The internet has been a goldmine for connecting with national and international affiliates, customers and resources. Businesses, especially small ones, have really benefited from this fact, and building quality links has never been easier thanks to social media. It is just a standard of marketing these days, and simple enough to accomplish.
But that doesn’t include local marketing for local-based blogs. This is a process that most find a bit more daunting, and certainly more difficult. However, it is really not much different than targeting a demographic based on other factors, like gender, age or socioeconomic status. You just need to know some of the ways a blog can properly outreach to those in their own area.
Don’t underestimate the power of local blogging though. According to Richard of VIP Realty Dallas, it’s been by far the most efficient way to get targeted locally-oriented traffic. This article is another proof of that. And this one outlines some problems while still claiming it’s HUGE!
Here are some ideas to get you started.
- Remember: Social Media Is a Driving Force Everywhere.
- When it comes down to it, your best source of outreach is always going to be social media. Facebook, Twitter and Google+ are great for connecting with local readers and keeping them engaged. Sites like StumbleUpon are good for introducing your site to others both local and beyond. Then there is LinkedIn, which is fantastic for networking with other professionals in your area in a variety of niches. Then, of course, there are sites like YouTube, Vimeo, Pinterest and others that can give you another platform to attract attention and link to your blog. Try to really take advantage of social media as a multifaceted marketing campaign.
- Take Advantage Of The Community Factor. Do you run a blog about food? Check out that new sushi place that opened up downtown, or that off-beat little greasy spoon you have been hearing about for ages. You have an opportunity to connect with your local area as a local blogger, which means being a part of the community. Take advantage of that fact and start getting out there to right about local people, places and events. This will automatically give you a local advantage and begin to carve out a more stable demographic to market to.
- Traditional Marketing Methods Still Work. Business cards and gifts should be in the arsenal of every blogger, regardless of niche. While the marketing world has changed a great deal thanks to the focus on the web side of things, it hasn’t changed entirely. There are still traditional methods that work wonders. Giving a handshake, passing along a business card with your site name and giving a little free gift like a pen can make a big difference. Especially when networking with potential affiliates. Which brings us to the next tip…
- Link To Other Local Affiliates. There are plenty of sites that will provide links to local blogs. Newspaper or local media sites are a great option, as is the official tourist site for your area. Local businesses might also provide a link on their site if you are in a related field and provide something such as a review or advertisement in return. Start putting together a list of local affiliates you might be able to connect to, and then make that connection.
- Try and Get In With Local Media. This is a bit different than finding affiliates. I am speaking more here about public access shows, local podcasts and radio stations. These can be a huge boon for the local blogger, and many of these sources will happily include you in links on their sites. If you have the money you can even buy advertising space or a bump from a station.
- Find Other Local Bloggers.
Want a free way to connect more with the local scene? Then go with other bloggers in your area. Not only is this a great way to promote one another’s sites, but it offers guest blogging opportunities, collaborations and even meetups. One of my favorite tools for this is Placeblogger. But a Google search can help you find other locals as well