Why a Facebook Page Isn’t Enough - And What a Proper Website Offers
If you’re a small business owner in the Eastern Panhandle of WV, chances are you’ve got a Facebook page set up. Maybe a friend told you, “You don’t need a website—just use Facebook!”
Here’s the truth: a Facebook page is a great tool, but it’s not a replacement for a business website. Think of Facebook as your business’s rented stall at the local farmers market—it’s useful, gets foot traffic, and people can find you there. But at the end of the day, you don’t own it, and the landlord can change the rules anytime.
Your website, on the other hand, is like owning your own storefront downtown. It’s your permanent address, fully under your control, and the place customers know they can always find you.
Let’s explore what statistics are showing, what Facebook is good for, and what a website gives you that Facebook alone can’t match.
Why Facebook Alone Doesn’t Cut It
Recent data shows Facebook engagement is declining:
Over 60% of Americans still use Facebook, but activity is shrinking—especially among younger customers.
Many users now just scroll without liking, commenting, or interacting as much.
For 18–24 year-olds (future customers!), Facebook isn’t where they go to make buying decisions.
This means relying only on a Facebook page limits your reach and credibility, especially as more people look elsewhere for businesses like yours.
What a Facebook Page Is Good For
Don’t get me wrong—Facebook has its place! For local businesses in the Eastern Panhandle of WV and the DMV, Facebook works well for:
Sharing quick updates (hours, closings, specials)
Posting photos or announcements to your local followers
Collecting reviews and recommendations
Running local ads or promotions
In other words, Facebook is like your business’s bulletin board in the town square—great for quick updates and community interaction.
Why You Still Need a Website
Here’s where the difference comes in - Website Advantage
Credibility & Trust: Customers expect a website. Without one, you risk looking less professional than competitors.
Google Search Visibility: Most people search on Google, not Facebook. Without a site, you won’t show up where it matters most.
Full Control: Facebook controls layout, rules, and visibility. Your website is yours—no algorithm decides who sees your info.
Better Customer Experience: A website can offer booking forms, menus, service details, and FAQs—without distractions.
Room to Grow: As your business expands, your website can grow with you (online store, scheduling, blogs, etc.).
The Best Strategy: Use Both Together
For most small businesses in the Eastern Panhandle of WV, the smart move isn’t either/or—it’s both.
Use Facebook to share quick updates, post photos, run local ads, and connect with your community.
Use your website as your home base: the place customers find you on Google, book services, view your offerings, and get all the details they need to hire or buy from you.
Link them together: Send Facebook followers to your website for deeper info, and add your Facebook feed or reviews to your site for social proof.
Final Word
Your Facebook page is important, but it’s not your business’s permanent home. It’s like renting a booth—you’re at the mercy of the platform’s rules. A website, though, is your business’s front door online—always open, always yours, and always working for you.
If you’re ready to give your business in West Virgina a stronger online presence, I can help you create a website that’s professional, easy to use, and designed to attract local customers.
Let’s build your digital home base—so your customers can find you, trust you, and choose you.
Looking for affordable website design in Martinsburg, WV? Let’s build you a professional site that gets found on Google and brings in more local customers.
