A recent survey from MerchantCircle found that local businesses are flocking to internet marketing techniques this year, and search marketing is cited as the top avenue for reaching an online audience. In spite of the bevy of new platforms available to brands, local marketers say tried-and-true online approaches (such as search) are the best methods.
The survey shows that local marketers are interested in low-cost online marketing tactics that offer them immediate results. Even though mobile marketing and group buying are generating buzz, local marketers are investing in traditional internet strategies this year.
When asked about the top marketing methods for local businesses, 40 percent of respondents say search is best. With this in mind, marketers might consider optimizing their sites to catch clicks from nearby searchers.
Tied for local marketers' second-preferred online marketing methods are email and social media, each cited by 36 percent of respondents. Social media marketing is on the rise, according to the survey. Seventy percent of local marketers now use social channels.
Facebook proved the top social network for local marketing, used by 70 percent of respondents. Notably, this put Mark Zuckerberg's social network ahead of Google, which is used by 66 percent of respondents.
A recent Google development may help the search giant win more social-conscious marketing partners. As Brafton reported earlier today, the company announced it is updating its Social Search options, enabling users to see results generated by friends as well as friend-recommended results.
