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SEO Basics: A Simple Guide to Getting Your Business Found on Google

By Own Boss | October 14, 2025
SEO Basics: A Simple Guide to Getting Your Business Found on Google

Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) is the process of improving your website so that it appears higher in search engine results for relevant searches. For a small business, good SEO is one of the most powerful ways to attract new customers. When people in your area search for the products or services you offer, you want to be the business they find. This guide covers the fundamental, non-technical steps you can take to improve your visibility on search engines like Google.

1. Find Your Keywords

Keywords are the terms people type into Google. You need to know what they are. Think like a customer: what would you search for to find your business?

  • Be Specific: Instead of "cakes," a better keyword would be "vegan birthday cakes in Brighton."
  • Use Free Tools: Tools like Google Trends or answerthepublic.com can give you ideas about what people are searching for.
  • Make a List: Create a list of 5-10 core keywords that are most relevant to your main services or products.

2. Optimise Your Website Pages (On-Page SEO)

Once you have your keywords, you need to use them naturally on your website so Google understands what your pages are about.

  • Page Titles: The title of each page (the text that appears in the browser tab) should include your main keyword for that page. For example, "Bespoke Wedding Cakes in Brighton | Jane's Bakery".
  • Headings and Content: Use your keywords in the main headings and throughout the text on your pages. Write for humans first; it should sound natural, not robotic.
  • Images: Name your image files descriptively (e.g., "chocolate-wedding-cake.jpg") and add "alt text" describing the image. This helps Google understand the image content.

3. Master Local SEO (Google Business Profile)

For most small businesses, local SEO is the most important part. This is what helps you appear in the "map pack" when people search for businesses near them.

  • Claim and Optimise: The single most important thing you can do is claim your free Google Business Profile. Fill out every single section completely: add your address, phone number, opening hours, services, and lots of high-quality photos.
  • Get Reviews: Encourage your happy customers to leave reviews on your Google profile. Positive reviews are a huge signal to Google that you are a trusted local business.
  • Keep it Active: Regularly post updates, photos, and special offers to your profile to show that your business is active.

4. Build Trust with Links (Off-Page SEO)

When another website links to yours, it acts as a vote of confidence. These are called "backlinks."

  1. Local Directories: Get your business listed in reputable online directories like Yell.com or your local Chamber of Commerce. Ensure your name, address, and phone number are consistent everywhere.
  2. Collaborate Locally: Partner with other local businesses. For example, a wedding photographer could link to a florist they work with, and vice versa.
  3. Share Your Content: If you write a helpful blog post, share it on social media. People might link to it if they find it useful.

The Bottom Line: SEO is a marathon, not a sprint. By consistently applying these basics, you can gradually improve your rankings and attract a steady stream of valuable customers directly from Google.