about a new establishment. In fact, for restaurants alone, close to 80% of patrons are more likely to check a restaurant’s website before dining or ordering take-out and delivery.

A quick search on Google gives immediate access to close-by restaurants, cafes, bakeries, and even boutiques and other storefronts. Consumers want to know about your establishment before choosing to buy from you, so it is essential to ensure that your establishment’s brand and story are represented properly online.

For both your customers and your establishment, investing in an online presence can hold significant benefits. Below, we highlight three reasons why it is essential for local businesses, no matter their size, to create an online presence and how local businesses can leverage their online presence in the best possible way.

1. An Online Presence Makes Your Establishment More Accessible

It’s no secret that having an online presence can help make your establishment more accessible to consumers. When a consumer has a question regarding a service or a product, he or she will turn to the internet first before trying it. It’s important to make sure that these potential consumers can easily find you online, and developing your online presence can help you do just that. 

Your online presence should lay out information that your new or frequent customers want to find out, like your hours, menus, events, and products. There are plenty of ways to execute this, whether it be through a website, social media, or Google My Business. An online presence makes it easier for patrons to access information about your establishment.

2. An Online Presence Helps You Reach a Wider Audience

Unlike your business, the internet runs 24/7. There aren’t locked doors, “Closed” and “Open” signs or voicemails picking up missed calls. No matter what time of the day it is, someone can always access search engines, like Google or Bing, and other websites. 

By establishing an online presence, you are opening your business up to customers outside of your business hours. An online presence can open up your business to individuals who may not be able to make it to your store or restaurant easily, whether it be because of a disability or lack of transportation. 

Another way to reach a much wider audience is through social media. With platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, you can share your establishment’s highlights, new products, and other news. In addition to this, happy customers can share information about your establishment with their friends and family! An online presence with your website and social media allows customers to easily share your products and services with others, which will ultimately help bring new business to your establishment in the long run. 

3. With an Online Presence, You Can Build Trust with Your Customer-Base

Trust among those in your customer base can hold many benefits for your establishment. Customer trust can help bring in new business for your establishment and help you retain loyal customers. Having an online presence opens the door for your customers to leave reviews, questions, and comments about your services and products. 

Being online allows you to be transparent about your business, answer any question a customer may have, and even respond to reviews if needed. A customer can leave a glowing review, letting potential and current patrons know that you are a dependable business. But, some customers can leave negative reviews or comments that can hurt your business’ name.

When a customer is unhappy with your services or products and leaves a review, you can reach out to them online and try to resolve their issue so that you can manage your reputation. Even if the customer is still unhappy after you have reached out to them, others who come across your response can see that you tried to make things right, rather than simply ignore their complaints.

It’s Time to Go Online and Be Present

It’s essential to build an online presence to reach as many people as possible. While building an online presence can take a significant amount of time and resources, it can also have a significant impact on your local establishment’s bottom line. If you need assistance regarding how you can effectively build your online presence, reach out to us today to get started.