I have investigated how to advertise locally with little or no money. It may not have been an option you have considered. Many people use search engines instead of printed directories or newspapers to search for local services and products, so even local businesses can benefit from having an Internet presence and engaging in online social networking. Here is how to get started.
Options:
- Get a listing on Google Places – you need to have a google account to do this. This is fast, free, and Google place listings almost always come up first in Google search results. Log into your account and then go to places.google.com/business.
- List your business on Yahoo. Like Google, Yahoo! Local listings will come up first when users who have Yahoo! as their search engine do a search for local services.
- Create listings on local search sites like Ananzi.co.za, searchza.com, saeverything.co.za.
- Advertise for free on yellowpages.com.Go to the site and click “advertise with us.”
- Set up accounts on Twitter and Facebook. These should be independent listings exclusively for your business, not based on your personal account. Be sure to list your full address. Keep your pages up to date by listing news, new products and services, sales and other events in a conversational way. Avoid spammy messages.
- Take out an ad on Craigslist.com. It’s completely free, and while it doesn’t offer a lot of flash or graphics, Craigslist is increasingly becoming a source for people searching for services and products.
- Create a website and a blog. Even a simple website is a source for listing your business’ name, location, and services that can be found by search engines. A blog can be updated regularly, giving you more chances for putting your name out on the Internet.
- Check out websites for your local Chamber of Commerce. These sites often feature a directory of local businesses. If there is not a way to automatically list your business, contact them via email or phone and ask how to be included.
I hope these are enough avenues to get you started with advertising locally for free. Please feel free to contact me should you require any assistance.