Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Marketing Your Business Online

I think most helping professionals don't think about marketing. Many aren't comfortable promoting themselves. I think of marketing as a reflection of your ideas and thoughts to others that may be able to use the information. Market by giving something away - your ideas on certain issues, symptoms, problems, etc.

One of the ways I have used to market is by creating a website a year ago. I have been surprised how many people are starting to use the internet to find counselors. People have liked reading my bio, seeing my picture, and reading my articles. I am finding that there is a lot that contributes to being found in a Google search (but that I will leave to the experts).

However, you don't have to have a website to be found on the internet. Do you have a business that your potential clients will search for online? If so, here are several places to list your business for FREE:

1. Google maps
2. Smart pages
3. Yellow pages
4. Yahoo
5. Merchant Circle

Being self-employed is a big commitment, and I imagine you have a valuable service that could benefit people. Once you realize you have something valuable to offer others, wouldn't you want people to be able to find it?

1 comment:

Paul W Anderson, PhD said...

Nice looking blog, Marci. And on a terrifically important topic , I think for today's mental health practitioners.

I have been practicing as a psychologist in KS and Mo in the KC area since 1981 and things sure have changed. Not only have I had a full practice (http:www.netPsychologist.com) without being on insurance panels, but referrals have shifted from word of mouth to web based referrals. So, I have had to learn how to market on line in order to survive.

To your list above of "free listing places" I'd add get a web site. It is possible to get a free one here (http:www.atcounseling.com). Keep up the good work.