Adwords as a lead generation tool

I’m often asked by small businesses if I know where they can buy a mailing list so they can try and generate some leads. My feeling is that this is a bit like throwing jelly at a wall and hoping some of it might stick. It’s so unlikely that anyone is a) going to open an unsolicited email and b)respond favourably if they do, that I would say ‘save your money and spend it on something more effective’.  (more…)

What would happen if your website and emails went offline?

Don’t find out the hard way! Recently I had a text telling me that my website and emails were down. Luckily it was a Sunday and I was able to rectify it pretty quickly (after I had kicked myself for being so lax!) I am ashamed to admit that my domain name registration had expired and because I set it up a few years ago, the email address they had been using to remind me and prompt a renewal was one I no longer use.

The most common reason for websites going offline is that either the domain name registration or the hosting agreement has expired. So how can you avoid this happening to you? (more…)

Online Directories – FREE advertising

There are a lot of directory sites that provide local business listings. If you run a business or service that falls into a recognisable category e.g. “hairdresser” or “accountant” you should take full advantage of these as they are very effective and often appear on the first page of search engine results. (more…)