How to Advertise Locally Online

While the Internet is a powerful marketing resource for businesses because it opens the door to a world of potential customers, some businesses may not be able to serve a worldwide market. In these instances, the Internet can still be used to reach a local market. By using marketing techniques specific to local markets, you can take advantage of the power of the Internet without promoting to a wider market than your business is capable of servicing.

Instructions

1. Write an advertisement that has a local slant. This means composing an ad that addresses potential customers from your area. Be sure to include a reference in the ad that specifies you only serve local customers because even if you use local online methods of advertising, anyone on the Internet still has the ability to access your ads.

2. Locate your advertisement sources. Local newspapers often have online versions of the newspaper with all the sections, including advertising. Another source for advertising locally is Craigslist, which allows you to tailor your advertising to individual cities.

3. List your business with free local business advertising services such as Yahoo! Local Listings, Locals.com and Yellowpages.com. These websites allow you to enter basic information about your business, which will automatically be pulled up when someone in your area searches for the type of service or product you sell.

4. Submit your advertisements to the Web sources you've selected. Do this by visiting the website and signing up if required. With Craigslist, an account is required. Local newspaper websites don't normally require signing up for an account. The information you enter is kept private, except for the information you place in the ad.

References

• Wall Street Journal: Media and Marketing
• Entreprenuer: 15 Sites for Promoting Your Online Business

Resources

• Craigslist