Short answer: In 2025, not having a website is like not listing your business in the phone book was in the 1990s. Here's how to decide if you really need one.
1. Ask Yourself These 5 Questions
Do customers Google your business?
(Over 80% research online before buying)
Are you relying only on social media?
(Platforms can disappear or change rules overnight)
Could you sell products/services 24/7?
(Websites never sleep)
Do competitors have websites?
(Not having one makes you look less professional)
Do you want to grow beyond local?
(Websites give you national/global reach)
2. When You Might NOT Need a Full Website
🚗 Local Service Businesses
Example: Neighborhood lawn care
Alternative: Optimized Google Business Profile + Facebook page
🎪 Temporary Ventures
Example: Holiday pop-up shop
Alternative: Instagram page with Linktree
🤝 Referral-Based Work
Example: High-end B2B consultant
Alternative: LinkedIn profile + PDF brochure
3. The Undeniable Benefits of Having a Website
Credibility Boost
75% of consumers judge credibility based on web design
Sales Channel
Process orders even when you're asleep
Marketing Hub
Central place for promotions, testimonials, FAQs
Data Control
Own your customer data (unlike social media)
By The Numbers
- 71% of small businesses have websites (2025 Stat)
- 3× more likely to attract new customers with a site
- 50% of consumers won't consider a business without one
4. What Type of Website Do You Need?
🛑 Basic Brochure Site
Cost: $0-$500
Best for: Showing you exist with contact info
Tools: Wix, Squarespace, Carrd
🛒 E-Commerce Store
Cost: $500-$5,000+
Best for: Selling products online
Tools: Shopify, WooCommerce
📝 Content Portal
Cost: $1,000-$10,000+
Best for: Blogs, education, lead gen
Tools: WordPress, Webflow
💡 Smart Starter Strategy
- Start with a simple 1-page site ($0-100)
- Add basic info: What you do, contact details, photos
- Expand as needed (testimonials, booking, etc.)
"Better a basic site now than a perfect site never."
⚠️ Watch Out For...
- Free website traps: Some hosts show ads on your "free" site
- DIY overload: Don't waste 100 hours to save $500
- Domain names: Get yourbusiness.com (not yourbusiness.wix.com)
5. How to Get Started Today
Secure your domain name (GoDaddy, Namecheap)
Choose a website builder (Our top pick: Squarespace for simplicity)
Add essential pages: Home, About, Contact
Launch and share on your social profiles