You do not need a huge budget to get your business online. You need a simple sequence of steps, done in the right order.
Step 1: Claim your Google Business Profile
It is free, and it puts your phone number, hours and reviews in front of nearby customers. Complete every field and add photos.
Step 2: Set up WhatsApp Business
Add your catalogue, greeting and quick replies. Many local customers prefer chatting to calling.
Step 3: Build a simple, fast website
Include what you offer, prices or price ranges, photos, reviews, location and a clear contact button. Make sure it works well on mobile. See the website cost guide and our web development services.
Step 4: Take payments and orders online
Accept UPI and cards. If you sell products, consider an online store.
Step 5: Organise the back office
Move billing, stock and customer records from registers to software, so you save time and avoid mistakes. Explore business solutions for retail, clinics, pharmacies and more.
Step 6: Learn what works
Install Google Analytics and Search Console. Check weekly which pages and searches bring enquiries.
A 14-day plan for a small business
| Days | Task |
|---|---|
| 1-2 | Write your business name, address, phone, hours and a one-paragraph description. Gather logo and 10 real photos. |
| 3-4 | Create or claim your Google Business Profile and set up WhatsApp Business. |
| 5-9 | Build a simple website with home, services, about and contact pages, optimised for mobile. |
| 10-11 | Add Google Analytics, Search Console and a contact form that reaches your phone or email. |
| 12-13 | Ask five customers for Google reviews; list the business in two or three trusted directories. |
| 14 | Announce the website on your social pages and WhatsApp status. |
What to put on every business website
- A clear headline that says what you do and where.
- Phone, WhatsApp and a short enquiry form that works on mobile.
- Services or products with simple descriptions.
- Real photos, not only stock images.
- Customer reviews or a few client names with permission.
- Address, map and opening hours.
- A privacy policy if you collect enquiries.
Common mistakes
- Spending on a design but not on speed or content.
- Using a different phone number on each platform.
- Forgetting to track enquiries, so you never learn what works.
- Putting up a website and never updating it.
Free tools to start with
Google Business Profile, Google Analytics, Google Search Console, WhatsApp Business and Bing Places are free. Learn more in our Google Business Profile guide and the local SEO guide.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a website if I already use social media?
Yes. A website is an asset you own, appears in search and builds trust. Social pages support it.
How much does a business website cost?
It depends on pages and features; see the website cost guide.
Step 7: Grow with SEO and content
Publish helpful pages and posts about your services and city. Read our local SEO guide.
Not sure where to start? Request a free website audit or book a call.