Does anyone feel it's possible to operate a business successfully without a website? Why or why not?

As we hurtle through yet another year, there’s still a great divide between two kinds of small business owners: Those who have business websites ( Why), and those who don’t (Why Not).

I for one do not have one. Up to now I haven’t needed one; but in the last year I have redefined my business and I am in the process of developing and completing my website. As I moved from just being a consultant who specializes in the development of supplier diversity programs, I felt pretty specialized as a consultant, especially only marketing to corporations, organizations and municipalities.

Now my focus has broadened and I now have other business features added to my capability statement that dictates the need to have a website. Truly speaking, I need to have launched a site several years ago.

Fortunately, small businesses are realizing the importance of a business website. In my research I found, nearly two-thirds have a business website, and 81% of those say their sites are mobile-friendly.

On the other side of the divide are the more than one-third (36%) of small business owners who still don’t have a website. How is this still possible? If your small business doesn’t have a website, here are some of the many ways you’re missing out.

• Your email marketing is less effective than it could be.
• You’ll get less traction in search results.
• You look less than legitimate.
• You’re at the mercy of social networks.

Beyond all these factors, one reason to create a business website is that there’s no longer an excuse not to.

So what’s holding the 36% of small businesses that don’t have websites back? Among small businesses without a website, more than half plan to build one this year. It’s more affordable and easier than ever before to do so. As a bonus, many of these services make it easier to market your website by helping you with search engine optimization, local search directories and more once your website is up and running.

Your website doesn’t have to be complicated. If you are just starting out with a site, all you need is a couple of pages with your basic information (hours, address, phone number), perhaps a Contact us page, and links to your business elsewhere online (social media, reviews, etc.) is probably all you need.

Eddie Hill Consulting Group, LLC