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I'm advertising for a bunch of targetted keywords but there's very little traffic to be had.
I tried getting broader keywords, but they were declined in overture because the event is regional.
I don't have much flexibility with the site.
Any ideas/reccommendations on how to get more exposure for this event?
I could:
1. Add even more small targetted keywords
2. Try to be sneaky and get them to approve the broader keywords
Don't know what else. Ideas or suggestions would be appreciated.
Being both regional and time sensitive Search Engines may not be your best bet. On any given day, the vast majority of traffic is outside of you immediate region therefore returns are likely less appealing.
Local ads may be better, local directories, newspapers, chamber of commerce, city or town web site, almost all business sites and most anything else where the bulk of the traffic is "regionalized".
Many of these are also free of charge for non-profit and charity organizations.
If you have already saturated your local community, start approaching communities within driving distance of the event.
The traffic potential is a great deal less, but the targeted audience is substantially more.
You can also use the overture and wordtracker (trial version 'cause it's free) keyword suggestion tools to help you find some keywords you might not have thought of before.
Also check to see if your region has a local city website. (i.e cincinnati.com, cleveland.com, buffalo.com) or an arts and entertainment site. Some of them will have events listings that you can submit for free or for a nominal fee. It's a great way to get info to your local audience over the web.
You cant rely on the search engines for publicising a local event.
Your website will be more of a information reference that people will use after they find out about the event.
Make sure your URL features strongly on any media advertising you do ("check out our website for more info").
Just step back and think where your local community would go to try and find out about local events.
A large percentage will be the local free paper. Make sure you get listings in the appropriate edition, and also contact them personally ask for them to print a feature article about the event (which they write or you do - but try to get them to do it!;)).
Regional / Local website - get listings and also try to focus on "up and coming events sections".
Library - it will have an events noticeboard and perhaps even a newsletter that you could get featured on.
Leaflets - if you have some leaflets printed up, make sure the URL features fairly strongly (perhaps note what additional information is available on the website). Leave them around local businesses (cafes, restaurants, theatres, cinemas, video stores, banks, estate agents, bus stations, etc etc). Same goes for posters if your budget will run to it.
best of luck!:)
JOAT
