10 myths about building a website that could be holding your business back

If you’ve been thinking about setting up a website for your small business but haven’t taken the plunge yet, it’s completely understandable. Running a business already takes a lot of energy and adding a website to the mix can feel like one more thing to tackle. Plus, there’s a lot of conflicting advice out there that can make it hard to know where to start.

The truth is, many small business owners hesitate to build a website because of common myths that make it seem more difficult, expensive, or unnecessary than it really is. Let’s look at some of those myths—and why they don’t have to stop you from taking the next step for your business.

1. It’s too expensive

A lot of people assume building a website requires a big budget, but these days, that’s just not true. There are affordable tools and platforms—some even free—that let you build a professional website on a small budget. Whether you’re just starting out or keeping costs low, you can create something that works for your business without breaking the bank.

2. I don’t have the technical skills

Technology can feel intimidating, but the good news is that building a website doesn’t require coding or technical expertise anymore. Many website builders, like Squarespace or Wix, offer easy-to-use tools where you simply drag and drop content. If you’re comfortable sending emails or using apps, you can absolutely build a basic website.

3. My business doesn’t need a website

Some small business owners may think they don’t need a website because their business is local, niche or already runs well through word-of-mouth. But even a simple website can help new customers find you and reassure existing ones that you’re professional and credible. It doesn’t need to be flashy—just having basic information online can make a big difference.

4. Social media is enough

Social media is a great way to connect with customers, but it’s not the same as having a website. A website gives you a space that’s all yours—where you can showcase your brand, your story, and your services without relying on algorithms or changing rules. Think of it as your digital “home base” that works alongside your social media efforts.

5. It’s too time-consuming

Setting up a website does take some initial effort, but it doesn’t have to be a huge time investment. With modern tools, you can have a simple website up in a day or two. After that, maintenance is minimal—just occasional updates to keep things fresh. Many small businesses start with just a few pages and expand as they grow.

6. I don’t have enough content

It’s easy to feel like you need a ton of content to justify a website, but in reality, you don’t need much to get started. A homepage, a services page and a way for people to contact you are often enough. You can always add more over time, but even a small website helps people learn about your business and how to reach you.

7. My customers aren’t online

Even if your customers come from your local area or through referrals, many will still search for you online before reaching out. A website helps them find you and gives them the confidence that your business is established and trustworthy. It’s not just about the tech-savvy customers—everyone appreciates the convenience of finding clear, reliable information online.

8. Websites aren’t secure

Security concerns are valid, but they’re also manageable. Most website platforms today come with built-in security features like SSL certificates (which keep your site secure). Hosting companies and website builders often handle the technical side, so you don’t have to. Plus, there are simple best practices to follow, like keeping software updated.

9. Websites take too long to launch

Building a website can sound like a big project, but it doesn’t have to be. Thanks to user-friendly templates and pre-made designs, you can have something live much faster than you might think. You don’t have to launch a perfect site—just something that gets you started and gives your customers a way to connect with you.

10. I need a lot of products or services to justify a website

Whether you’re a freelancer offering one service or a shop selling just a few products, a website can work for you. It’s less about the number of offerings and more about showing what makes your business unique. A simple website can showcase your work, share your story, or help people get in touch—it doesn’t have to be big to make an impact.

Why it’s time to get started

Building a website might feel like a big step, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re a one-person operation or a growing team, having an online presence can help more people discover your business, answer their questions, and build trust. And with today’s tools, getting started is more accessible than ever.

If you’ve been on the fence, start small. Focus on the basics: who you are, what you do, and how people can contact you. Once your website is live, you can always add to it as your business evolves.

Remember, you don’t need to have all the answers or a perfect plan. Every business starts somewhere—and so does every website. When you’re ready, your customers will be waiting online to find you.