New year, new internet? Well, the internet's changes may not be quite that dramatic. However, as we always say at the beginning of a new year, it's smart to look ahead and see what you need to watch out for. The surest way to succeed is to prepare, after all. From far-reaching Google updates to online behavioral trends, 2018 will see some major shifts that business owners will want to be aware of. While Prospect Genius doesn't have a crystal ball and can't make any guarantees, we're pretty … [Read more...] about Top 3 Online Marketing Changes You Need to Know in 2018
3 Errors New Businesses ALWAYS Make (And How to Fix Them)
For new businesses, there's a lot to do when you first set out on your venture. Unfortunately, there's no book or step-by-step guide that tells you everything you need. Sure, there are countless articles and e-books about the fundamentals, but the nitty-gritty stuff you have to do for your web presence often remains a guessing game. That's why it's so easy for new businesses to make mistakes when putting your company out there on the web. You're bound to hit some stumbling blocks as you go. … [Read more...] about 3 Errors New Businesses ALWAYS Make (And How to Fix Them)
Is Facebook Preparing to Take Over Google in Local Search?
We've lightly joked before that Facebook is the new Google. This is mainly because Facebook users are asking their social network for recommendations of local businesses rather than conducting their own searches on Google. However, as Wesley Young wrote in a recent article on Search Engine Land, Facebook has made several updates over the past couple of years that point to a greater focus on local businesses and places. In other words, it looks like Facebook is preparing to challenge Google's … [Read more...] about Is Facebook Preparing to Take Over Google in Local Search?
How to Compete on Social Media Without Spending a Dime
You've heard that social media—particularly Facebook—is vital for small, local business owners. But why? In many ways, social media has become its own form of search. Many people today search on Facebook before ever turning to Google when they're looking for a local business. They turn to their social network and ask for recommendations or referrals for whatever service they need. ("Can anyone recommend a good plumber in the Albany area?") For most people, it's easier to poll their friends and … [Read more...] about How to Compete on Social Media Without Spending a Dime
How to Use LinkedIn for Small Businesses
You've probably seen lots of chatter online about LinkedIn and why businesses should be using it. However, most of that advice is only applicable to big brands with even bigger budgets. It's not designed to help small, local businesses use LinkedIn to their advantage. As a result, many small businesses end up wasting a lot of time and money on LinkedIn because they're following the wrong advice. That's why we're writing this blog post. Considering that LinkedIn for small businesses is not a … [Read more...] about How to Use LinkedIn for Small Businesses
Three Tools to Vitalize Your Prospect Genius Campaign
Want more add-on options for your Prospect Genius campaign? Looking for ways to get more bang for your buck? Then, keep reading—because we have some great options for you. As you know, we're committed to growing with our clients. We aren't interested in quick fixes. Instead, we want long-term visibility and lead generation for you. That's why we're always evaluating our service offerings and updating them to fit our clients' evolving needs. As such, we're excited to discuss three tools that can … [Read more...] about Three Tools to Vitalize Your Prospect Genius Campaign
How to Get More Customer Reviews Just by Asking for Them
Your business can't have an effective online presence if it doesn't have any customer reviews. Why? Because when people are hiring a new business, they want to be sure they're making the right choice. Reading about other people's experiences helps them decide which business will best align with their needs. They'll be able to see which companies are pleasant to work with, which ones are punctual, which ones deliver good results, and so on. In fact, a 2016 Local Consumer Review Survey by … [Read more...] about How to Get More Customer Reviews Just by Asking for Them
Why Customer Service and Facebook Are a Brilliant Match
Local SEO isn't the only way to spread the good word about your business. Offering friendly, helpful customer service is a super-easy way to keep customers happy and strengthen word-of-mouth. After all, customers are much more likely to do repeat business with a company that provides superior customer service. So why not take this one step further and make your customer service efforts public? When you receive customer comments on social media, particularly Facebook, you can respond right there … [Read more...] about Why Customer Service and Facebook Are a Brilliant Match
Why Social Media for Small Businesses Is Essential
For businesses large and small, social media isn't optional anymore. It's essential. Does your business have a social media presence? If not, then you're missing out on a staggering number of benefits—benefits your competitors are probably enjoying as you read this. So, what are the benefits of social media for small businesses? How can you make the most of them? Keep reading to find out. Social Media Fosters Connection One of the biggest reasons for social media's rise has to do with how easily … [Read more...] about Why Social Media for Small Businesses Is Essential
Common Social Media Pitfalls to Be Aware Of
Today, in 2016, the importance of social media for local businesses has been well established. We all know it's a vital way for businesses to connect and engage with potential customers nearby. Ask any online advertiser, and they'll tell you the same thing. However, digital marketing strategist and author Roger Rogerson raises an incisive point: "Everyone is telling you to use social media – but who’s telling you to be careful?" In his recent article, "The Hidden Social Media Dangers for All … [Read more...] about Common Social Media Pitfalls to Be Aware Of