Why You Need a Web Site

by Joe Bavonese, PhD

Many psychotherapists don't have a web site, and I'm here to tell you that is a huge mistake. In the 21st century, a web site is analagous to the telephone in the 20th century. Would you try to have your practice without a phone? Of course not. But what most people don't realize is that once a web site is created, it costs less to maintain than you probably pay for your office phone service.

All small businesses need a web site for the following reasons:

1. a web site tells your clients that you are credible in the current time and not an out-of-touch dinosaur from another age.

2. more people under 40 search for service businesses on the Internet than any other way. This will only increase as this cohort ages and broadband access becomes more standard. A recent study found that over 80% of adults now first look for professional services online.

3. a well-designed web site can serve as an interactive brochure, explaining your philosophy, outlining your services and telling clients of the benefits of what you offer. I have many clients who call and say, "I've seen your web site, and I'm calling to make an appointment." No questions asked.

4. a web site can be placed on other marketing venues to give potential clients a way to contact you in the future.

5. a web site can serve as a 24-hour point of contact for current and future clients to continue to learn about you and what you offer.

6. studies have shown that Internet users and searchers have an above-average income and educational level as compared to non-Internet users.

7. web sites can easily collect email addresses, which you can promote your services to FOR FREE. (How's that compared to other forms of advertising?)

What is the evidence that small business is wise to make greater use of web sites in promoting their businesses? Well the trend is clear: online search has surpassed the Yellow Pages as the primary method used by Americans for researching and finding goods and services:

90% of Americans online are researching products & services.

81% of those say that they made a choice based on the information they obtained from websites.

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