Thread: How to Suggest "Refining Search" to Users

How to Suggest "Refining Search" to Users

Is there an elegant way of telling users after searching and possibly not finding any results that they should adjust the controls on the right in the "Refine Search" options?

I know it's obvious to many web users, but others are not as savvy or may be trained to ignore the "junk" in the sidebars. I don't want a user to type in a search and not get any results and give up because they aren't aware of the "Refine Search" controls on the right.

It would be nice if it could say something like:

"Possibly try adjusting the distance in miles to find your nearest business" etc. right under the "Sorry, No Listings Found"

Thanks!
Curtis