Website vs Social Media: Why Your Business Needs Both

"I've got an Instagram page, why do I need a website?" We hear this question from Australian business owners every week. While social media is a powerful tool, relying on it alone is a risky strategy. Here's why.

You Don't Own Your Social Media

Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok can change their algorithms, suspend your account, or even shut down entirely — and you'd lose everything overnight. Your followers, your content, your entire online presence. Gone.

A website is your property. You own it, control it, and no algorithm change can take it away from you.

Social Media Reach is Declining

Organic reach on platforms like Instagram and Facebook has plummeted in recent years. In 2026, the average business post reaches only 2-5% of your followers. That means if you have 1,000 followers, only 20-50 people see your posts.

Meanwhile, a well-optimised website can attract hundreds of visitors per month from Google searches — people who are actively looking for your services, not casually scrolling past your content.

Google Searches = High-Intent Customers

When someone searches "plumber near me" or "builder in Gold Coast," they're ready to hire. They have a problem, and they need a solution NOW. This is fundamentally different from someone casually scrolling Instagram.

Your website captures these high-intent searchers and converts them into paying customers.

A Website Builds Credibility

In 2026, not having a website makes your business look unprofessional. When a potential customer Googles your business name and finds nothing — or worse, finds a competitor — you've lost their trust before you even had a chance.

A professional website says: "We're established, we're serious, and we're here to stay."

The Winning Combination

The smartest Australian businesses use both:

• Website = your digital shopfront, lead generator, and Google ranking machine
• Social media = brand awareness, community engagement, and driving traffic to your website

Your social media should funnel people TO your website, where they can learn more, see your full portfolio, and get in touch.

Website vs Social Media: The Comparison