Getting Found On Google: SEO Tips for Small Businesses

Search engine optimization (SEO) can feel intimidating, especially for small businesses. But the good news is that it doesn't have to be. SEO should be simple, strategic, and doable no matter the size of your business. If your ideal customers are Googling for what you offer, you need to make sure you're showing up.

You don't need to be an expert to start seeing results. With the right foundation, small businesses can compete with big players in search results. Here are some strategies that move the needle. 

1. Know your keywords. The first step to good SEO is knowing what your audience is typing into Google. These are called keywords, and you need to include them naturally in your site content, blog posts, and even image descriptions. Think beyond broad terms like "marketing agency” and get more specific: “North Georgia digital marketing agency”. The more specific you are, the better your chances are of ranking in the search results!

2. Optimize your website. Your website structure matters. Make sure each page has a clear title, description, and headers that focus on keywords. Every image should have alt text (which improves accessibility, too). Your site should also load fast and be mobile-friendly. If people bounce off your site too quickly, Google assumes your content isn't useful. For more info, check out our blog: What Makes a High Converting Website?

3. Create content that answers questions. One of the easiest ways to improve your SEO is by creating blog content that answers questions your audience is already asking. “Instagram Trends Every Small Business Needs to Know” or “The Power of Authentic Branding in 2025”. These types of posts will attract organic traffic and establish you as a reputable business in your space.

4. Get local. If your business works with people locally, local SEO is going to be your best friend. Make sure your Google business profile is claimed and updated with your correct address, hours, photos, and services. Encourage happy clients to leave reviews, Google loves high quality feedback. Use local keywords like your city name in your site content and meta tags.

5. Build backlinks. Backlinks are when other credible sites link to yours, and they are huge for SEO. You can build these through collaborations or local business directories. It's essentially Google's way of saying, “other people trust this site, so we should too.”. 

6. Keep content fresh. Google factors sites that are regularly updated. This doesn't mean you have to post every day, but updating pages, posting blogs, and publishing new content signals that your site is active and relevant. 

7. Track and adjust. Use tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console to monitor and track what keywords you are ranking for, which pages are doing well, and where people are dropping off. 

SEO isn't just one and done, it's a long game. Small improvements and learning over time will lead to big increases in your visibility!

Getting Found On Google: SEO Tips for Small Businesses