Many in the agricultural world aren’t yet fully convinced that their farm, ranch or other agro related business can benefit from having a professional presence on the internet, or they may not believe it’s affordable and easily maintained. Below are some reasons why having an effective online presence is vital to any agricultural business.
The Internet has changed the way we buy and sell products and services and the way we obtain information, the way we communicate, even the way we are getting entertained. The Internet and the number of people connecting are growing at a phenomenal rate. More and more people are getting on the Internet every day. Over 2 billion people use the internet daily and over 70 million of them are Nigerians.
With the emergence of technology, Companies and other non-governmental organizations are now taking their campaigns, awareness, publicity efforts, products and services online if not for professionalism, but for the sake of communicating with potential customers and reaching a wider audience.
Research shows that 90% of internet users check up on various business and organization websites/Web app to buy goods & services or learn more about that Organization. This is because your website/web app is another arm of your organization that sells a product and conveys information and data. For example, an average internet user searching for information would run a search on the internet using various keywords and terms related to finding what they are searching, you are at a greater chance of winning over new members of the public if he/she can find your website/web app online.
It’s all about credibility. More and more people are using the internet every day to search for the products, services and information they need. The businesses and organizations that can provide that to them quickly and easily with a savvy website will automatically stand out and be remembered. If your business isn’t on the internet, how serious of a business are you? Are you investing in your business and yourself to make that great first impression?
You can provide valuable Ag education to the consumer. We all know that consumers are being inundated with false information about agriculture and the farmers and ranchers that produce their food. A website gives you an incredible opportunity to help inform them about what farming and ranching is really like, and provide them with first-hand stories telling them how much you care about what you do and the food you’re producing.
Everyone needs new clientele. These days, it’s a rare thing to find someone that isn’t online looking for the products and services they need every day.
A website saves you time and improves customer service. Having a website that provides routine information about your business, such as FAQs (frequently asked questions), can be invaluable to those that are looking for you. Not only can you spend the time that you might be personally giving out that information doing other important things, but it will save your potential customers time as well. This is a customer service plus! Additionally, you can share some of your expertise with your website visitors, establishing that you are an expert in your field, and your advice and help will go a long way towards making you more memorable.
Your competitors have one! Yes, it’s true. Chances are your direct competitors are online, taking YOUR customers. Stand out and help them find you first!
It’s not as expensive or as difficult as you might think. Websites are affordable and easy to maintain and update. Using a content management system such as WordPress is a great solution. It’s web based, simple enough to use for the average computer user, has unlimited functionality and Google loves it. Do yourself a favor and find a professional to help you get it off the ground and train you.
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