Studies have found that web-based tools drive business growth.  Even through the economic turmoil lately, small businesses are starting to see a turnaround and looking forward to a stronger period of growth in 2010.  Traditional marketing methods are still commonplace.  But, businesspeople who are expecting to grow their business in the next year are focusing more of their attention to online marketing.  What are the best web-based tools to use?  Email marketing, social media/networking and search engine marketing. 

1. Email Marketing - This includes newsletters, ezines and contact management.  It is important to use email to try to tap those potential clients.  But, it's equally important not to lose sight of those past clients who have brought you to the point you are today.  Contact management is key for this.  Providing up-to-the-minute information about the local real estate market through newsletters and ezines gives past, present and future clients a glimpse of your knowledge and experience.
2. Social Media/Networking - Gone are the days where the only people you meet and interact with are the people in your local community.  Social media has redefined "networking" on a global scale.  Networking with others on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Plaxo, etc. allows you to reach out with other colleagues as well as current and potential clients.  This is especially important when you consider that the three major search engines (Yahoo!, Google and Bing) have determined that social media is so important, they need to crawl Twitter to keep up-to-date on the latest news.  Social media is not a fad...it's here to stay.
3. Search Engine Marketing - With more and more buyers turning to the internet to find their next home, you want your website to be the one they see.  Marketing your site to the search engines will help you rise in the searches for your relevant keywords and help drive traffic to your site and you.

In today's economic climate, it's important to use web-based tools to drive your business growth.  If you need help with your email, search engine or social media marketing, please contact me today.  We make it our business to make your business shine.

Pamela Cendejas, Real Estate Virtual Assistant - Second Self Virtual Assistance: When There Isn't Enough of You to Go Around!