How to move your offline business online

Imagine this scenario: a friend tells you about a new restaurant or a company they heard about. You reach for your phone and try to Google them, but nothing shows up. No website. No business listing. No social media. Do they even exist?

If in 2025 your business is not online, you are doing something wrong. You have to be able to adapt to the times, and right now, the times require that you create an online presence for your offline. You might say “but my customers are not online.” Well, everyone is, and you’re missing out on a large audience  

Online visibility is no longer an option if you want to reach more people and be visible to those who matter to your business. We are going to break down why showing up online is important, how it impacts your business credibility, and what free tools you can use to grow your business without spending a kobo.

Why having an online presence is important

First of all, just because you are taking your business online does not mean your offline business will suffer. Actually, it’s the opposite. Moving your business online allows you to reach an untapped audience, which will, in turn, boost your offline business. So why should you create an online presence for your business?

1. First Impressions Happen Online

More often than not, before someone visits your store or office, they will look you up online. If they find nothing, doubts begin to creep in and they begin to ask questions like “is this business legit?  ” and “can I trust them?”. I don’t know about you, but when I look up businesses online and I see that they have an online presence, like a website or social media presence, I feel calmer.

Think about it, you’re more likely to trust a business that shows up on Google Maps, has reviews, a working website, and social media pages. It signals that they are real, active, and professional. Businesses that don’t exist online feel suspicious. A website, Google Business Profile, and active social presence can help make your business look credible. 76% of people who search for something nearby on their phone visit a business within a day. But only if they find you.   

2. It’s Free Online Real Estate 

Setting up an online presence for your business is a great way to promote your business for free. You can do it via a Google Business Profile, a website, or your social media. You can appear in local searches, get customer reviews, and even show up on Google Maps. All of this without paying a single naira.      

So… Why Are You Still Invisible?

Many business owners say, “I get customers by referral,” or “I use WhatsApp.” That’s wonderful, trust me, but what happens when that word-of-mouth customer forgets your name? Or when a stranger hears about you and wants to know more about your business? If they can’t Google you, they’ll likely Google your competitor, and they won’t be wrong to go with someone who looks credible.

Let’s talk about 3 tools that will help you become visible online starting today.

3 Tools to grow your business online

1. Google My Business Profile 

This is the single most important free tool for local businesses. With a Google Business Profile, you can:

  • Show up in local search results and Google Maps
  • Collect and respond to reviews
  • Post updates and offers
  • Add your business hours, location, contact, and services

Example: If someone types “cakes in Abuja,” and you’ve set up your profile correctly, your business can show up in those search results. All you need to do is add your business name, services, photos, and a short but rich description with keywords relevant to your business.

2. A Simple One-Page Website

You don’t need a fancy website to start. Just one page with the basics:

  • Who you are
  • What you offer
  • Contact details
  • A way to book or reach you

If you want something professional that reflects your brand and helps you generate leads, BEX-IT is a web design company that can design a fast, mobile-friendly website tailored to your business goals.

3. Social Media 

Instead of being on all platforms, pick one where your customers are. This might be Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn. Pick one and stay consistent. Post what you do, who your business helps, behind-the-scenes content, and satisfied customer reviews. Social proof helps you build trust.

How an online business makes you money

1. Get found by people searching for your services

People are Googling things like:

  • “plumber near me”    
  • “best cakes in Abuja”
  • “affordable photographer in Lekki”

If your business is optimized and listed correctly, you have a shot at getting that traffic and turning them into customers.

2. Build trust before they even meet you

Posting reviews, having a simple website, and social media content allow people to feel like they know you. By the time they reach out, they’re already halfway convinced.

3. Stand out from your Competitors

Many Nigerian businesses still rely solely on referrals and WhatsApp. You can stand out just by doing the basics online:

  • Having a clean, fast website
  • Showing up on Google
  • Displaying reviews
  • Explaining your services clearly

In conclusion 

You wouldn’t rent a store and never put a signboard outside. That’s what running a business without an online presence looks like.

In 2025, “just being good” is not enough. You need to be findable, trustworthy, and easy to learn about. The best part is you don’t have to spend a lot to make that happen.

Start with the free tools. Then invest in the essentials like a professional website, SEO, and strong content.

And if you need help? BEX-IT specializes in helping businesses like yours show up online, from website design to Google profile setup.

Let’s talk about how we can help you grow.