It can make all the difference. People are more likely to buy something from a website than going to a local store or a mall to get a product. Besides, most people don't have too much time to lose so buying products on a website is faster.

Consequently, you need to have a well designed site, and update it often. A website is marketing strategy so make the most of it.

Also notice that a website gives you and your small business a more professional image,and, it will certainly increase your sales. Consider online sales your best friends.

Hope this helps

Yes ,deffinitely.I would rather say that having a website is a must in our days even if your business is reffering to a small geographical range.By having a website your business gets more exposure and people get to know better .

If you want a website make a post on elance.com. A decent website should cost you less than $1000. Actually check out Getmefast.com I got my website through them an am very impressed. The website ended up costing $100 US.

I own a web development company, and most of the work I get, I get from my website, and the fact that my site is ranked well on Google.

You absolutely can make a living from people finding your site and calling you... the more specific your keywords are, and the more local your target (like a local service business) the more likely that you get a high call volume.

Of course you also have to have a well designed, well written website for it to work. Here's some tips about writing website content: http://westcoastweb.com/content.php, and you should also check out the company branding item under portfolio, for an example of a proper brand between your site and your offline world.

Its not a silly question at all !

I agree with all the "best answer" response, but another thing is helping word of mouth referalls - even without social media, if your customers are talking with their freinds at a coffee shop, they won't have your business card on them... so if they are trying to refer you they will use your name and maybe location and their friend will go home and google you :)

I've owned a natural therapies practice for the last 9 years and I would definately say that every business should have a professional and up to date site - it can be frustrating trying to get it all done though! So much so that I've started a webdesign business as well. You can get a professional SEO'd site with free keyword research taht you can then update yourself for $550 AU usually within the week.