Can Having a Website Help My Local Business?
If you're a local business owner that has yet to invest in an online presence for your business, you might be surprised to find how much a website could be helping your bottom line!
This month's case study features Carol Coffin, owner of Perfect Image Salon, who originally thought having a website was a luxury she really didn't need. Afterall, Carol's business was thriving. She had a dedicated client base that kept her very busy. Her advertising budget was low - a simple yellow page ad and the sign outside her salon were providing her with new customers. She found she could easily track her new customers to measure the cost vs. the return for her advertising dollars.
The Challenge:
To Carol, the online world wasn't as concrete. She knew she would need to invest a substantial sum to launch a website and she wasn't sure how that investment would translate into new customers or increased business. Still, in the back of her mind Carol knew she should have a website, so she finally decided to take the plunge. But with very little knowledge of the online world, Carol decided she needed help to make this work.
The Solution:
Carol hired EZSolution to design a site that reflected the relaxed atmosphere of her salon yet showcased a clean, professional image. She left the technical details to their design staff and was encouraged to find EZSolution's staff was friendly and easy to work with.
The Result:
More Clients
Now that the site is complete, Carol marvels at what a difference it makes! Since the website launched in June of this year, she says she's been getting at least 2 or 3 calls a week from potential new clients.
"When they call, I always ask how they found me. Most say they found me on the computer or on the Internet!"
She also notes that when new clients call her, they are more prepared because they already know what she offers after reading through her website. She says that some clients even ask for Carol's Specialty (her all-inclusive hair cut, style and color for one price).
Increased Sales
In addition to new clients, Carol reports that she's getting more "quality clients" too. "The clients I'm getting now already know what to expect and often buy multiple services, so I'm making more money from each sale."
Carol's website is also increasing her sales with her existing customers. Carol says, "Now that they know about the site, they'll often ask me about a product that I feature on my website without my having to suggest they try it."
A Professional Image That Makes a Difference
Carol says "I had one lady call and tell me that she clicked on a number of websites and chose my salon because she loved the professional look of the site! She felt that a salon that would put so much effort into their website, must be good at what they do."
Overall, Carol describes her site as a very "good employee" that attracts quality clients and increases sales with existing customers. "If I had known what a difference having a website would make, I don't think I would've waited so long to get started! The people at EZSolution were easy to work with and did a great job on the site! The process really was easy once I made up my mind to do it!"
If you'd like to read more about Carol Coffin or find out more about her salon, we invite you to visit her website by going to www.perfectimage29.com
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