I've started working on a couple of local search sites. Right now there are just link directories, but I hope to expand on the information they offer (current weather, news, etc...).
I'm looking for marketing techniques that others have used to promote local information sites (off-line too). What have you found that works/doesn't work?
I don't have a lot of money to spend on marketing, so I'm looking for a return on investment at least. The sites sell featured links at the top of categories, there are image ads that appear at the top and bottom of every page, and I'm making some products (CafePress) to have available through the site.
I'm working on a third local seach site for a friend (in another state) and he has placed an ad in his local chamber of commerce newsletter. I think this helps get the word out, but it's just a beginning.
Advertising in local daily newspapers, classifieds and travel magazines might help. Travel magazines might be the most helpful as yours is a local search site. Also keep some business cards with you, give your card to people whom you know very well. Ask your friends and relatives to spread the word for your site to the people they know.
All good ideas. Also look into having some stickers made with the site address printed on them, to distribute to people in the area. GetBandStuff.com has rather good prices imo. Also, as things begin to grow, look into exchanging advertising with a few (smaller) local businesses.
