The prevalence of the Internet has changed the world for the better. It facilitates global connection, and in this world of always ‘being connected’, it’s almost impossible to imagine what it would be like without it. As individuals, we have multiple important use cases for it. From connecting with our family members to idle entertainment, to even something significant such as work, we simply can’t function without it.
In the case of a business, this reality hits even harder: many business operations now rely on the Internet to function properly. Without it, many daily tasks would be severely hampered, if not outright halted. But many small businesses seem to insist on functioning with little reliance on the Internet. While this might seem like a commendable effort, the conveniences of the Internet are far too useful to simply be ignored.
Large businesses have placed most of their important operations on the web, and there’s little reason for other businesses to not follow. Below are some reasons why the Internet is important for businesses of all kinds.
Improvements in Business Ops
Many of the traditional ways of accomplishing day to day tasks, such as spreadsheets, keeping track of inventory, and calculating profits and expenses are now much more convenient. These tasks can be done on a small computer (a tablet, or even a smartphone), and the output can be directly stored in the cloud, making it convenient to keep track of everything. Sending important files and paperwork is also possible, removing the need to constantly buy reams of papers and a large filing cabinet.
Simply put, any paperwork can now be done exclusively on a computer that can access the Internet, making a large part of your business operation more efficient. It also allows your employees to be connected, making collaboration and communication easier. With the popularity of professional communication software, sending important files, making important announcements, and even connecting with your colleagues casually is very much possible.
Marketing and Advertisement
people spending more and more time in virtual space, it’s safe to assume that most of everyone’s attention is on their social media newsfeed rather than the physical spaces such as billboards and posters. This is why major brands pour effort into their online presence. Social media advertisements, commercials on streaming platforms, and even banner ads make up most of their marketing budget.
For good reason too: these ads directly connect potential customers to their website, where their entire catalog and purchasing options are housed. In turn, online marketing produces more leads to customers ratio. For small businesses, it’s almost a necessity to have their website designed by professionals, as the site stands in place of a physical store. Any burgeoning company needs to have one, and with all the tools making it easy, there’s no reason not to.
Hiring and Recruitment
Classified ads in newspapers used to be the primary way of finding a job. Companies would pay newspapers for their job ad to be placed in the classified ads section and hope a potential employee comes by. Not anymore, however, as job hunts are now almost exclusively done online. With the help of job-seeking websites, employers can now look for potential employees in a much more efficient manner, removing the need to wait for days or weeks to turn up results.
Many headhunting companies also offer online support, making the need to fulfill manpower in a short amount of time ever more possible. Perhaps among the most useful aspects of the Internet, the job market isn’t such a tough thing to handle anymore, especially with a tool like this that makes it convenient.
Connecting with Clients
A good company values client or customer feedback, but actually receiving feedback can be a difficult thing to manage. Not many people have the time to write their thoughts on paper and mail it to a company. But with the help of the Internet, you can connect with your customers on a more personal level. Social media accounts can serve as a means of connecting with your clients on potential problems regarding your products or services, making the customer experience the best it has ever been.
Easy to use websites, the presence of an online shop, feedback forms after purchase; these are by now means new innovations, but now they are easier to accomplish. This results in customers feeling more obliged to send in their thoughts. And companies adjust to these demands as seen fit- after all, clients are the priority of any business, and feedback about their experience is important to improve the services.
