The Correlation Between Marketing and Web 2.0 for Real Estate
October 14th, 2008 by DamonYou’ve heard things about Web 2.0. But mostly, all you’ve probably heard are people throwing around the term like they know what it means. There are debates going on about Web 2.0, but even those who conceptualize it don’t know for sure what it is. They can’t give limits, clear definitions, and such. If there’s one thing clear about this new Web, it is its efficiency as a marketer. Businesses are using the new Web platform to promote their services and products. Ingenuity at its finest and simplest.
Why Web 2.0 Marketing?
Well, it makes sense for starters. Let’s look at a rundown of the general characteristics it is supposed to have. First, it’s interactive, which means that web pages are no longer static and they don’t take a million years to load anymore. They have applets, pop-ups, and wikis that actually let users play a game, get product information, and contact customer service quickly.
Web 2.0 Fosters User/Consumer Participation
Instead of just reading information and reviews posted on the websites, people can write their own reviews on Web 2.0 platforms. This gives the idea that rather than being plain promotions, these reviews are from people who actually used the product. Consumers don’t readily trust online promotions but if they actually wrote a review for a product, there’s no reason not to believe what others say about other products. Thus, there is instant trust online.
Broadband Internet Encourages People to Use Computers and Stay Online Longer
Statistics show that more and more people are using computers for tasks that they normally use a paper and pen for since Web 2.0 came along. Planning, organizing, filing taxes, and even banking. What’s more is that they are also using computers for errands like shopping. For businesses using Web marketing, this translates to a larger consumer base.
Web 2.0 Marketing is Cheaper Than Traditional Marketing Options
If you’re familiar with ActiveRain.com, Myspace.com, or Facebook.com, try looking up the RE/MAX, Century21, or ERA — they all have their own account. There are millions of people connected to these different social networking platforms.
Of course, Web 2.0 does not eliminate the traditional forms of marketing such as flyers, networking, and sales calls. But why not invest time in a cost effective and more efficient marketing option while you’re at it? Web 2.0 isn’t just a buzzword, it’s a revolutionary concept that you should be implementing in your overall marketing plan.
