Running a small business is no easy feat! You wear many hats, juggle countless tasks, and constantly think about how to attract more customers. One of the most effective (and affordable) ways to do that is through Search Engine Optimisation (SEO). Done right, SEO helps your business show up when potential customers search for your products or services online.
If you’re a small business owner looking to boost visibility without breaking the bank, here are some simple, actionable SEO tips to get started:
1. Start With the Right Keywords
Think about what your customers type into Google (or other search engines!) when looking for your services. Tools like Google Keyword Planner, Ubersuggest, or even the autocomplete feature in Google search can help you uncover valuable keywords.
Tip: Focus on long-tail keywords (e.g., “best bakery in Austin” instead of just “bakery”) – they’re less competitive and more likely to convert.
2. Optimise Your Website’s ‘On-Page’ SEO
Once you’ve got your keywords, sprinkle them naturally throughout your website:
- Page titles & meta descriptions
- Headings (H1, H2, etc.)
- Image alt text
- Website copy
Remember: don’t stuff keywords. Write for humans first, search engines second. A good rule to follow is to have 2% of your content as your keywords.
3. Claim & Optimise Your Google Business Profile
For local businesses, this is crucial. Your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) shows up in local searches and Google Maps. Make sure it’s complete with:
- Accurate business hours
- Photos of your store/products
- Customer reviews (and respond to them!)
This helps boost your chances of appearing in the local pack—those top results that include maps and business info.
4. Create Quality Content Regularly
Blog posts, how-to guides, or even FAQs can work wonders. Fresh content signals to Google that your site is active and trustworthy. Plus, it’s a great way to answer customer questions and build authority in your niche.
Example: A landscaping company might post “5 Easy Tips to Keep Your Lawn Green All Summer.”
5. Build Local Backlinks
Backlinks (links from other websites to yours) are like votes of confidence. For small businesses, focus on local opportunities:
- Partner with local bloggers or influencers
- Sponsor community events
- Get listed in local directories
The more reputable sites link to you, the more credibility you gain in Google’s eyes.
6. Make Your Website Mobile-Friendly
Over half of web traffic comes from mobile devices. If your site isn’t easy to navigate on a phone, you’re losing customers (and rankings). Use responsive design and make sure pages load quickly. We know that Google favours fast, mobile-friendly sites.
7. Track Your Progress
You can’t improve what you don’t measure. Free tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console show how people are finding your website, which keywords drive traffic, and where you can improve.
Final Thoughts
SEO doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start with small, consistent steps. Optimise your website, create content, and focus on local visibility. Over time, these efforts will compound, helping your small business attract more customers and stay ahead of the competition.
Remember: SEO is a marathon, not a sprint. The sooner you start, the sooner you’ll see results. Get in touch with us at Gwe Cambrian Web for a helping start today.
