Better Business Bureau weighs in on web sites for local business

Few organizations have a more acute understanding of the needs of small businesses than the Better Business Bureau. So when their experts start touting the value of a Web presence, it’s time for entrepreneurs to listen up! The BBB recently published an article asking “How badly does your business need a website?”

BBB CEO Jim Hegarty has an answer. He says, “A website is practically a necessity for attracting new customers in today’s marketplace, but many small business owners haven’t made the time or found the resources to create one,” adding that “…a website might just be the key to surviving and even thriving in this tough economy.”

For small business operators on the fence about investing in a site, the BBB poses four critical questions:

1. Can potential customers find you online? “If you can’t find your business among the top results, neither can potential customers,” according to the BBB.

2. “Does your competition have a website?” It’s more than likely that your local and national competitors do have professional Web sites. When your future customers are looking for your product, service or more importantly YOU, are they finding you or your competition?

3. How’s your online reputation? Even if your business has sustained a little negative feedback on the Web, the BBB points out that “you can mitigate the damage to your business’ reputation by countering with your own website.”

4. “Could you expand your sales online?” Not only can businesses sell physical products; they can sell virtual items like mp3 files and set up online appointment-booking capabilities directly from their site. Whether you run a photography studio or own a boutique, selling online can boost your profitability exponentially!

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