pageoneresults - 11:22 pm on Mar 29, 2006 (gmt 0)

Having an ad on a site that the users trust can lend more credibility to your own site.

Most definitely and trust is one of those top factors for local buyers.

Take care of them first time around and the ball starts rolling from there.

"Hey Mick, where'd ya get that from?"

"Oh, go to dubdubdub..."

Another thing about Ads. You can't just run them once or for short periods. Longer durations, multiple ads, 3, 6, 9 months, etc. When it comes to traditional marketing in magazines and such, you typically run the ad from 4-6 times before seeing the results, it's that trust factor you mention.

If the subscriber sees the ad in one issue, they may think nothing of it. If they see it again in another issue, it might catch their attention. Third issue, their looking to see where you are. Fourth issue, their calling to learn more about the product or they are online reviewing your website. Fifth issue, their probably ready to buy and they've already familiarized themselves with your company and product. Here come the sales!

Operator, this is an emergency!

There's an old disco song with that phrase. It just came to mind as I was thinking about operators on duty. Local buyers want more of a personal touch. You'd be suprised at the sheer number of locals who are going to pick up the phone and call you as opposed to using the website. We still haven't made that transition into a total trust environment and there is a generation out there that absolutely needs to talk to a real live person during normal working hours.

Put those phone numbers in the visitor's face and make sure you have someone answering the phones during the times you specify. And yes, you'll want to list your hours of operation along with your daily time schedule. If you are open on weekends, THAT IS A BIG PLUS!

Think about adding a LiveChat feature. Yes, they do work and visitors better see you online during the hours you say your online. Repeat visitors will notice and will use the interface if they have a question.