Why Do I Need A Web Site?
"If you don't have a web site, you may as well not exist"
This recently overheard quote referred to bridal stores, but it applies equally well to veterinary clinics: When clients have a choice of clinics to take their pet to, many will go to each clinic's web site to get more information. If your clinic does not have a web site, a potential client may immediately dismiss your clinic. It may not be fair, but it's an easy way for them to narrow down their search.
Do I Need A Web Site?
With Internet usage still increasing rapidly in all demographics, a web site can be a wise investment to target your potential clients.
Reasons For Having a Web Site
Here is a brief list of reasons for having a web site:
- Assures clients your clinic is up to date: many clients feel that the lack of a web presence translates into a lack of sophistication within the clinic itself
- Helps clients find your clinic in the "real world": address, phone number, hours, etc.
- Convinces clients that you offer the services they need for their pets
- Establishes your expertise: offers clients a jumping off point to credible veterinary information (for example, via a "Links" page)
- Decreases the load on support staff: answers frequently asked questions, etc.
- Targets those clients who rely largely on the Internet to find their products and services
- Allows you to get the latest information to your clients quickly and easily: for example, newsletters, urgent bulletins, etc.
Does Every Clinic Need A Web Site?
There are a few instances where a web site may not be a priority or even necessary.
If your clinic has as many clients as you and your staff can handle and you are not interested in growing your clientele, you may not need a web site. Alternately, if word-of-mouth recommendations drives the majority of your new clients, and these clients can get adequate information about the clinic from these recommendations, you may not need to worry about a web site just yet.
It's Worth Considering A Web Site
If the above doesn't describe your situation (and even if it does), you may want to seriously consider a web site. As you can see from the list above, even when the majority of your business is from local clientele, there are still several important reasons to have a web site.
If you want more clients, you should be online.
A Great Investment
So in the end, unless you have more clients than you could ever wish for, a web site can be a great investment for your business.
