A website may not be the first thing anybody thinks of when it comes to things a Social Worker needs, but there here are some of the primary reasons Social Workers want a website.
1. To Introduce
As a Social Worker, a website is a great way to present your story – who you are, how you got where you are, what pushes you forward – because a brief introduction is never enough to convey who a person really is. Websites are perfect because it gives people the opportunity to take their time getting to know you, and you get to choose how to develop your introduction. What would you like to communicate to your community?
2. To Be Found
Social Work professionals develop reputations in their community, and word of mouth is a powerful way to reach new people. The obvious first step when looking for a person or service is to start looking online. A number of factors can make it harder for internet users to find their desired result, and having a website can be a great tool for your community members to find you. What are internet users finding when they search for you?
3. To Inform
Now that we have established the internet is the likely first place a person will look for information, what kinds of details will a person be looking for? For those providing or seeking services, websites are great because they can display vast amounts of content. As a website owner, you can be as detailed as you want to be and provide an official source of information for your community members.
4. To Share
Anybody can share just about anything on the internet, and this fact has opened up the minds of millions of people around the world. The capacity for open exchange online has been life changing for vulnerable and marginalized populations. The internet is a utility and tool for providing access to tangible and intangible resources, and a powerful platform for sharing knowledge, skill and support.
5. To Create
Creating a place in web space can empower a website owner to be creative in a way that isn’t possible on other platforms. Owning a website provides freedom and control that is restricted in many public sharing spaces. When you manage your own website, there are no word limits, content violations or public comments – unless that’s what you want.