Do I need a website if I have a Google listing?
An honest answer for local businesses
Plenty of local businesses get by on a Google listing alone. Here's an honest look at what a listing does, what it can't do, and when a website is worth it.
What your Google listing already does
When someone nearby searches for what you do, your listing can show your name, opening hours, phone number, directions, photos and reviews. For a lot of quick decisions ("is it open now?") that's enough.
What it can't do
- Show everything you offer. A listing has room for a few services and photos. A website can show your full menu, your prices if you want, and each service on its own page.
- Explain why you. Your story, how you work, what makes you different. A listing is the same layout as everyone else's.
- Take bookings or enquiries your way. A form that asks the right questions, a quote request, an online shop.
- Be yours. Google decides what your listing shows and how. Your website and your domain stay under your control.
When a listing alone is fine
If people find you by walking past, by word of mouth, or for one simple thing (a takeaway, a quick repair), a well-kept listing may be all you need for now. Keep the hours right, add good photos and answer reviews.
When a website is worth it
- Customers compare a few businesses before they call (trades, health, finance, events).
- You sell more than one or two things, or want to explain them properly.
- You'd like enquiries, bookings or orders to come straight to you.
- Your listing shows a "Website" button with nothing behind it, or a competitor's site looks better than yours.
What it takes
With me, a simple site can be ready to look at within a week, and you see it working before you pay anything. The listing and the website then work together: the listing gets you found, the website gets you chosen.
Talk it through
Not sure which you need? Ask me and I'll tell you honestly, even if the answer is "just fix your listing". · Web design on the Northern Beaches · My work