Now, I realize that it behooves me and my colleagues at Sparkhouse to make the argument that every business needs a website. Nevertheless, we genuinely believe that if you want to grow your business then you need an online presence.

I concede that there maybe a few exceptions to this rule: the very part time dog walker who get clients through word of mouth, the convenience store where people find you because they need a giant soft drink now and happen to be passing by, or you are so overrun with customers that adding any more would cause you to crash and burn. While these are valid reasons for the 'less is more' marketing plan, if you run a business and want more revenue then you should have a website.

You're at a party, someone asks what you do for a living, you tell her you have your own business selling widgets or whatnots and hand them your business card. A few days later that person can't find your card because it is in the pocket of the pants that are now in the spin cycle of the washing machine. But, she remembers your business' name, or at least part of it, and does a Google search. Up pops your site and a connection is made.

A website adds legitimacy to your business no matter what the size. You wouldn't tell a customer that you don't have a phone number and, with almost 75% of the U.S. population using the internet, not having a site is almost as absurd. Even if your office is really your dining room table and your employees consist of your mother-in-law and your next door neighbor's kid, your site conveys that you are seriously doing business. Even a one page 'billboard' site will give your potential customer an opportunity to reach you and learn more about what you have to offer.

While brochures and sell sheets are a valuable part of a business' marketing efforts, a website allows you the flexibility to easily update or change your message without having to do a reprint. Adding a special offer, changing your hours for the holiday season, or adding new product or services is done quickly and cost effectively.

As advertising veterans, we at Sparkhouse want to help you brand your business. What you communicate visually with your marketing collateral is as important as what you say verbally. Consistency in the look and with the message of your website, brochures and sell sheets helps you build strong brand equity for your business. We can work with your existing marketing pieces to create a complimentary website. Don't have any marketing pieces? Then here is an important opportunity to begin crafting a brand that will speak your message clearly to your customers while differentiating you from your competitors. We can help you create the pieces in your marketing repertoire.

A small business doesn't mean small ideas. A website allows the business owner to play on the same field as the big boys. The advantages are many; the flexibility to easily change or update information, it generates confidence in that your customer feels that you are a legitimate vendor and it expands your operating hours since it is "open" 24/7. Your website is your virtual storefront. Let us help you make it happen.