As a coin dealer, having a functional and user-friendly website is essential. Your website is likely to be the first point of contact for your customers before they visit your shop or reach out to you. It serves as your initial impression. Unfortunately, I have come across numerous coin dealer websites that seem outdated, resembling something created in the 1990s using Microsoft Word or similar tools. These websites often consist of basic information and perhaps a collection of links to other poorly designed websites as part of an outdated link exchange program. While I won’t list all the subpar sites here, if you’re reading this, you likely understand what I’m referring to there are thousands of them.
In today’s world, customers expect more. A visually appealing website that showcases your services, contact information, map, business hours, specialties, and affiliations is the minimum requirement. Fortunately, setting up such a site doesn’t have to cost thousands of dollars. A simple one-page website built with current technology should not exceed $500.00, and you will need to allocate a few bucks per month for hosting. A poorly designed website can certainly have a negative impact on your business.
In addition to the category of “bad websites” I mentioned earlier, we must also include newer sites that fail to function as intended or expected. An excellent example is websites that are not mobile-friendly. Your customers aren’t solely using desktop computers at home; they are primarily browsing on their phones, even when at home. If your site cannot be easily accessed on a phone, it simply won’t be used. Your customers will quickly move on to the next accessible and readable coin dealer site.
I have included this information because many fellow coin dealers fail to grasp the importance of having a functional website. As an example, I have a friend who is a dealer in my area, and for the past five years, he has been using a PDF page as his website. He paid a marketing company to create a flyer and then used that flyer image as his website. This approach is and continues to be a terrible idea. It makes him and his business appear cheap, and it does nothing to attract potential customers. If you have previously attempted to create a website but were dissatisfied with the tools and process available 15 years ago, I encourage you to give it another try. The current tools and platforms are significantly better and easier to use.
Here’s some more information about the importance of having a usable website as a coin dealer
Online Presence and Visibility:
In today’s digital age, having an online presence is crucial for businesses, including coin dealers.
A well-designed website increases your visibility and makes it easier for potential customers to find you.
It allows you to reach a broader audience, including local customers and those searching for specific coins or services.
Credibility and Professionalism:
A professionally designed and functional website enhances your credibility as a coin dealer.
It conveys a sense of professionalism, expertise, and trustworthiness to visitors.
A well-structured website with relevant information and engaging content can help establish your business as a reputable source for coins.
Showcasing Inventory and Services:
Your website serves as a platform to showcase your inventory, including rare coins, collectibles, and specialty items.
High-quality images, detailed descriptions, and pricing information can attract potential buyers and collectors.
Additionally, you can highlight your services, such as appraisals, authentication, grading, and buying/selling assistance.
Customer Convenience and Engagement:
A user-friendly website makes it convenient for customers to explore your offerings and learn more about your business.
Online contact forms, email addresses, and phone numbers allow visitors to easily get in touch with you for inquiries or transactions.
Incorporating customer reviews, testimonials, and a frequently asked questions (FAQ) section can enhance customer engagement and build trust.
Mobile Responsiveness:
With the increasing use of smartphones and tablets, having a mobile-responsive website is essential.
Ensuring that your website adapts and functions well on various screen sizes and devices improves the user experience.
Mobile responsiveness helps potential customers access your site anytime, anywhere, leading to increased engagement and potential sales.
Marketing and Customer Acquisition:
A well-optimized website can support your marketing efforts and help attract new customers.
You can utilize search engine optimization (SEO) techniques to improve your website’s visibility in search engine results.
Integrating social media links, blog content, and newsletters on your site can further expand your reach and engage with a wider audience.
Remember, designing and maintaining a usable website requires attention to factors such as user experience, visual appeal, functionality, and content relevance. It’s advisable to consult with web design professionals or utilize website builders and platforms that offer user-friendly interfaces and customizable templates to create an effective online presence for your coin dealership.
