Most, if not all businesses, have a website. Many of them have one simply because it’s the norm. However, they fail to realize that a website, when done correctly, is an essential tool that can make or break a business. And it doesn’t matter what kind of company you have or what industry you are in. This is true even for manufacturing and industrial businesses. Not convinced? Below are several reasons why you need to invest in a compelling website for your manufacturing company.
Demonstrate Your Products and Services
Many manufacturing companies treat their website like traditional sales brochures. They use it to show off their products and services. But that’s not all it can do. Instead of just showing pictures and writing paragraphs to describe what the company is offering, businesses can utilize their website to post videos of tutorials and demonstrations.
Convenience & Ease of Information
These days, it’s normal for customers to visit a company’s website before making a purchase. It’s not just because they want to learn more about the product. Though that’s one reason, it’s also about checking the company itself and its reputation (more about this later). But it’s also about getting information on prices, packages, promos, shipping, delivery, etc. Based on a study by Verisign in 2015, 92% prefer to get information from a business’ website instead of their social media page.
Aside from an FAQ, having a website also enables customers to contact you if they have questions through a contact form or live chat. That’s not all. Customers can also use the website to easily and conveniently place their orders. This makes the buying experience more seamless, boosting customer loyalty (more on this later). An example of this is an online 3D printing service. Typically, such a website provides an FAQ on 3D printing methods and materials and offers a simple way to submit an order—no need for a physical visit to the office or store. No need to call to get questions answered or an order placed. Everything can be done through the website.
Establish Credibility
A website can add your company’s legitimacy as a business. According to the same Verisign survey, 93% of their respondents use the internet for research before purchasing. Moreover, 77% believe that a website makes a business appear more credible.
Companies can use their website to show testimonials from previous and current clients or customers. It can also feature case studies of past projects, which promote trust and provide visitors with a clearer idea of what you can deliver. Moreover, it gives people a way to interact with your company.
Create Brand Awareness
Your website is one of the best platforms for building your brand and helping people understand who your company is, what you represent, and what you stand for. It is where you can exhibit your brand’s logo, colors, and message. As a result, your brand helps you stand out from your competitors and can decide whether or not a customer makes a purchase.
Reach More Customers
While your manufacturing business may already have successfully converted people and companies into paying customers through traditional marketing methods, it probably was an expensive endeavor. Plus, your reach would be limited. However, with a website, you can get even more people’s attention, including those outside your region.
In 2021, more than half of the world’s population will be online. Without a website, you will be invisible to a lot of these people. With a website, they will find you when they search for your product and services on Google. As a bonus, the cost wouldn’t be as expensive as print ads and direct mail.
Enhanced Marketing
What does this mean? We already mentioned that you could use your website to get the attention of new customers. You can do that in different ways, such as content marketing with SEO and by linking your social media accounts to your website.
Even better, you can use your website to help you track customer behavior, what they’re looking for, and where they are located. All of that information can be used to create more focused content and marketing campaigns. That data can also help you improve the customer experience.
Updates And Announcements
Having a website is not just good for getting new customers. It also means keeping the old ones. A website allows you to be “present” and “available” to your customers 24/7. Accessibility is essential, especially in this day and age. If customers need information from you, they don’t have to wait for regular business hours before calling your office. They can find answers to common issues on your website. If you employ chatbots on your site, these can help solve fundamental problems quickly, improve customer satisfaction, and ensure customer retention.
Besides customer issues, your website can provide people with up-to-date information regarding changes in your policies, products, and services. In addition, they can be apprised of additional offerings such as new items you’re now manufacturing or new materials available. Not only does this give you a chance to keep your customers informed of what’s happening with your company, but it also helps increase your chances of getting them to buy from you.
Conclusion
As you can see, there’s absolutely no reason why your manufacturing company should not have a website. And there’s every reason to get one built today. It’s one of the best investments you’ll ever make for your business.
Why A Good Website is Important for Manufacturing and Industrial Businesses
Fractional CMO Top Selling Online Products Digital Media Services