September 2004
It's an increasingly common misconception these days to think that online presence means you have to have a website. Small building companies may never have considered creating a website, with the majority of new business historically being won by word of mouth or recommendation. But what about current consumer trends?

As more and more people get ‘online' in the UK this means that there are naturally more people searching for products and services over the Internet – in fact 159 million online searches for businesses are taking place monthly in the UK!* So, how does the small locally based builder make its services stand out from other companies?

Online and print information provider Thomson Directories can now provide sole traders and small businesses, such as builders, with the ideal solution. ‘Business Finder' offers builders a choice of two online advertising packages, which can be purchased for specific building related headings nationally or in selected geographical areas. Builders advertising on the Business Finder service can be promoted on ThomsonLocal.com and its extensive partner network including Yahoo! UK and Ireland , Wanadoo and Ask Jeeves,where the builder's full business name, contact details, a map, website link and email contact form, if available, will be displayed..

Faiz Rehman , Internet Marketing Manager said: “The increase in Internet usage by consumers to find the right product and service is driving many small businesses to consider what online options there are. With Business Finder, they can be listed with us and our partners without necessarily going down the route of creating a website. The Business Finder package really helps to support small businesses and sole traders in a cost-effective way. It really is easy for them.”

“It's a great way for builders to increase enquiries and sales leads without worrying about producing and hosting a website.” Added Rehman.

For further information please contact our press office.