01. Introduction
May 22, 2009
According to the Office of Advocacy, there are over 27 million small businesses in the US. It’s a huge number, and yet most local businesses slip by undetected. Think of all the local businesses vying for the almighty consumer’s attention, then multiple it by the global market.
With little imagination it is safe to assume that local businesses face an uphill battle to get noticed. From the moment they open their doors the heat is on to do more with less. Owning a small business is not any easy path. Owners have to balance their talents, fight for exposure and attract new customers, all while providing a great product.
While Local Businesses may thrive because of craftsmanship, attention to detail and personalized service, it occurred to me that the majority of small businesses are awful at promoting their craft on the Web.
We can all recognize that being an amazing Electrician or Day Care Provider doesn’t automatically mean that you are also an adept marketer or salesperson. The same logic trickles down to the Web. Even if you are outgoing and confident, there are going to be online promotion hurdles. However, it doesn’t have to be as painful as most businesses make it for themselves.
In today’s market, the Web is spinning local business owners in circles. While the Web is seemingly filled with potential, local businesses put off launching their online communications or resist jumping on the Web entirely. Millions of intelligent capable professionals give up on their online marketing dreams and sidestep the opportunity. Even when small and medium sized businesses (SMBs) finally do make the leap they typically waffle with lack-luster results.
If you have your own business and are frustrated, disappointed or angry about your online efforts, you are not alone. Small businesses struggle to channel online traffic in dramatic contrast to the larger brands that regularly reap the benefits of online communications.
Whatever the reasons, the Web roadblock for local businesses is strikingly apparent. Local Businesses need the motivation & practical tactics to succeed online.
