This is where I keep links to my most important Local Internet Marketing tools and resources, for quick access, as well as a reminder of what needs to get done. You may notice, most of these tools cost less than $20 per month, many are free.
You’ll want to bookmark it now and return often, since I add new resources all the time.
BLOG BUILDING
Ready to build a new blog site or take yours to the next level? I’m sure you’ll find at least one awesome new tool here.
Bust-a-Name – the easiest, most powerful domain name brainstorming tool in the world, in my humble opinion (FREE)
GoDaddy – low-cost, dependable Wordpress blog hosting and domain registration
($9 per year domains and $9 per month hosting)
LivePerson – the best value in live chat online customer service software ($49 per year)
PAID SEARCH
Google Adwords – The largest paid search program, so it can deliver more traffic to you. However, it is more competitive, so the bids are a little more expensive for comparable keywords and positions.
Yahoo Paid Search – The #2 paid search program is cheaper and easier to set up than Google Adwords.
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Need a new or refreshed logo? These are some of the best values I’ve found.
LogoWorks by HP ($299)
EMAIL MARKETING
These services will help you capture new subscribers and convert them into valuable repeat customers using their automatic follow-up systems.
Constant Contact ($15 per month, 60-day free trial)
Aweber ($19 per month, 30-day free trial)
InfusionSoft ($199 per month) – turbocharged tool for very active email marketers
SCREENCASTING
Capture your on-screen PC activity in a video. Great for presentations and software or web site tutorials
CamStudio (FREE)
Camtasia ($299)
OFFLINE MARKETING
You know I’m a Web guy, but I still believe the best local marketing plans include some form of offline marketing. Here are a few ideas for you…
PrintPlace – best value online for postcards, business cards, brochures, etc.
SmileMakers by Staples – imprintable marketing giveaways (tchotchkes) for dentists, chiropractors, teachers, pastors, hair stylists, dance instructors, restaurants, and more.
ADMINISTRATIVE
I couldn’t think of a better name for this category. I figured “administrative” sounded better than “miscellaneous”.
eVoice – smart virtual voicemail with extensions, professionally recorded human greeting, 95-seat conference calling, toll-free number, and more. ($10 per month)
