What are the most successful online businesses?

What geographic area of the United States do businesses have the most understanding of online marketing?

• We started an online directory at http://whocanihire.com that works with businesses and services looking to increase their online presence through social media and online directories.  We have little luck in bringing customers onto the site do to a lack of understanding of marketing online.  We always hear that they need our services, but rarely the effort made to follow-up.

• Answer:

  This is a tricky question, because it depends on the audience. Having started a marketing company targeting small established businesses and the owners didn't understand it or it's value. What most people want to see is results and can't see why their online presence matters. That isn't to say that they don't understand it, it's just seeing the value in it. And it requires a lot of education on your part to make sure that they get it, which means freebies or some results that move their needle. I would say that areas that have a higher tech scene would tend to have maybe more awareness of online marketing, but not necessarily more understanding. States include: Washington (Seattle especially) California (silicon valley, San Francisco) Boston New York Those are the main areas I would say have more awareness, but it's all about educating your client and showing what value you can add.