2 Reasons Free Directory Sites Are Just Not Enough
In a recent discussion with a tradesman friend of mine, we covered the merits and demerits of directory sites as opposed to unique and personalised business sites. The question went something like, "why bother with your own, stand-alone website, when you can get onto a directory site, and often for free?"
There are two issues I wish to address here. The first is the SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) benefits of directory sites, the second is the necessity of being a stand out in your marketing.
As in any marketing strategy, you are never going to rely on just one channel of communication. However most of the time, small business owners and the self employed do not devote much attention to marketing, they probably don't have the time.
1. Free directory sites can be great if they are really free. Some will provide basic information but require payment to get your website listed. It is this linking that is the payoff for your SEO efforts, as others sites linking to your site is very helpful for building your ranking.
2. Being remarkable in your promotional efforts is so important. As discussed, the directory sites can be great, but you can easily be lost in the crowd of other product and service providers who are doing exactly the same thing. So much of a company's success is not so much bound up in the superiority of their product, but in the superiority of their marketing. It is the company that best markets itself, that stays in the front of the consumer's mind, that will win the day. Its not necessarily fair, but that's the way it is, and that's the game you have to play.
For more information about improving your online communications, contact us - info@thompsonmarketing.com.au
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C.S. Thompson is an online communications specialist whose firm focussed on targeted marketing communications delivered primarily via electronic media. Based in Sydney, Australia, Thompson Marketing Consultants delivers results for customers via effective and well managed websites, email marketing campaigns, social media strategy and marketing planning. Find out more at http://www.thompsonmarketing.com.au
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/
Added: April 24, 2008
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