The truth about websites, Facebook, Instagram, and where to invest your marketing budget
"I already have a Facebook page with 500 followers. Do I really need a website?"
This is one of the most common questions we hear from small business owners. With Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and other social platforms offering free business pages, it's tempting to skip the website altogether.
But here's the uncomfortable truth: relying solely on social media is a risky business strategy. Let's explore why.
You Don't Own It
Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok could delete your account, change their algorithms, or even shut down. Your entire online presence could vanish overnight.
Limited Google Visibility
Social media pages don't rank well on Google. When people search for your services, they won't find you.
Algorithm Control
Only 5-10% of your followers actually see your posts. Social platforms control who sees your content, not you.
Less Professional
A Facebook page doesn't convey the same credibility as a professional website. Many customers see it as a red flag.
Distractions Everywhere
When customers visit your social media, they're bombarded with ads, notifications, and competitors. On your website, you have their full attention.
A website is your digital home base—the one place online that you fully control. Here's why it's essential:
97% of consumers use Google to find local businesses. Your website can rank for keywords and show up when customers are actively searching for your services.
Your website belongs to you. No platform can delete it, change the rules, or limit who sees it. You're in complete control.
84% of consumers think a business with a website is more credible than one with only social media. A website says "we're a real, established business."
On your website, there are no competing ads, no algorithm changes, no distractions. Visitors focus 100% on your business and your message.
Websites convert visitors into customers at 2-3x higher rates than social media because they're designed specifically for conversions.
Your website works around the clock, capturing leads and providing information even when you're asleep or on holiday.
Let's be clear: social media is still valuable. But it serves a different purpose than your website.
Building Relationships & Community
Engaging with customers, answering questions, sharing behind-the-scenes content
Brand Awareness
Reaching new audiences through shares, tags, and viral content
Social Proof
Showcasing customer reviews, testimonials, and project photos
Driving Traffic to Your Website
Using social posts to send engaged followers to your website for conversions
Being Your Primary Online Presence
Too risky to rely on a platform you don't control
Ranking on Google
Social pages rarely appear in search results for services
Detailed Information
Social posts are too short for comprehensive service details, pricing, FAQs
Professional Credibility
Serious businesses have websites; social-only feels amateur
The best approach isn't website OR social media—it's website AND social media. Here's how they work together:
Your Website is Your Home Base
This is where you capture leads, showcase services, provide detailed information, and convert visitors into customers.
Social Media Drives Traffic
Use Facebook, Instagram, and other platforms to engage your audience and direct them to your website.
SEO Brings in Google Traffic
Your website ranks on Google for keywords, bringing in high-intent customers who are actively searching.
Everything Points to Your Website
Your Google My Business listing, email signature, business cards, and ads all link to your website.
Think of it this way:
You need both. But your website should always be the foundation of your online presence, with social media supporting it.
Stop relying on social media alone. Get a website that works 24/7 to bring you customers.