The Value of Conducting Business Online

As the online marketplace continues to grow, it's clear that many small businesses have taken advantage of the opportunities available to them. In fact, it's estimated that over 65 million businesses were operating in 2018 alone and many of those are relying on their own websites or other online tools to be successful. We are in the business of building high-performance websites, but still find many business owners missing out. If you’re still unsure as to whether your business requires a website, read on.

SMMEs Drive Online Economic Activity

In today's business world, the internet is a very important tool for small business owners. It allows companies to reach customers all over the world and many rely on it to make a living. Online activities account for a huge amount of economic activity:

• Online retail sales in South Africa alone reached the R50 billion mark in 2022.
• SMMEs are driving this growth; they have grown faster because they're more likely to use online channels like social media or e-commerce websites to market themselves and connect with customers.

But the internet isn't just important for businesses. It's also vital for citizens. The internet allows people to access information, communicate with others and participate in public life. It provides a voice to people who might otherwise be ignored by traditional media outlets. And it makes it easier for them to take part in political processes that are likely to have an impact on businesses too.

Online Activity Abroad

Currently there are an estimated 33 million small businesses in the United States. And many of them rely on the internet to make a living. The internet is an important tool for small businesses because it allows them to reach customers all over the world.

It also boosts employment initiatives.

With small businesses in the US generating millions of jobs per year. In the 2020/2021 period, an estimated 8.7 million jobs were created.

The internet can also be a great way for small businesses to get their name out there. Many people search online before making a purchase, which means that if you are not showing up in these searches then you’re missing out on potential customers.

Access to the Online Marketplace

The internet is an important tool for small businesses because it allows them to reach customers all over the world. The convenience, cost effectiveness and ease of use of the internet make it an ideal way for small businesses to operate online. Here's how:

• Global reach: Your website can be viewed by anyone in any country around the world, no matter where you're located or what language they speak!
• Convenience: Online shopping offers a wide variety of payment options and free delivery has become one of its strongest selling points. No more queuing!

Social Media Benefits

You can use social media to connect with potential customers and get feedback from them. Social media also allows you to share information about your business in a way people can understand, which makes it a great tool for promoting a new product or service.

In addition, social media allows you to listen to what your customers are saying about your business.

It's a great idea to monitor social media platforms so you can respond quickly when someone has an issue or complaint.

You can also use social media as a listening tool to determine what your customers expect from your business. Finally, social media is an effective way to build relationships with people who may not be clients yet but could become one in the future.

Ways to Sell Online

There are many different ways that small businesses can advertise and sell their products online. Consider the options listed below:

• Online advertising: You can create an ad on a website, such as Facebook or Google AdWords, to promote your business. This is also known as "paid" or "paid search" advertising because you pay for each click on the ad.
• Online sales: If you have an e-commerce website, customers can browse your products and make purchases.
• Online auctions: Businesses that sell unique items often use sites like eBay to do so since it is well known for selling collectibles like sports memorabilia and antiques.

Conclusion

The internet is an important tool for small businesses because it allows them to reach customers all over the world. With the growing popularity of social media, many business owners have taken advantage of opportunities to market their products in unique ways. A website is one sure way to set your business up for future success. I trust that this article has helped to inform the online strategy for your business.

Author: Beardem Beardsley

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Legend has it that the beards of prehistoric humans were so thick and rich, that they could cushion blows to the face! Which is why at Big Beard Web Solutions, we fortify your website by putting a beard on it. Get in touch to make your online presence Bigger. Beardlier. Best.