A lot of local business owners set up a Facebook page years ago and figured that covered it. It's free, it's easy, and customers can find you there. So do you really need a website too?
The short answer
For most established businesses, you need both, and they do different jobs. Your website is your storefront: you own it, it shows up on Google and it answers every question. Facebook and Instagram are where you stay in touch: recent work, specials, news and conversation.
Side by side
| Website | Facebook page | |
|---|---|---|
| Who owns it | You do | Facebook does. They control the rules and what your followers see. |
| Shows up on Google | Yes, strongly | Sometimes, weakly |
| Everyone can see it | Yes | Some content is limited for people without an account |
| Looks professional | Fully under your control | Looks like every other page |
| Good for news and photos | Okay | Excellent |
| Good for answering "who are you and what do you do?" | Excellent | Limited |
Why a Facebook page alone falls short
- Not everyone uses it. Many customers, especially younger ones, rarely open Facebook.
- You don't control it. Pages get hacked, accounts get locked and the rules change.
- Google favors websites. Your website helps your Google Maps listing rank, and a Facebook page does much less.
- It's harder to look established. A professional website tells customers you're a serious, lasting business.
How they work together
Your website, your Google listing and your social pages should all point to each other, with the same name, phone number and hours everywhere. The website explains who you are. Google sends people to you. Social media keeps you top of mind.
That's the setup we build for every client: a website, a complete Google listing and social media that's handled for you.