Do You Really Need a Website? Let’s Talk About It.

I own a software company, and we pay bills from making websites. But not everyone *needs* a website, and not everyone needs one ‘right now’!

If you simply check in your network, you will hear some people say great things about how having a website developed has helped their businesses grow, and on the other hand, you will hear an equal number of people disappointed with how their website is not generating enough leads.

A website isn’t a magic growth pill. It’s a tool, and like any tool, it’s useless if you don’t need it yet.

The “Website FOMO” Trap

The internet is screaming at small businesses: “Get a website! Get a website!” And sure, if you’re a SaaS startup or a consultancy, ignore me and go build that site yesterday. But if you’re selling pickles at a local farmers’ market or customizing juttis on Instagram?

Stop. Breathe. Ask yourself:

• Are my customers actually searching for me online?

• Can I piggyback on platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, or Meesho first?

• Will a website today add value or just drain my time/money?

When a Website Can Wait

Here’s the reality: building a website is just the first step. What follows is a whole lot of work — traffic analysis, content management, blogs, maintenance, promotion, and sometimes ads. If you’re not ready for that commitment, it’s okay to hold off.

Skip it (for now) if…

• You’re testing a product idea (use Instagram Shops or Etsy instead).

• Your audience is hyper-local (WhatsApp catalogs work wonders).

• You’re bootstrapping hard (time and money are better spent elsewhere).

Focus on building a solid client base and generating enough revenue first. A website can come later, when you’re ready to scale.

When a Website is Non-Negotiable

That said, there are times when a website isn’t just helpful — it’s essential.

Build it yesterday if…

• You’re service-based (portfolio + testimonials = trust).

• You’re scaling beyond D2C platforms (own your audience!).

• You’re tired of paying marketplace fees (and want to keep that 15% commission in your pocket).

The Bottom Line

The digital marketing world loves to sell urgency. “Get a website! Buy ads! Go viral!” But here’s what I’ve learned after 10 years in this game: Growth isn’t about doing everything — it’s about doing the right thing at the right time.

So, before you start stressing over domain names and hosting plans, ask yourself: Do I really need a website right now? If the answer is no, that’s fine. Focus on building your business first. The website can wait.

Let’s Talk

What do you think? Am I totally off base here, or does this resonate with you? Let’s talk about it.

P.S. I’ve been helping small and medium businesses scale since 2004. If you’re looking for business consultation or software services, simply book a free consultation call here.

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🚀 COO @ Genetech Solutions | 20+ years in tech | Sharing insights on AI, tech, business, and empowerment.​ https://linktr.ee/shamimrajani

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