Have you heard comments like this, or even thought them yourself?
They sound great, and are completely sound rationing for choosing to invest your time/money into a social media page/group rather than a standalone website. Or are they?
You’re showing up on Facebook, posting stories on Instagram, maybe even dabbling in LinkedIn or Tiktok. Your customers can message you, see your latest work, and leave glowing reviews. So, you might be wondering… why bother with a website?
We hear this question a lot – and it’s a fair one. Social media feels immediate, easy, and free. But relying only on platforms like Facebook or Instagram is a bit like running a business from someone else’s shopfront. Let’s unpack why having your own website is not just helpful – it’s essential.
You Don’t Own Social Media – and That’s Risky
Social media is “rented land.” As convenient as it feels, your account lives under someone else’s roof. That means you’re at the mercy of:
Algorithm changes (one day you’re reaching hundreds, the next… crickets)
Account suspensions or hacks (we’ve seen it happen – accounts gone overnight)
Limited visibility unless you pay to boost posts
Design restrictions that stop you from truly standing out
- Value conflicts We know many individuals that will not use certain platforms for one reason or another. If you’re focussing on Instagram, but half your target audience are on Facebook… you’re missing out.
On the flip side, your website is 100% yours. You control the message, layout, branding, and user journey. You can say what you want, how you want, and design an experience that feels uniquely you
A Website Builds Instant Credibility
People expect legitimate businesses to have a website. It’s often the first place they go to check you out. Without one, potential clients may assume you’re not serious, not established, or not operating anymore.
A website builds trust by showing:
Who you are and what you do
Testimonials and case studies
Clear pricing, FAQs, and contact details
Your unique approach or story
Imagine two businesses: one with just a Facebook page, the other with a professional website that’s easy to navigate, filled with useful info, and shows off recent work. Who would you trust more?
It Works 24/7 (Even When You Don’t)
Your website is like your best employee – never sleeps, never takes holidays, and always represents your business with clarity.
It can:
Answer common questions (freeing up your time)
Show off your work or portfolio
Take bookings or enquiries while you’re offline
Funnel visitors into your sales process or mailing list
You don’t have to constantly post or update for your website to keep working for you – unlike social media, where content disappears in a flash and needs constant feeding.
It’s Easier for People to Find You on Google
Google is still the #1 place people search when they’re ready to buy or book. If you don’t have a website, you’re missing out on valuable organic traffic – people actively looking for what you offer.
A well-built website with good SEO (search engine optimisation) helps your business show up when someone searches terms like:
“Florist in Geraldton”
“Mobile hairdresser near me”
“Insurance broker for tradies WA”
You don’t need to be techy or write blogs every week – even a simple site with clear, relevant content can make a big difference in how people find and choose you.
You Can Tell Your Story, Your Way
Social media posts are fleeting – and often dictated by trends or character limits. Your website gives you space to go deeper.
You can:
Share your story – why you started, what you stand for
Outline your services in detail
Provide downloadable resources or lead magnets, and for author or other creative websites, include bonus content or extras to keep your audience thrumming.
Create helpful blog content that positions you as the expert
Think of it like your own online HQ – a hub where all your marketing leads back to.
What If I Already Get Clients from Social Media?
That’s fantastic – social media is great for visibility, connection, and engagement. But the goal should be to lead people to your website, where they can:
Get all the information they need
Take the next step (book, enquire, buy)
Join your email list or contact you directly
It’s the difference between being “found” and being “chosen.”
It Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated
Worried it’s too hard, too expensive, or too techy? You’re not alone – but it doesn’t have to be that way. A clean, simple website (built with something user-friendly like WordPress and Elementor – which I use!) can be affordable, flexible, and completely tailored to you.
And the best part? You only need to build it once – then you can update it as your business grows.
Ready to Build Your Online Home?
Social media might be where the conversation starts. But your website is where trust is built, decisions are made, and business happens.
If you’ve been putting it off, thinking “I’m doing fine with just Facebook,” consider this your sign. Let’s future-proof your business and give it a digital space it truly deserves.
Curious about what’s possible? Get in touch – I’d love to show you what your online home could look like.
