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SEO for small businesses: Your complete guide to getting found online

All you need to know to rank on Google

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Why SEO matters for small businesses

Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) is simply the practice of improving your website so it appears higher in search results on Google and other search engines. When done properly, it brings qualified visitors to your website - people actively searching for what you sell.

For small businesses, SEO can be a game-changer. Unlike paid advertising that stops the moment you stop paying, SEO builds lasting visibility. It's your 24/7 salesperson, working whilst you sleep, connecting you with customers who are already interested in what you offer.

93%

of online experiences
begin with search engines

75%

of users
never scroll past page one

3x

more clicks
for top 3 results vs. position 4-10

Your SEO journey: What this series covers

Think of SEO as a journey, not a destination. This guide connects you to everything you need to succeed, from fundamental concepts to advanced tactics. Each section links to detailed guides that dive deeper into specific topics.

Understanding the basics

 

Learn why SEO Matters and how search engines actually work

SEO Basics

Finding your keywords

 

How to prioritise the right keywords to grow your business

Finding keywords

Optimising your site

 

Make your website search-engine friendly

Website optimisation

Going local

 

Dominate searches in your geographical area

Local SEO

Advanced strategy

Implement technical SEO improvements

Advanced SEO

Essential SEO topics for small businesses

A small clothes shop

Why SEO Matters for small businesses

Discover why search optimisation is crucial for competing with larger companies. Learn how SEO levels the playing field and builds sustainable growth without massive marketing budgets. 

Why SEO matters
Google search engine browser window

How search engines work

Demystify Google's ranking process. Understand crawling, indexing, and ranking factors in simple terms. Know what search engines look for so you can give them exactly that.

How search engines work
Someone conducting keyword research

Keyword research for beginners

Find the exact phrases your customers use when searching. Learn practical methods for identifying high-value keywords without expensive tools. Start targeting the right searches today.

Keyword research
Webpage review

On-page SEO basics

Master the fundamentals of optimising individual pages. From title tags to meta descriptions, learn the essential elements that help search engines understand your content and improve rankings.

On-page SEO

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Common SEO mistakes

Even well-intentioned business owners make costly SEO errors. From keyword stuffing to ignoring mobile users, these mistakes can tank your rankings and waste precious time.Our comprehensive guide reveals the most common pitfalls and how to sidestep them. Learn what not to do, spot red flags in advice you've received, and course-correct before damaging your site's reputation with search engines.

Google search console dashboard

Getting started: The SEO checklist

Download our getting started checklist. All you need to know to get up and running with your SEO strategy for your small business.

Technical SEO and advanced strategies

Technical SEO Explained Simply

Don't let the word "technical" scare you. This guide breaks down site speed, mobile-friendliness, and site structure into manageable tasks. Ensure search engines can properly crawl and index your site.

Learn technical SEO

Advanced SEO
strategies

Ready to take your strategy further? Explore link building, content clusters, and competitive analysis. These tactics help you outrank competitors and capture more valuable traffic. 

Discover advanced tactics

Schema markup for beginners

Make your search listings stand out with rich snippets. Schema markup helps Google display star ratings, prices, and other eye-catching details. It's easier than you think. Master schema markup.

Master schema mark up
A local coffee shop

Local SEO: Dominate Your Area

If you serve customers in a specific location, local SEO is your secret weapon. Appear in "near me" searches, Google Maps results, and the coveted local pack—those three businesses Google highlights at the top of search results.Local SEO is often easier to win than national rankings, making it perfect for small businesses. You're competing with other local companies, not corporate giants. With the right optimisation, you can become the go-to choice in your area.

Claim Your Google Business Profile

Your free listing on Google Maps and Search

Build local citations

Get listed in directories and local websites

Read the full SEO series

Optimise for local keywords

Target searches that include your city or region

Collect customer reviews

Social proof that boosts rankings and conversions

Frequently asked questions

What is
SEO?

SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) is the practice of improving your website to rank higher in search engine results. It involves optimising content, technical elements, and building authority so Google shows your site to people searching for what you offer.

How long does SEO take?

Expect to see meaningful results in 3-6 months, though some improvements appear sooner. SEO is a long-term strategy—the work you do today compounds over time. Unlike paid ads, your rankings continue working without constant investment.

Can I do SEO
myself?

Absolutely! Whilst agencies and consultants can accelerate results, small business owners can successfully implement basic SEO themselves. Start with fundamentals like keyword research and on-page optimisation. This guide provides everything you need to begin.

What's the difference between paid ads and SEO?

Paid ads deliver immediate traffic but stop when you stop paying. SEO takes longer but builds sustainable visibility. Most businesses benefit from both: ads for quick wins whilst building long-term SEO presence. SEO typically delivers better ROI over time.

Do small
businesses
need SEO?

Yes! SEO levels the playing field against larger competitors. It's one of the most cost-effective marketing channels for small businesses. If your customers search online for what you offer (and they do), you need SEO to be found.

Start your SEO journey today

SEO might seem overwhelming at first, but remember: every expert started exactly where you are now. The difference between businesses that succeed online and those that struggle often comes down to taking that first step.

You don't need to implement everything at once. Pick one area, perhaps keyword research or optimising your homepage, and start there. Small, consistent improvements compound into significant results.

Ready to begin? Explore our resources and topic pages linked throughout this page, and start building the online visibility your business deserves.

A sign saying 'Come in we're open'