The importance of investing in your own website

So there's this ongoing debate on whether it's better to utilize social media or invest in a website for your business. I say invest because just like anything else you do with our business it's an investment. When you spend ANY money on your business or business education it's a tax write-off. I don't think we educate each other enough on the power of investment. It's a broad subject but let's just talk about web presence.

In one of the groups I'm in the discussion was:

"Thoughts on business who give you Facebook links to there business page but have no website. I would like your thoughts. Example: Your looking for a photographer but they have no website but only there Facebook business page."

Well, some would say, "Some people use what they have available. It's called improvising. It doesn't mean their products or services are not great. At least they took the step to start somewhere. Rather it met anyone's approval or not, they had the courage to step out and try."

And that's great and amazing always start somewhere but as your business grows so should the quality of your platforms of communication. It even opens you up to a new level (and eventually new tax bracket) of clients.

But this was my response:

"I think it's more professional to have a site and it's your's. When you post on social media, technically you don't have full ownership of that work. For example, when Myspace tanked a lot of people lost a couple years of work. If Facebook or IG decides that want to change the platform or charge for something you're stuck like chuck. Having you're own website is like purchasing your own virtual real estate where you can do as you please instead of renting space somewhere else. And the website game has changed. Personally, I think most people are turned off because of look or feel because they don't know how to build/choose a layout that compliments their work/style. No two websites have to be the same. That's why I host on Squarespace and help other build/convert/update their Squarespace sites. Their templates vary depending on what you are trying to showcase and each site is completely different from the next. "

And it's true to an extent. Turns out even though you may own the content, you give any platform (that you do not own) the right you use any of this content how they see fit or to delete your content at any time. So why not own your web content instead of renting? Now that you know seems like a no brainer to invest in you doesn't it? Also... due to the new Facebook and Instagram algorithms your business is not going to get the same engagement without paying for ad space which can quickly add up to $$$. But on your own site you can sell ad space which means more $$$ in your pocket.

So let's get real. As a budding entrepreneur of course you may cut corners until you get your grounding. But once you've got your foundation set, you want to grow! The first ways to secure your online presence is your website. Fortunately for you I'm here to help. I am a Squarespace Circle Member and if you like I can design a site for you on a budget.

The Circle is an exclusive partnership for creative professionals who build websites for clients on Squarespace. I have been equipped with the tools you need to create a Creatively unique website for your business.

I have what it takes: I've been a business consultant for over 4 years and have an 8+ yr history with business. Owning your business website is imperative in this digital age and you can't rely on social media alone. (Ya'll saw what happened to Myspace and what you post on social media is co-owned by that platform but on your own site it only belongs to you!). I can create a website that not only looks beautiful, but meets your strategic needs as well.
I’ll save you time: Thanks to my experience with Squarespace and knowledge of website best practices.
I’ve got a plan: Building a website can be overwhelming and is much easier if there is a well-honed process in place.
My clients love me! See my work or Just ask them.
I’ve done this before: I'm familiar with the quirks, regulations, and best practices of your specific industries. It's my job to do my research and be well informed.

Still on the fence. Well click here to see "Why Squarespace?" and compare it to other platforms.

But I'd love to hear from you! What's your experience been?