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?
One Major Reason Your Paid Ads Aren’t Getting You Results
Are you DIY-ing your company's paid ads and getting frustrated by your lack of results? You probably started a campaign on Facebook or Google expecting to drive tons of visitors to your website—or, better yet, to generate a slew of new customers. However, for some reason, you're just not getting the results you were hoping for. Worst of all, the cost of your ads keeps going up! You feel like you're dumping your business's hard-earned cash down the drain. Why is this happening? To answer … [Read more...] about One Major Reason Your Paid Ads Aren’t Getting You Results
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
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
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?
Which of These Online Marketing Strategies Will Be Your Next Step?
"What are the best next steps for my marketing?" This is a question we hear a lot from our clients. As your small business's online marketing campaign flourishes, it's natural to wonder what you can do to multiply your success. Regardless of which online marketing strategy from Prospect Genius you're currently using, there's a way for you to keep climbing the ladder, if that's what you want. Of course, what you do next depends largely on what you've already done. You can't just start hiking … [Read more...] about Which of These Online Marketing Strategies Will Be Your Next Step?
HomeAdvisor Isn't Doing Enough for Your Web Presence
Are you one of the countless small business owners who pay a directory like HomeAdvisor, Angie's List, or Thumbtack? We don't blame you. When you're actively using them, paid directory services can be super helpful in producing leads for your company. Because you're getting leads on a somewhat regular basis, some business owners make the mistake of only using a directory. They never end up investing in any other form of web presence, like their own website. Unfortunately, not owning any type of … [Read more...] about HomeAdvisor Isn't Doing Enough for Your Web Presence