When you hear the term “SEO,” it might sound like something only big companies need to worry about — but that’s far from the truth. If you run a local business, having even the basics of SEO in place can make a big difference.
So, what is SEO?
SEO stands for Search Engine Optimisation. It’s the process of making changes to your website so that it ranks higher in search engines like Google. The higher you appear, the more likely people are to find you when they’re searching for your services.
Why it matters for small businesses
Let’s say you run a café, garage, or hair salon. If someone searches for “coffee near me” or “car repairs Barnsley,” and your website doesn’t show up — they’ll go elsewhere. SEO helps you get seen by people actively looking for what you offer.
The main elements of SEO
- Content: Making sure your website says the right things in the right places
- Keywords: Using words people are likely to search for (like “emergency plumber Sheffield”)
- Links: Getting other sites to link to yours, which shows Google you’re trustworthy
- Speed & mobile-friendliness: Making sure your site loads fast and works well on a phone
- Google Business Profile: An essential (and free) tool for local visibility
Is it a quick fix?
Not really. SEO takes time — it’s a slow burner, but the results build over time. Unlike ads, you’re not paying for each click. Once your site starts to rank, you can enjoy steady traffic without spending a penny.
How to get started
Start small:
- Keep your Google Business Profile up to date
- Add useful content to your site (like blog posts or FAQs)
- Make sure your site is easy to navigate
- Use local keywords where it makes sense
SEO doesn’t have to be overwhelming — and you don’t need to be a tech expert to get the basics right.