How to promote your Australian business using an online business directory...

You may have great cash flow, more than enough investment and one of the most innovative business concepts to hit the market since sliced bread... but promoting your business is one of the most difficult aspects for any entrepreneur to master. How do you let people know your business exists, and how do you target people that actually need to know that your business exists? It’s all good paying a 12 year old kid to walk around the neighborhood delivering leaflets about your bouncy castle service. But what percentage of people down Old Oak Drive have young children?

It’s all about targeting people that might be interested in your business, not going out fishing and hoping one bites.

Luckily for you the Internet, which is now so huge you can’t afford to ignore it; has many great opportunities for promoting your business, whether it actually is a website or a run of the mill local business. The easiest and most effective method is using an online business directory. 

Like a standard business directory you might get posted through your door, or find in the local newspaper, an online business directory lists several categories of business and then in each category it lists specific names and details. Below are several tips for promoting your business using an online business directory.

Website...
Firstly you’ll need a website. That doesn’t mean you have to run your business online and spend a fortune on new computer equipment. It simply means you need a page or two explaining your business in full, your corporate aims and objectives, and any promotional information you feel relevant. You can get a professionally made website created for under $200, but be sure to stay away from flashy animated sites. They cost more and can harm your search engine rankings. Listing in an online business directory doesn’t allow a long description, but does allow a link to your site where you can describe until your heart’s content.

Get Searching...
Now you need to find a quality directory, so hit Google or your favorite search engine. First begin with your hometown, region, state or country and search, for example “Australian Business Directory.” You may want to be specific, such as “bouncy castle business directory.” Just play around until you’ve compiled a list relevant to you.

Free or Paid?...
Next you need to decide whether you are willing to pay or go free. Many directories offer paid for listings that put you on top of your category or feature you on the main page. This gives your business better exposure.

Unique Description...
A lot of people list their business with a generic and bland description, which defeats the whole purpose of getting listed in an online business directory. You need to sell yourself. A good tip is to browse other businesses like yours and try to improve on their descriptions. Mention a special offer, or that you are different in some way.

Title or Keyword...
A lot of people try to list their business with a keyword for a title (which is good for search engine rankings), but not good for brand awareness. You may want to use your name and a keyword filled slogan, e.g. “Tech Zone – computer electronics store.”

These are just a few tips for using an online business directory. They may seem trivial to some, but finding a good and relevant online business directory could be the difference between 10 sales a week and 15 sales a week. You should be trying to squeeze out every last sale possible and directories can help.

When it comes time to find the best online business directory in Australia, visit Linkwizz (www.linkwizz.com.au) ...our specialist business directory, used cars classifieds and new cars classifieds are an ideal way to advertise your business online – Linkwizz is simple, straightforward and easy to promote your business, and buy or sell used or new cars online.