Last year we launched the Google Engage program to provide educational resources and training to help these organisations serve their clients better. Over the last two weeks more than 300 advertising, web design, and creative agencies attended our Google Engage for Agencies masterclass series to learn new techniques for helping their clients succeed in the digital world. At sessions held around the country in Brisbane, Perth, Melbourne, and Sydney, we brought the latest updates on Google advertising products like AdWords.
We opened the day with insights into the online behaviours of Australians, pointing out the explosive growth in mobile devices as Aussies access the internet while they’re on the go. Today only one out of five businesses with a website having a mobile-friendly version. Agencies can help small businesses ensure that their websites load properly on smartphones and tablets, make use of click-to-call links, and include critical info like store location and operating hours.
David Booth, a Google certified trainer from US-based digital agency Cardinal Path, then took the podium to share his more than 10 years of experience running an agency that manages online marketing campaigns for SMBs. He shared practical tips for how to improve a client’s return-on-investment from their advertising budget and gave advice on how to run your agency more efficiently.
We also introduced the audience to the brand new Pages for Google+ offering, which is a way for organisations to connect with other people, brands, and businesses online. Google Engage agencies including Reload Media and Eminent Online Marketing have been quick to start taking advantage of Google+, as well as small businesses such as DUGG, a mens underwear retailer.
Armed with new tips and tricks, the attendees are ready to go help Australian small businesses become even more effective in their online marketing. Going into 2012 we’ll be taking some of our training events to Hangouts on Google+ to speak with our Engage participants more frequently. Watch this space for updates.
Posted by Richard Flanagan, Head of Small Business Marketing, Google Australia & New Zealand