In this digital age, a strong online presence in the form of a social media page, a website, a blog and an e-commerce platform – preferably all four – is one of the best things you can do for your business, and for your customers. For your company to remain competitive, consumers need to be able to easily find your website and all your product and service information with just one click. In fact, I find it impossible to overstate the importance of an online presence which:

Enhances accessibility. When a potential customer wants more information about a product or service, they’re likely to do their research online. It’s an effortless way for them to browse prices and compare all services with a simple click. A Google search should provide them with all the information they need.

Enables your business to reach the widest possible audience. By linking to your website from social channels, you can exponentially increase inbound traffic and increase your customer base. This is because it makes it easy for your company to be found by people who don’t yet know about your business but who are interested in what you do.

Enables you to showcase your products and services. You can easily spark and hold the interest of potential clients by showing what your business offers and by sharing testimonials or success stories from happy customers. It is an easy way to let people know what you have to offer. With a few simple clicks, your customers can see what you’re all about.

Provides affordable and effective marketing. An online presence is a simple yet effective way to get persons interested in your company. You can advertise your products and services for free across your social media sites and on your blog. An added bonus is the “shareability” of social media, which allows your customers to easily spread the word about your business to all their friends.

Helps build relationships. Social media is all about building relationships. It gives you the opportunity to connect and communicate with your target audience and to create meaningful relationships. By interacting with your customers in real time, you can build trust, loyalty and confidence in your brand.

Improves customer service. Instant access to feedback from your customers helps you immediately address complaints and/or resolve any issues at hand.

Show you what works – and what doesn’t. Tracking metrics of your site and social media accounts helps you gain valuable insights. Being able to see to see the numeric proof of what works and what doesn’t allows you to make improvements in every aspect of your business

The digital age is here to stay! And a strong online presence can potentially skyrocket your business. The sooner you begin using this immensely powerful marketing tool, the more leads you can generate and nurture. So, take the leap, invest the time, and reap the many business rewards being online can provide!