The Biggest Mistakes Small Businesses Make with Their Online Presence

Published February 18th, 2025

Do Not Make These Mistakes...
Many small business owners try to establish an online presence but unknowingly make mistakes that cost them customers and revenue. Simply having a website or social media page isn’t enough. If your online presence isn’t optimized, you could be driving potential customers away without realizing it.

Below, we’ll break down the biggest mistakes small businesses make online and how to fix them.
 

Not Having a Professional Website


A website is the foundation of your online presence. Without one, potential customers may not take your business seriously.
 
  • 70% of consumers won’t trust a business without a website
 
  • 81% of people research online before making a purchase

If your business only relies on social media, you’re missing out on customers who search for businesses through Google. A well-designed professional website provides credibility, builds trust, and helps convert visitors into paying customers.
 

What Your Website Should Include

To maximize results, your website should have:

 

  • A mobile-friendly design for users on all device

  • Clear contact information and a call-to-action

  • Fast load times to prevent visitors from leaving

  • SEO optimization for better Google rankings

  • Integrated lead capture forms to generate inquiries

Learn more about getting a website for your business here.

 

Ignoring Google Business Profile Optimization

 

Many small businesses claim their Google Business Profile (GBP) but don’t manage it properly. An incomplete or outdated profile can hurt your visibility on Google.

 

  • 46% of all Google searches are looking for local businesses

  • Optimized GBPs get 7x more clicks than unoptimized ones


A well-managed Google Business Profile improves your search rankings, helps customers find you easily, and drives more calls and visits to your business.

Key Elements of a Fully Optimized Google Business Profile

To get the most out of GBP, make sure you:

 

  • Use high-quality images of your business

  • Keep your hours and contact details up to date

  • Respond to customer reviews promptly

  • Add posts and promotions regularly

  • Use accurate categories and keywords


See how GBP management can help.

 

Poor Social Media Management

 

Many business owners make the mistake of treating social media as an afterthought. Posting randomly, using low-quality images, or failing to engage with followers can make your brand look unprofessional.

 

  • 79% of consumers expect businesses to respond on social media

  • Businesses that post consistently see higher engagement and brand awareness


A strong Social Media Management strategy includes high-quality content, engagement, and targeted growth techniques to attract new customers.

What Makes a Strong Social Media Strategy?

To build a successful presence, your social media should:

 

  • Be consistent with brand messaging and tone

  • Post engaging content that encourages interaction

  • Include professional images and videos

  • Utilize hashtags and location tags for visibility

  • Monitor insights and adjust strategies based on performance


Need help with social media? We’ve got you covered.

 

Not Managing Online Reviews and Reputation

 

Online reviews can make or break a business. If you’re not actively managing your reputation, you’re allowing negative reviews to damage your brand.

 

  • 87% of consumers read reviews before choosing a business

  • Businesses with more positive reviews rank higher in search results


With Reputation Management, you can monitor and respond to reviews, encourage positive feedback, and protect your brand’s image.

How to Improve Your Online Reputation

To maintain a strong reputation, make sure to:

 

  • Request reviews from happy customers

  • Address negative reviews professionally and promptly

  • Display positive testimonials on your website

  • Monitor and respond to all feedback

  • Use automation tools to streamline review management


Find out how Reputation Management can help your business.

 

Failing to Keep Business Information Updated

 

One of the biggest mistakes small businesses make is having outdated or inconsistent information online. If your phone number, address, or hours of operation are incorrect, you’ll frustrate customers and lose sales.

 

  • 73% of consumers lose trust in businesses with inconsistent information

  • Incorrect business details can cause missed calls, lost visits, and customer frustration


Make sure your website, social media, and Google Business Profile all have up-to-date information so customers can easily contact you.

 

Final Thoughts: Avoiding These Mistakes Will Help Your Business Grow

 

Your online presence is one of the most powerful tools for attracting customers. By avoiding these common mistakes and investing in professional website creation, social media management, and reputation management, your business can stand out and thrive online.

At Cannone Marketing, we specialize in helping small businesses improve their online presence. Whether you need a website, Google Business Profile management, or Social Media Management, we have the expertise to help your business grow.

Get started today and take your online presence to the next level.