Your business needs a website. And here's why.

If Instagram disappeared tomorrow, would your clients or customers still know how to find you?

If your entire business lives on social media—especially a platform you don’t own—that’s a risky move. Because while Instagram might be great for visibility, it shouldn’t be your only marketing plan.

In this post, I’m breaking down exactly why every small business owner (yes, even you) needs a website, what that site should include, and how to keep it simple, stress-free, and effective.

Social Media Is a Tool—Not a Home Base

Sure, social platforms like Instagram are perfect for visual businesses—hairstylists, photographers, interior designers, you name it. They act like a live portfolio. But here’s the kicker: you don’t own Instagram. Or its ever-changing algorithm.

One day it’s all about Reels. The next, we’re back to carousels. Trying to keep up is like chasing a toddler full of candy through a mall.

Your website, on the other hand? It’s your calm, cool, collected cousin who always has their life together.

Credibility Starts With a Click

Let’s talk trust. If someone hears about your business and heads to your Instagram, cool. But chances are, they’re also going to Google you.

And if they can’t find a legit website? That sends up a red flag.

A basic, clean, informative website gives your business instant credibility. It doesn’t have to be fancy. It just needs to be clear.

Think of it like this: if your Instagram is the casual coffee date, your website is the first impression that makes people want to book the full dinner.

You Own It. You Control It. You Can Update It.

Unlike social media, your website is yours. You bought the domain, you control the content, and you don’t have to panic when an app goes down or changes its rules (again).

Plus, your website is open 24/7. Whether you’re sleeping, on vacation, or taking a break from social, your services are still visible—and bookable.

If you sell products, offer appointments, or want clients to contact you, your website works while you rest. It's your digital storefront that never closes.

What Your Website Actually Needs

Let me guess: you’ve been thinking about a website, but it feels overwhelming. Maybe you’ve got 97 sticky notes with copy ideas or a jumbled draft hiding in your Notes app.

Take a deep breath. You don’t need to launch a massive five-page masterpiece.

Here’s what you really need to get started:

• Homepage: Make it very clear what you do and how you help. If someone lands here, they should know within five seconds whether they’re in the right place.

• About Page: Talk about yourself—but through the lens of why your experience matters to your audience. This is where trust starts.

• Services or Shop Page: List what you offer and how people can buy or book.

• Contact Page: Either a simple form or a way to reach you directly.

• Optional but Recommended: Email Signup Section. Start growing your email list now (because again, we don’t own Instagram).

Even if you DIY it—and I’ve done that more than once—it’s a starting point. You can always upgrade later. Your website will grow as your business grows. That’s the beauty of owning it.

It Doesn’t Have to Be Fancy—It Just Has to Be Clear

You don’t need bells and whistles. You need clarity.

And if you tend to over-explain or add too much copy (hi, guilty), ask someone in your target audience to review your site. Not your partner. Not your best friend. Someone who would actually buy what you’re offering.

Ready to Build (or Fix) Your Website?

If you’ve been avoiding building your site because it feels overwhelming, expensive, or just one more thing on your list—I get it. But you deserve to have a home base that reflects your business and makes it easier for people to find and trust you.

In my Content Essentials Toolkit, I walk you through the exact pages your website needs—step by step. No fluff. No jargon. Just real-world guidance that helps you get it done without pulling your hair out.

Want to chat more about websites and content? Join my free Facebook group at lindsaysmithcreative.ca/magic. We talk shop, share freebies, and I’m there every week answering questions and cheering you on.

Final thought:

You should feel proud to share your website link. Whether it’s on a business card or shouted across a room at a networking event, your site should back you up and do the talking when you’re not around.

And it can. It just starts with a simple page—and the decision to stop hiding behind Instagram.