Google tools
Google offer a number of free low cost online marketing tools. If you’re thinking of using more than one of them, sign up for a free Google account so you can access them via one unique login for your business or website.
- Google Analytics: Google Analytics is a program that helps you understand what keywords are being used to find your website, what your site’s most popular pages are, and how many people are visiting them. It’s easy to use and provides the data in a number of ways.
- Google Local Business Center: Previously known as Google Maps, the Google Local Business Center is ideal for those businesses with a very local and specific target audience. You’ve probably noticed that your own use of search engines has become narrower and more local over time. After all, why search for a cleaner in Melbourne when you really want someone around the corner from you in Preston? Having a local business listing will allow you to tap into that trend. Incidentally, Google are not the only ones who offer this service – it’s also worthwhile listing your business with Yahoo Local.
Referral networks
Word of mouth referrals are a hot topic on Flying Solo and an essential part of marketing for any small business. A number of websites have been set up to link buyers and sellers of products and services. Some sites are completely free for both the seller and buyer; some charge the seller to receive leads, and others operate on a territory-based model. If nothing else, most are free to join and are worth investigating further. Here are some sites to consider:
- For B2C referrals: My favourite is Word of Mouth on the Web, a place where people share their opinions and experiences about various businesses. There is an advertising package available, but by asking your customers to review your business you can get a listing at no cost. Other options to investigate include Service HQ and Bid My Loan.
- For B2B referrals: ifindconsultants
Free PR
SourceBottle is a website that enables journalists to find information, case studies and interviewees for stories they’re working on. For small business owners, it’s free to join and gives you a direct way to liaise with the media. Set up an account and media requests from journalists are emailed direct to your inbox twice a day.
When it comes to marketing, everybody loves a freebie! What’s your favourite low cost online marketing tool?
“ When it comes to marketing, everybody loves a freebie! ”
Jo Macdermott from Next Marketing works with Business Owners in Melbourne who require ongoing Marketing support. If you are a Business Owner with a Marketing budget who is too busy to ‘get around to marketing’ then Jo Macdermott is here to help. Jo specialises in tactical Marketing plans that are pragmatic and make a lot of business sense.
