A recent survey conducted by FirstMalta.com among small business owners shows that 65 per cent of small businesses (defined as employing less than 10 people) and up to 85 per cent of self-employed, don’t have the knowledge or capability to promote their local small business online.

More than half don’t even have a basic website and are nowhere to be found online. In response to this the online business directory www.FirstMalta.com launched an online business listing service where businesses can upload content, contact information, photos and videos showcasing their products or services through ‘mini websites’.

“Larger businesses are today promoting their services aggressively on the internet, with websites, Facebook pages and links from various business and local directories. If small businesses can compete by creating a professional business profile they are improving the chances of gaining more online visibility and as a result in attracting new customers,” a spokesperson for FirstMalta.com said.

“With this new product we are allowing thousands of Maltese small business owners and self-employed to connect with more potential customers via Google and social media as well such as Facebook. Potential customers can later share and recommend such entrepreneurs to their friends and social network as well.”