Why all businesses need a website in 2009

With every passing year, small- and medium-sized businesses that don't have a Web site are losing their competitive edge. And since the Web is quickly becoming a beacon of light during a dark and dismal economic crunch, there's a strong possibility that a web presence could save a company. Here are a few reasons why every business needs a feature-rich, credible Web presence in the 2009:

• You'll expose your business to markets you never thought possible
  A Web site gives small businesses the opportunity to compete with even the largest enterprises. This means a business owner can reach its target audience anywhere-across the street or across the continent!
  
• The competition already has a Web site
  Although a surprising percentage of small- to medium-sized businesses still don't have a site, plenty of them do. That means the competition is already displaying its online catalog, making appointments, selling products and reaping the benefits of a Web presence.
  
• A Web site establishes your credibility
  Research has repeatedly shown that consumers don't instill much trust in a business that doesn't have a Web site. And if they don't trust the source, they won't give it their money--especially as they become more budget conscious.
  
• You'll decrease advertising expenses while getting MORE exposure for your business
  A Web site beats out all the other methods of business promotion--even direct-mail campaigns! If your hosting provider includes site promotion tools, you can ensure that your business stays in the limelight on the most popular search engines.