Since I’ve been working with my husband’s web development company for the past two years, I’ve met with many clients as they develop marketing plans and consider website improvements. Interestingly enough, it seems that many companies have it backwards… they put more emphasis on the tangible print or sales presentations and less emphasis on their website.
In fact, many company leaders never even look at their own websites. Their awareness is seems to be more focused on what their staff puts in front of them or what their customers tell them. What they’re missing with these feedback loops is the hundreds (and maybe thousands) of people visiting their website. A company’s website is the most accessible way that a customer, potential customer, news reporter or random person can find that company.
As a result, having an outdated website is like making a sales presentation in your underwear.
It makes you look bad. Just like if you were standing in a meeting in your underwear, most people would laugh, look away, or tell you to take a hike. However, few would hire your company, even if you told them that you were too busy selling products to put on pants that day.
The same is true with websites. Your website is what gives you credibility… most people won’t see that new wizbang brochure or catalog, but they’ll likely go to your website to find your phone number, location, and browse to see what your company is about. It’s the world’s biggest tradeshow… and you already have a booth, whether you like it or not.
