Searches for terms relating to the financial services sector have increased by 19 per cent since 2009, new figures reveal.
The research, conducted by Google also show that searches for the phrase ‘unbiased financial advice’ has risen by 84 per cent, in the last two years.
IFA Life said the figures highlighted the important role the internet plays when consumers seek help in financial planning and that firms with a strong online presence are obviously more likely to benefit from searches.
The releases of the results coincide with plans announced by Google, to help independent financial advisor’s (IFAs) improve their online marketing skills. Many IFAs have yet to look at the ways in which the internet can help them, such as using online marketing or by implementing search engine optimisation techniques.
Research found that the majority of IFAs are not taking advantage of the growing market that is consumers looking for financial help. Many IFAs were found not to have websites and those that did failed to keep them up to date.
Google’s head of finance in the UK told Money Marketing magazine: “We want to offer more support to IFAs looking to grow their business through effective use of search marketing.
“Our aim is to offer an educational starting point to these financial advisers. Consumers are looking for guidance in their wealth management and we believe that the internet can play an important role in helping them find the appropriate support.”
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