Why Your Small Business Needs a Website (and Why Social Media Isn’t Enough)

You’ve spent years growing your Instagram followers. Or maybe you’ve been faithfully posting on your Facebook Page, hoping to reach more people in your community.

But here’s the hard truth: if you’re building your audience only on social media, you’re building on borrowed land.

Let’s talk about why your website matters more than ever — and how it works hand-in-hand with your email list and social media.

Why isn’t social media enough for small businesses?

Don’t get me wrong — I love social media. It’s a fantastic tool for connecting with customers and showing off your business’s personality. But at the end of the day, it’s still not yours.

And here’s something most small business owners don’t realize: social platforms don’t want people leaving their apps.

Driving traffic to your website is harder than ever

The truth is, no matter how much effort you put into growing your social following, you don’t own that audience — the platform does. And over the past few years, the game has changed.

• Algorithm changes can crush your reach. You’ve seen it: one month, your posts are getting great engagement, and the next month, crickets.

• Pay-to-play is the new normal. Both Facebook and Instagram are pushing businesses toward ads instead of organic reach.

• You don’t own your audience. If Facebook shut down tomorrow, how would you reach your customers? Your followers belong to the platform, not you.

• Content has a short shelf life. An Instagram Reel might get attention for 24 hours, then it’s gone. A Facebook post sinks within a few days.

If you rely on social media alone, you’re trying to build your business in someone else’s backyard — and they’re not handing you the keys.

Why does your small business need a website?

Here’s the good news: you can take back control. Your website is the one place online where you’re in charge — don’t leave your business’s future in the hands of algorithms.

And to level-set: I’m not a web developer, but I’m comfortable with tools like WordPress and know how to make a site work for a small business. The good news? Your website doesn’t need to be flashy or complicated.

Here’s why it’s important:

• You own it — no one can take it away. Your website isn’t subject to algorithm changes or platform rules. You decide what customers see and how they experience your brand.

• It works 24/7 to bring in leads. An optimized website consistently appears in Google searches. Someone looking for “dog groomer near me” or “best wedding photographer in [your city]” can find you even while you’re sleeping.

• It builds trust and credibility. A clean, professional site makes you look established. People are far more likely to book or buy from a business with a solid website than one with just a Facebook Page.

• It also must be mobile-friendly. Here’s the kicker: over 60% of people will visit your site from their phone. If it’s slow, hard to navigate, or looks weird on a small screen, they’re gone. A mobile-friendly website isn’t optional anymore — it’s the first impression you make.

Why should small businesses build an email list?

Your email list is your secret weapon.

• You own your list. Instagram (or other platforms) can’t take away your followers if they’re on your email list.

• It’s personal and direct. Emails go straight to your customers’ inboxes — no fighting the algorithm.

• It drives sales. Even a small, engaged email list of 50–100 people can bring in real revenue.

• It’s easy to start. Add a simple sign-up form to your website and offer a small incentive (like “10% off your first order” or a free guide).

There are many beginner-friendly email marketing platforms out there, such as Mailchimp and Constant Contact. But take time to find one that fits your business’s needs. If you’re looking for simple, affordable options, check out MailerLite or Sender — both are great for small business owners who want professional emails without getting overwhelmed.

Should I stop using social media for my business?

Absolutely not! Social platforms are perfect for discovery and engagement, but they shouldn’t be your entire strategy.

Even with Instagram’s new search update, you’re still building on borrowed land.

Here’s a better approach:

• Use social media to connect with customers. Share your work, show your personality, and answer questions to stay top of mind.

• Drive traffic to your website.
  • Add your website link in your Instagram bio and mention it in posts (“Click the link in bio to learn more”).
  • Better yet, use tools like ManyChat on Facebook and Instagram to send automated messages with your website link to people who comment or DM you.
  • Create Stories with clickable link stickers (available to all accounts now).

How do I get started with a website for my small business?

If your website hasn’t been updated in years or you’ve been relying 100% on social media, now’s the time to take action:

• Make sure your site is mobile-friendly, easy to navigate, and optimized for search.
• Add a simple email sign-up to start building your list.
• Then use social media to drive people to your website.

Your website is the one place online where you’re fully in control. Don’t leave your business’s future in the hands of algorithms.

Not sure where to start?

While I’m not a developer, I’m experienced with WordPress and specialize in helping small businesses build websites and content strategies that attract and convert customers. Let’s chat about how to make your website and email list a powerful foundation for your business. Ready to take the first step? Let’s talk about what’s possible.