There are many options and opinions on how you should be investing your money when it comes to online marketing. At the same time, there is always a risk of spreading yourself too thin. Wherever you decide to target your efforts, always make sure you do your research and make the most out of the available resources.

Advertising in online directories, such as FranchiseBusiness.com.au, is one of the many great options you can choose from if you want to build your business presence in the World Wide Web.

Here are some top tips to help you maximise your online business profile and choose the right online directory service.

Choosing the right online directory for your business

There are many online directories you can choose to join, however not all of them offer the same breadth and depth of services and may not provide you with the most effective online coverage or generate the most leads for your business.

Ultimately, it comes down to raising your business’ online profile and increasing your sales. Make sure you select a directory that is widely used by a range of advertisers and companies, which would help attract more visitors to your business profile.

When you choose an industry specific directory, your advertising can be much more targeted. Web searchers and customers alike know they can visit an industry specific directory that can help them research products and deliver the services they need – all in the one familiar place.

A directory that only advertises businesses in your industry have more of a chance being found in Google search results. This is because industry specific directories actively use Search Engine Optimisation (SEO), which targets keywords that are commonly searched by customers, clients and potential visitors.

An online directory that continually uses SEO can help boost your business’ online exposure and give it the best chance possible of being seen at the top of Google and other search engine results.

Keeping your content fresh

Other than keeping your business information and contact details up to date in your listing, you can consider adding another level of content to make your profile exciting, interesting and inviting.

Depending on the services provided by your online directory, you can consider adding images of your products or even include articles about your business and your services. You can even consider creating different deals in your listing to let potential clients and franchisees know your business profile is active with the latest information.

Regularly updated content helps reassure potential customers of your business’ credibility and also gives your profile an SEO boost.  Search engines thrive on fresh and regularly updated content!

Is it worth upgrading to a paid listing?

Many online directories offer free business listings, which is a great advantage for all – especially for businesses on a tight budget.  However if you take the initiative to invest in a paid listing, you will notice the many benefits that will come to your business. A paid listing gives your business a higher chance of attracting attention away from your competition and giving you a better opportunity of conversion.

Research and compare the services you gain when you sign up to a paid listing.  Consider whether you are able to showcase more services or bring more attention to your current showcases by paying for advertising. Is there opportunity for more exposure to your logo and website on more pages? Does your business profile rank higher on search engines if you pay more? Do you have more options for creativity in your advertising, such as including videos or other interactive media?

Don’t be afraid to ask these types of questions! They can help you assess whether upgrading to a paid listing is right for your business and whether the investment would really maximise your online business profile.