Is My Business Online? Checklist

Online Presence

Can people find your business on the internet?

0/4

Done

My business has a website

Any website — even a simple one-page site counts

My website has its own domain name

e.g. mybusiness.com — not a free subdomain like mybusiness.wixsite.com

My business appears on Google when someone searches for it

Try searching your business name right now to check

My business is listed on Google Maps / Google Business Profile Optional

Free listing — customers can find your location, hours, and reviews

Social Media

Are you findable and active where your customers are?

0/4

Done

My business has a Facebook Page (not just a personal profile)

A business page — separate from your personal Facebook account

I post on social media at least once a week

Consistent posting keeps your business visible to followers

I use WhatsApp Business (not regular WhatsApp) for customers

WhatsApp Business has a catalogue, business hours, and auto-replies

My social profiles show my contact info and what I sell Optional

Bio, phone/email, location, and a clear description of your products or services

Payments

Can customers pay you easily — online or on the go?

0/4

Done

I accept mobile money payments (e.g. Airtel Money, MTN, Zamtel)

The most common payment method for small businesses in Zambia

I have a payment link I can send to customers

A link that lets customers pay without needing to visit a physical store

Customers can order and pay through my website or social media Optional

Online checkout, Facebook shop, Instagram shopping, or a booking form

I send receipts or order confirmations to every customer Optional

Even a WhatsApp message confirming the order and amount counts

Tools & Day-to-Day Operations

Are you using digital tools to run your business — not just WhatsApp?

0/4

Done

I have a business email address (not a personal Gmail)

e.g. '[email protected]' — looks more professional to clients

I track my orders or customer requests somewhere outside of WhatsApp

Even a simple spreadsheet or notebook counts — as long as you don't lose orders

I keep a record of my sales or income — even a basic one Optional

A spreadsheet, notebook, or simple app — anything that isn't just memory

I have a way for customers to book, enquire, or order online Optional

A booking form, Calendly link, Google Form, or online ordering system

Your Numbers

Do you know what's working — and what isn't?

0/4

Done

I know roughly how many people visit my website or social pages each month

Facebook Insights, Instagram Analytics, or Google Analytics — check them occasionally

I know which of my products or services sells the most

Even if it's from memory — you have a sense of your best-seller

I know how most of my new customers find me Optional

Referral, Facebook, Google, walk-in — knowing this helps you focus your energy

I review my business numbers at least once a month Optional

Sales, expenses, followers, or enquiries — any regular check-in on how you're doing