Local Marketing

Lets consider a scenario. You are a local business, which means to us that your marketing area is rather limited geographically - maybe not more than a 100-mile radius from your firm, business or storefront. You have spent considerable time and money developing an online presence and making sure that your website is listed in the major search engines and directories as discussed on our Search Engine page.

After waiting a few months and following your website logs you become aware that you have attracted little traffic - you are disappointed and disillusioned. You are not alone!

What we offer

A custom approach to all this. This is a challenging area and has the potential to yield spectacular results if done correctly. We will develop a plan that integrates with your existing promotion and marketing programs. Included in the plan could be some changes to your site to optimize it for local Internet marketing.

Here are some strategies we would consider. The list below is not intended to be exhaustive but representative:

• Make sure that your content includes the name of your city. This will help when people search for you on the web.
• You are in the search engine and directories. Are you in the "local" categories in those vehicles?
• Have you searched out local online portal sites such as the online version of the regional newspaper, Internet Service Provider, and other local guides and directories that cater to a defined geographical area? Some charge for listings, some are free.
• Make sure you include your website address whenever you place and ad in the newspaper, yellow pages, etc.
• It should go without saying - is your website address on every piece of literature that you produce -business card, stationery, periodic mailings, fliers, maybe even a web decal on your car, etc.?
• Develop an email list or lists and then use it to send out announcements re changes in your site, specials, etc. Refer to our page on the use of email to market your site.
• Partner with other local vendors or businesses. Share links; send out joint mailings and/or emails. Of course chose partners who complement your business.
• Press releases. Local papers are always looking for stories of local importance.
• The use of Google AdWords might be appropriate.
• One last thought on this issue. Postcards are inexpensive yet an effective way of communicating your website name and contents.

Don't forget to incorporate local marketing techniques in your overall website marketing plan! It will make a difference.