Using Local Ads to Generate New Business

Looking for another quick profitable business idea?

Even if you are not a typical brick and mortar business you should consider placing local ads to generate leads for your customer base.   When I say local ads I don’t necessarily mean the traditional local ad route like the newspaper.  While  local newspaper ads may be slightly effective your goal should be to focus on building your customer base, utilizing technology.  There are several really great ways to generate traffic, advertise locally and be found by customers by utilizing the methods mentioned below.

Now how can we even consider a marketing campaign online without mentioning Google?  Did you know that Google is used in over 90% of all online searches?  Staggering numbers right? So we will explore this avenue first.

First off you should have a Google account set up already as you should be using it for various business productivity tools already.  Once you visit the search engine if you do not land on their maps page you will need to click on that link located in the upper right corner.  Once on the maps page find the tab located near the bottom of the page that says “put your business on Google Maps”.

The balance of the listing process is simple.  One thing to keep in mind – if you are operating your business out of your home and do not want your address advertised, be sure to click the tab that says ‘Yes this business serves”.

Be sure to complete the entire form and use keyword rich information in your descriptions!  If you are a small business owner in a heavily populated area like NY, Atlanta or LA your ad could get lost in searches so try to be descriptive.

Also keep in mind customers can give you reviews to help prospective customers decide about your business.  Encourage people to give reviews to boost your popularity.

Now all you have to do is upload a photo and YouTube videos if you have them and you are on your way to some local business!

Another great way to generate local business is Merchant Circle.  This local advertising space is great it not only allows you to advertise your business but also allows customers to add reviews.

You can connect with other local businesses in your area.  On a personal note I have found businesses using the local business advertising method.  I am also a huge business review person.  If I am looking to buy something or go somewhere I know little about, I will do a search for business reviews.  Depending on what I see I may choose to patronize or avoid a business altogether.

Recently, I had to take a trip to Detroit, MI.  Due to the not so popular media reviews about Detroit I was a little hesitant when making hotel reservations.  I searched business reviews and found that the hotel I was considering (which was considered a 4 star hotel) had a few instances of bed bugs!  Yuck!  Okay, I digress.

Last but not least the most obvious form of local advertising is…………..drum roll please!  Craigslist, now I know this site has had lots of negative publicity because of the huge amounts of scam advertisements.  But I have found some good deals and business leads on Craigslist. You just have to be cautious.  When you place your ad for business direct people to your site and be sure to make your email anonymous .  Depending on what kind of business you have you can even upload photos of your items.

Whichever method(s) you decide to try, be sure to try something.  All roads lead to more customers.  That is why we’re in business right?