Google's new slogan should be, "Helping Goliath pummel David." If you’ve been following this blog for a while, then you already know how we feel about Google and their reckless behavior towards the little guy. But for newcomers, here's a quick recap: Google’s motivation will always be to maximize profits for themselves. This runs in direct opposition to the best interests of small businesses that can't spend a fortune advertising themselves online. And it's getting worse. Now, with … [Read more...] about How Google’s Greed Is Slashing Your Website Traffic
When Is the Best Time to Use Facebook Ads Versus Google AdWords?
You've probably noticed that organic search results pages are getting harder and harder to rank on. (This is mostly due to Google's quest to monetize every inch of space on Page 1, but that's a rant for another day...) As a result, many business owners are trying paid ads, instead. Most people are using either Facebook Ads or Google AdWords (or both). If you've tried this alternative yourself, we don't blame you. It's a smart move! However, if you're going to start a paid ad … [Read more...] about When Is the Best Time to Use Facebook Ads Versus Google AdWords?
If You Don’t Promote Your Summertime Services Now, You’ll Hate Yourself Later
Now that summer is only a month away, let's talk about how you want to promote your summertime services. We need to start looking at what you can do right now to boost your bookings this summer. Especially since your competitors probably aren't planning ahead—which gives you an edge. This post will arm you with some strategy ideas to help you book better jobs this season. Let's jump in! How to Book Better Jobs Than Your Competitors This Summer The truth is, most people don’t plan ahead. … [Read more...] about If You Don’t Promote Your Summertime Services Now, You’ll Hate Yourself Later
What You Need to Know About Google AdWords Billing
If you're confused by the way Google bills you for AdWords, you're not alone. Not even a little. We have countless clients who feel like the Google AdWords billing system is overly complicated. We don't blame them. Why can't it just be a bill for the same amount on the same date every month—you know, the way practically every other company in existence does its billing? If we were conspiracy theorists, we'd be tempted to think Google confuses AdWords customers on purpose so they spend more … [Read more...] about What You Need to Know About Google AdWords Billing
Facebook Costs Less Than AdWords, But Is It Better?
It's no secret that paid ads are a great way to inject some power into your online marketing efforts. But whether it's a PPC (pay-per-click) campaign from Google AdWords or a social media campaign from Facebook Ads, you need to be using the platform that best aligns with your business's needs. This is where most people get stuck. If you're struggling to decide between Google AdWords and Facebook Ads, there are two things you need to know: Facebook costs less than Google AdWords by a … [Read more...] about Facebook Costs Less Than AdWords, But Is It Better?
How to Start Promoting Holiday Services in October (and Why You Should)
Do you have a plan yet for capitalizing on the holiday season? We know, we know: "It's only October!" But we all know the holidays have a way of sneaking up on us before we're ready. This year, why not plan ahead? That's why we put together this quick guide to help you jump-start your winter advertising early. By following our suggestions in this blog post, you'll promote your seasonal services and set yourself up for a busy, fruitful winter. (Better stock up on coffee now!) Why Market Seasonal … [Read more...] about How to Start Promoting Holiday Services in October (and Why You Should)
How Do You Choose Between Facebook Ads and Google AdWords?
If you're one of our clients, then you've heard us talk about the advantages of paid advertising. In fact, you're almost certainly sick of hearing about how advertising on Google AdWords and Facebook can be super-effective ways to reach a wider audience. However, in all our talk about these two platforms, we rarely get into how you should choose between them. After all, most local businesses don't have room in their budgets to advertise on both platforms. So, when it comes down to Facebook Ads … [Read more...] about How Do You Choose Between Facebook Ads and Google AdWords?
Facebook Ads Are the Flexible, Affordable Tool You Need
Are you thinking about layering some social media on top of your existing marketing program? Would you like to connect with customers beyond your campaign's currently targeted location? No matter what's driving you to consider expanding your reach or growing your audience, Facebook Ads are a great option. A budget-friendly alternative to Google AdWords and other PPC options, Facebook Ads offer tremendous flexibility. You can use them for virtually anything: seasonal promotions, important company … [Read more...] about Facebook Ads Are the Flexible, Affordable Tool You Need
5 Examples of Google Not Caring About Your Best Interests
How many times have you heard Google claim its most recent update is designed to improve user experience? We hear this claim so frequently, it's fair to call it Google's M.O. However, when Google refers to users, is it really referring to advertisers? The truth is, for many users—particularly small business owners who seek local visibility on Google—their best interests often do not align with Google's. At the end of the day, it's a corporation, and its bottom line is all about revenue. You have … [Read more...] about 5 Examples of Google Not Caring About Your Best Interests
Are You Using the Best PPC Strategy for Your Marketing Goal?
What's your goal for your small business's online marketing? This is an essential question to ask yourself before you embark on any particular campaign. Why? Because, without establishing what you want out of it, you may end up going with the wrong strategy, and ultimately wasting your money. This is especially true for your PPC strategy, which generally involves a substantial investment. So, what's your goal? Is it: To get lots of calls right now? To have a steady stream of calls over … [Read more...] about Are You Using the Best PPC Strategy for Your Marketing Goal?