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There is no need for entrepreneurs to hesitate about bringing their business online since the internet is an integral part of people’s everyday routines, including their customers and potential consumers.
A 2022 survey conducted by Cetic.br revealed that 80% of households in Brazil have access to the internet, enabling millions of users to engage in various online activities using different devices.
If you still question the significance of investing in your business’s online presence, check out our list of 7 reasons to get your company online immediately!
Interact with the customers currently on your website.
The number of internet users in Brazil has been rapidly increasing over the years. In 2008, only 39% of Brazilians aged 10 and above had used the internet, but by 2022, this figure had reached 86%, according to research by Cetic.br.
The increase in mobile phones with internet access and other portable devices like notebooks and tablets has contributed to this growth. Access to the web is now possible from anywhere, allowing people to stay connected and informed at all times.
Having a functional website on mobile devices is crucial because the majority of Brazilian users access the internet primarily through mobile phones, with over half relying solely on mobile for browsing.
To tap into the expanding online audience, besides being active on social media, it’s essential to have a mobile-friendly website that adjusts its pages and content for user screens. This enhances visitor experience and boosts the site’s ranking in search engine results, according to Google.
Most of your customers are already online engaging with news, sharing experiences, and connecting with others and businesses. Don’t exclude your company from this online presence.
Position your company online, even if it is already present there.
The popular word-of-mouth communication is shifting to online platforms, enabling users to share their experiences with a wider audience instantly. This emphasizes the importance of companies being active online to engage with their customers effectively.
Evaluation and complaint platforms are increasingly influential online, shaping brands’ reputations. For instance, Reclame Here attracts millions of monthly visitors seeking information on companies, while Google is a go-to source for researching locations, hotels, and restaurants. Social media platforms such as Instagram and Twitter now serve as important channels for customer interactions.
There are numerous chances for companies to advertise on the internet and improve their connections with customers, despite the initial appearance of it being a threat. Establishing a strong online presence is essential in today’s business environment.
Ensure that your business is accessible around the clock.
Putting your business online can increase its visibility and accessibility, making it easier for customers to find you and make reservations or appointments online. Have you considered this option?
When building a website for a restaurant, you can showcase images of the setting, menu, contact details, and other information. This allows potential customers to explore the restaurant at any time, even when it’s closed, and place orders online, supplementing services like iFood.
It is also beneficial to use additional tools that enhance online presence, such as social media platforms and Google My Business, which are essential and free for many businesses. These tools work together to provide a comprehensive online visibility.
Owning a local business and looking to grow can benefit from e-commerce, providing a 24-hour online presence to sell not only products but also services like classes and courses. Setting up a virtual store involves careful planning and effort, but starting small with existing e-commerce platforms is feasible.
Enter new markets.
In the past, businesses were limited to serving local clients, but the internet has made geographical boundaries almost nonexistent. This has enabled companies to reach customers globally, as seen with the popularity of Chinese product websites in Brazil.
The internet not only intensified competition but also allowed businesses to broaden their reach into new markets, providing customers with increased convenience through online platforms like websites, social networks, and marketplaces, making it easier to access products and services and enabling virtual delivery or services.
If the physical store must close, having an online store ensures the business can still operate. Establishing an online presence also helps reach nearby customers who may not be aware of the business.
To explore further in the digital realm, I suggest reading this article featuring recommendations for online tools for everyday business use.
Track and manage your business by monitoring your relationship with customers.
The internet provides an affordable and convenient way for businesses to connect with customers who already use it regularly, both for work and leisure. Being present and engaging with customers online can help businesses thrive, as online platforms have led to the growth of businesses both online and offline.
Brazil ranks third globally in social media usage, following India and Indonesia, based on a recent Comscore study. Popular platforms among Brazilian users include Youtube, Facebook, and Instagram. With over 130 million internet users, each spends an average of 46 hours per month on social networks.
Every business must engage with its consumers, whether through a corporate blog, email marketing, or an Instagram profile. The online environment offers a cost-effective and accessible way to begin building this relationship.
The company can engage with its audience more effectively through its website and social media platforms without requiring a significant investment. Sharing informative content, announcing news, and responding to followers’ questions can yield positive outcomes with consistent effort and dedication.
Expand your business online.
The internet provides a way to promote products or businesses efficiently and affordably through platforms like Google Ads and Facebook/Instagram Ads. These tools enable advertisers to target specific audiences within a set budget.
These tools are designed to serve advertisers of all sizes, and while expertise isn’t required to use them, it can be beneficial to seek professional assistance for optimizing campaign performance, especially with larger investments.
Another way to share information is through a company blog. This method is cost-effective but time-consuming. A blog allows you to provide valuable content to the audience, share brand updates, and post product tutorials. While it demands commitment, it can yield positive outcomes over time. Depending on your availability and expertise, you can create a blog independently or consider hiring a professional through platforms like Fiverr. For more in-depth guidance, explore our resources on creating a free blog or setting up a WordPress site.
The subject is extensive, but it is crucial to grasp that there are multiple methods to promote a company online, with investment typically being lower than in conventional media like TV, radio, newspapers, and magazines. The internet has broadened opportunities, enabling businesses of all scales to market their brand.
It has never been more convenient (and affordable) to access the internet.
Currently, there are numerous affordable tool options available for putting a company online, unlike in the past when a significant investment was required. The key is to prioritize investing the time and resources you have.
Establishing your business’s online visibility through social media is an important initial move for beginners. Creating a website is typically the first step towards brand development, even before setting up a social media profile. A professionally designed website enhances the company’s credibility and professionalism.
Creating a website with minimal investment can be achieved using website builders. WordPress with optimized hosting is recommended for those seeking a flexible and scalable solution. Alternatively, Google Sites or Blogger can be used for free if you are unable to invest in a paid tool.
All the paid options mentioned cost less than R$ 20 per month, while a custom domain, which is not included in the free tools, ranges from R$ 40 to R$ 50 annually. If you hire a freelancer or agency to create the site, you need to budget for this extra expense. For further details, check out our article on website costs.
Check out our article outlining the necessary steps to establish a website for your company after understanding the significance of having an online presence. Feel free to reach out with any inquiries or feedback, and we will be happy to assist you! 😉
Publication date: June 26, 2023
Tags: Equipment
