Why Every Business Still Needs a Website in Addition to Instagram

Why Every Business Still Needs a Website in Addition to Instagram

"Don't throw all your eggs in the Instagram basket" has been mentioned way too many times around here. Instagram has become an essential tool for building a small business. However, as outlined in one of our last blogs, 5 Reasons Instagram Will Never Replace a Website, it’s clear that your business website still plays a critical role in your overall marketing and brand awareness.

Instagram may be popular and free, but it doesn’t offer the ownership, depth, or reliability that a dedicated website does. (This is the hill our co-founder, Alicia, will die on).

One of the biggest advantages of a website is ownership. Unlike Instagram, which is controlled by ever-changing algorithms and terms of service, your website is a digital property that you fully control. You decide how your content is displayed, what features to include, and how to guide users through your brand experience.

Having a website also boosts your brand’s credibility. You look so professional! While Instagram can show your personality and aesthetic, it doesn’t provide the comprehensive, trustworthy information that many customers are looking for. This could include things such as FAQs, pricing, service details, or client testimonials. But good branding will make any website aesthetically pleasing, too. Your business is legitimate and ready to meet customer needs with transparency and professionalism -- so get a website. PS: One-page websites are the new social media, anyway. IYKYK

Websites also offer SEO. A well-optimized website helps potential customers discover your brand when they search on Google or other search engines. Your content can be indexed, ranked, and easily found by people who are actively searching for what you offer.

Another key benefit of a website is access to analytics. With tools like Google Analytics, you can track who’s visiting your site, how they found you, and what content they engage with most. These insights allow you to make smarter marketing decisions.

That said, Instagram and your website should work together. You should have a marketing pizza pie and everything has a slice. Instagram doesn't need to be an entire pizza. (We like metaphors lately) Instagram is a great way to bring energy and visibility to your brand, but your posts should always point back to your website. Your posts can be new blog posts, service updates, or product launches. Use social media as a gateway to your site.