The world of business is going through a technology-led transformation, and becoming less personal as a result, according to a new survey of UK small businesses.
More than half (57%) of small firms believe technology is making business less personal, the findings from BT Business revealed. However, firms realise the importance of not being left behind by IT, with 74% saying the internet will play an important part in achieving their goals.
Additionally, 63% of small businesses believe the internet allows them to compete with bigger players and in different markets.
As a result, 52% of small firms now use the internet as the primary channel to market their business, according to the research.
Despite the importance of online presence however, 15% of businesses also said that they are unlikely to trust a company they meet on the internet, and 90% of firms said they preferred working with businesses recommended to them.
But Ivan Croxford, head of Market Development at BT Business, believes the personal element can still be capitalised upon online:
“We may not go to as many face-to-face meetings, but we’re communicating and sharing thoughts a lot more, using e-mail, blogs and social networking sites in both our business and personal lives.
“That’s set to continue and grow, as small businesses begin to see the real benefits of the latest technology, which gives them the ability to interact more easily and meaningfully with customers, partners and suppliers.”
However, it was also found that 40% of small businesses still do not have a dedicated website. Sole traders are the least likely to use the internet for business purposes, with 48% having no web presence.
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