Your business website is a critical aspect of being able to start and continue conversations with potential clients. It's the ultimate self-service window for potential and current clients who come to you interested in your services and/or products.

Every service professional needs a web presence. It's almost impossible to find a successful service professional who doesn't have one. Here are the top 7 reasons why:

1. Your website positions you as an expert.

Perception is everything on the internet. Having your own website increases your visibility, credibility and trust.

2. A strong web presence adds to your brand identity.

Your website represents you and your business in the marketplace.

3. Your website expands your reach into the global marketplace.

If you have a product available on your website you'll expand your geographic marketplace from local neighborhoods where your product sits on a shelf, to the entire world via your website.

4. A website creates a 24/7, passive revenue, profit machine.

The internet never sleeps which means that you can literally turn your computer and website into a cash register around the clock, and many, if not all, of the processes can be automated.

5. Your website instantly increases the effectiveness of your sales cycle.

The sales cycle is especially critical for service professionals. A website with an opt-in incentive allows you to build your database, while building rapport with prospective clients. By offering something of value, like a free report, e-course, or audio file, in exchange for an email address, your visitors begin to see your offer and your services as an investable opportunity.

6. Your site filters out clients who aren't well-suited to your services.

All of your marketing materials should direct potential clients to your website, where you can save precious time by allowing them to familiarize themselves with you and your services. This allows them to determine whether or not they feel they'd be well-suited to you.

7. Your web presence is a fantastic vehicle for bold self-expression and learning.

The site is an extension and representation of who you are and what you offer. To get ahead of the curve as a service professional you will need to understand how to master the advantages of technology. And the best way to learn this is by expressing yourself through your website.

And always keep in mind the Award Winning Web Course mantra: "The effectiveness of your website is directly proportional to how solution-oriented your offers are with respect to your target audience."

Visit www.awardwinningwebcourse.com for a simple, step-by-step guide to developing highly effective websites.

By Michael Port, best-selling Author of Book Yourself Solid, The 7 Keys To Getting More Clients Than You Can Handle and Beth M. Lyons, the Techie Coach.