"I think there is a world market for maybe five computers." — Thomas Watson, chairman of IBM, 1943.

How things have changed. I will not bore you with statistics on how many users are now online. Just think how many of your friends use a computer connected to the Internet at home or at work, and how many of them do things online, such as look for information on anything from a recipe for dinner to how to invest their savings.

Here are at least 10 compelling reasons for creating a web presence. You may not have all these reasons or you may have other reasons, not noted here. However, even if one of these apply, it's time for you to have your own home on the world wide web.

Reason #1:

Extend your identity to the internet to strengthen your existing customer relationships or attract new customers. Broadcast to the wide audience of internet users.

Reason #2:

You can be available 7/24. Give your customers an opportunity to contact you via e-mail the minute they had that questions or request, which could be long forgotten by the time you open your doors at 9 am.

Reason #3:

Post your Frequently Asked Questions to save you and your customers time and unnecessary phone calls.

Reason #4:

Educate your customers about your product or service. Show them how to use it better, which will probably make them use it more. I don't need to tell you, it will make them buy it more.

Reason #5:

Get an edge over your competitor or catch up with the ones who already have a website. Yes, not all small and even medium size businesses are out there yet. There is time for you to get that "edge". But things are moving fast and if you wait longer, there will only be the "catching up" left to do. And... what if your customer read about your product from your competitor's website because you didn't have your own? Guess whos customer this may be now?

Reason #6:

Colloborate with other businesses and professionals providing the same or different type of product or service. Strategically link to each other on the web whenever their service could enhance yours or vice a versa. As a result, both of you will have more satisfied customers and more profit.

Reason #7:

Sell your products online. This option is not for everyone, but consider it if your location is remote and your product is easy to ship.

Reason #8:

Advertise your products on your own website any time you want as long as you want without having to pay any extra fees. Post online coupons for customer to print and redeem at your store.

Reason #9:

Join virtual business directories or link to your site from yellow pages online.

Reason #10:

Have an online poll or post a survey, create a mailing list. One more way for you to interact and learn more about your customer.

Reason #11:

Yes, I know I said there were only 10 reasons. But... isn't there always just one more reason? Last but not least... The Pride of Ownership. Be proud of your website, your important business asset. This professional, beautiful, functional website is all yours. It tells the world you are forward thinking and market aware.