The other day I was trying to locate some information about a business online, and I was shocked to realize that they didn’t even have a website.  Granted, it was "just" a store, rather than an Internet-based business, but still — I am always surprised when a business hasn’t discovered the marketing power of the Internet.

Having a business website empowers your business like you wouldn’t believe.  For instance, take this golf academy, which has been extraordinarily proactive about promoting their schools online.  They have built a reputation for their golf schools that attracts not only those wanting pro golf careers, but also those wanting other, more attainable careers in the industry.

Having an online presence enables you to do all of these things:

1. Make basic information about your business, such as hours and location, readily available.
2. Reach your target audience.
3. Work on "branding."
4. Mold perceptions about your business and the industry.

There are many other things you can do with an online presence, but these are some of the most important, and they demonstrate how crucial a strong online presense really is!