Internet Marketing in 2008

By Gianna Bruno

           Internet marketing is becoming a more predominate tool to help franchisors get more qualified leads. When potential franchisees are looking for a business opportunity or a franchise opportunity to buy, 95% of them look to the Internet for information and ideas.  As a result, franchisors are increasingly utilizing the power of the Internet to market franchise opportunities.  When looking at marketing your franchise opportunity on the Web, consider: your Internet budget, Internet portals vs. Franchise Brokers, and getting the highest ROI for your investment.

            Most companies under spend their marketing budget.  This is a common, but crucial mistake.  In order for your company to get on the map, you must spend money to get money in return.  With that in mind, you also need to spend your money wisely.  For 2008, spending franchise money includes Internet portals.  Make your marketing budget last for the entire year; buy also make your budget work for you.  Under spending your marketing budget can have devastating affects on your franchise development outcome. 

            Internet portals vs. Franchise Brokers is something that you will come across when looking to advertise your franchise.  Both avenues have pros and cons; however Internet portals are becoming more predominate in the franchise industry.  Studies show that 70% of franchisors use Internet portals to advertise their opportunities, while 2.3% use print ads and 30% use franchise brokers.  Internet portals are becoming an easy and inexpensive way to market your franchise opportunity.  40% of companies advertise on 2-4 different Internet portals.  This is a growing numbers that will continue to climb. 

            Getting the highest ROI is every business owner’s goal.  Using Internet portals will allow for an easier ROI because the cost of Internet leads is extremely reasonable.  Currently in 2007 most franchise leads are being generated by Internet portals.  Using a franchise broker to market you franchise opportunity is definitely an option, however it is more cost effective to market your franchise opportunity through internet portals such as The Business Market. 

            Marketing, budgeting, and executing your franchise opportunity will be on your mind with the start of 2008 quickly approaching.  Marketing your franchise on an Internet portal will allow for better success.  The Internet is a useful tool that can be viewed worldwide.  With most franchisors adapting to using online advertisements, it might be worthwhile to invest more marketing dollars in Internet portals than in business brokers. 

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