How to use online marketing to publicize products and services to local community

Allowing businesses to reach out to all the potential customers worldwide is probably one of the best things that have happened in the Internet marketing. While the Internet provides us with the connectivity on a global scale,one should also not neglect to publicize their businesses to the local surrounding community. In this article, we will share on how to market your services or products to your local consumers easily and effectively. After all, it is never a shame to grow from small until you are able to create a bigger and better things for your internet business.

Even though the online marketing has opened up the horizon of exciting opportunities, you should also continue with the traditional methods if possible. Do not abandon it entirely. The best is to use an integrated approach of both. For example, you can include the link to your website and e-mail address on all printed materials, such as fliers, brochures and signage. Post these resources around your community to entice other locals to explore your offering online. This information can also be included on your business cards, company letterhead and other promotional materials.

If you live in a small community, you may be able to afford a larger space in the local yellow pages. Instead of focusing on slogans and clip art, include information about your website in addition to your basic contact information. Many consumers appreciate the convenience of online business pages because they can visit anytime to find answers.

While you may not be able to afford ad space in Newsweek or the New York Times, don’t give up on mass media altogether. Take out advertisements featuring your company’s web address in your local newspaper or community publications. Partner with your local Better Business Bureau or Chamber of Commerce to spread the news about your company. If you submit press releases, be sure to include relevant information about your online presence and location.

If you can spare the expense, consider investing in analytic tools for your website. Most web hosting providers offer these services for an affordable monthly or quarterly rate. Website analytics allow you to identify and monitor patterns in website traffic and country of origin of visitors. This information will make it easier to identify whether or not your marketing efforts are generating interest from online users in your geographical region.

For consumers in rural or suburban areas, the idea of an independent, locally owned business is often enough to merit patronage. Including online marketing tools in your business approach doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice the friendly, personal touch or the small-town charm. You needn’t focus exclusively on one or the other. Instead, look for a middle ground that will allow you to broaden your company’s appeal. Make it easy for prospective customers to locate your business both online and in the community with an integrated marketing strategy.

In the future you may find yourself and your company ready and able to tackle the global market. For now, though, why not explore all of the opportunities that Internet marketing offers your small or growing business? Use the guidelines from this article as a starting point for the future success of yourself and your company. Within a few months or even weeks, you may notice significant increases in inquiries and site traffic.