Marketing

How to get your small business found on Google

Being found on Google is often the single biggest source of new customers for a small business. Here's a practical, jargon-free guide to getting started.

1. Set up a Google Business Profile

This is the free listing that shows up with your name, map pin, reviews and opening hours. It's the most important thing for local "near me" searches — set it up at business.google.com, fill in every field, add photos, and keep it updated.

2. Have a proper website

Your Google Business Profile and your website work together. A professional website helps Google understand what you do and where you do it, and gives you somewhere to send the people who find you. Each page should clearly target what you offer.

Tip: make sure your business name, address and phone number are consistent everywhere online — on your website, your Google profile and any directories.

3. Get reviews

Genuine Google reviews boost both your ranking and your credibility. Simply ask happy customers to leave one — most are glad to help if you make it easy.

4. Cover the right keywords

Think about what your customers actually type: "barber in Leeds", "emergency plumber near me", "café with wifi". Your website should have clear pages and headings that match those searches. (Keep it natural — don't stuff keywords.)

5. Be patient

SEO isn't instant. It typically takes weeks to months to build up, especially for a newer website — but the traffic it brings is some of the best-quality, highest-intent traffic you can get, and it compounds over time.

Want a head start?

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