If your website isn’t showing up on Google, you’re missing out on free traffic, new leads, and potential customers every single day. Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is how you change that. And no, it doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. So how to improve your SEO?
In this guide, we’ll break down SEO into simple, actionable steps that any business owner can follow, even if you’re not a tech expert.
So let’s dive right in.
How to Improve Your SEO
1. Start With Keyword Research
The foundation of good SEO? Knowing what your audience is searching for.
Start by identifying the keywords your ideal customers might type into Google when looking for your product or service.
For example:
- If you run a bakery in Dallas, they might search for “best cupcakes in Dallas” or “custom birthday cakes near me.”
- A local service business might target terms like “plumber in Salt Lake City” or “emergency AC repair.”
Quick tips:
- Use free tools like Ubersuggest, Google Keyword Planner, or AnswerThePublic.
- Focus on long-tail keywords (3-5 word phrases). They’re less competitive and more targeted.
2. Optimize Your Website Pages
Once you’ve got your keywords, it’s time to sprinkle them (naturally) across your site.
Focus on these key areas:
- Page titles (Title Tag): This is what shows up on Google. Include your keyword early in the title.
- Meta descriptions: Write a short, compelling summary using your keyword to encourage clicks.
- Headings (H1, H2, etc.): Use your primary keyword in at least one heading.
- Body content: Mention your keyword and related terms naturally throughout your content.
- URL: Keep it clean and keyword-friendly. (e.g., yoursite.com/plumber-salt-lake-city)
Remember: Write for humans first, search engines second. Google favors content that genuinely helps users, not just checks SEO boxes.
3. Create High-Quality, Helpful Content
Google loves websites that help users. A simple way to build SEO strength is to consistently publish valuable content that answers the real questions your audience has.
Ideas:
- Blog posts (like this one)
- How-to guides
- FAQs
- Local tips and resource roundups
For example, a salon might post “How to Care for Your Hair After Coloring” or “Best Hairstyles for Summer 2025.” These attract searchers and build authority over time. Each blog post is another chance to rank on Google.
4. Make Sure Your Site is Mobile-Friendly & Fast
Google prioritizes websites that load fast and work well on mobile devices.
Use Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test and PageSpeed Insights to check your site’s performance. If it’s slow or clunky on mobile, work with your web developer or use a mobile-optimized theme if you’re on platforms like Wix, Shopify, or WordPress.
Quick tips:
- Compress large images
- Avoid unnecessary pop-ups
- Keep menus and buttons easy to use on small screens
5. Claim and Optimize Your Google Business Profile
If you’re a local business, your Google Business Profile (GBP) is one of the most powerful free tools you can use.
Make sure to:
- Claim and verify your listing
- Add up-to-date business hours, services, and photos
- Use your target keywords in the description
- Encourage happy customers to leave reviews
This helps your business show up in local map results when someone nearby searches for what you offer.
6. Build Backlinks
A backlink is when another website links to your site. Google sees this as a vote of confidence and backlinking can dramatically boost your SEO.
How to get quality backlinks:
- Write guest posts for industry blogs
- List your business on local directories (like Yelp, Angi, or industry-specific ones)
- Create shareable content like infographics or expert roundups
Pro tip: Avoid shady backlink deals or “link farms” as Google penalizes that.
7. Track Your Results and Keep Improving
SEO isn’t a “set it and forget it” job. It takes ongoing effort, testing, and tweaks.
Use free tools like:
- Google Analytics to monitor your traffic
- Google Search Console to see what keywords you’re ranking for and spot any issues
Check your site monthly and keep creating helpful content, optimizing pages, and improving your user experience.
Final Thoughts
SEO doesn’t have to be intimidating. When you break it down into simple steps and stay consistent, it becomes a powerful growth engine for your business.
You don’t need to be a tech wizard or hire an expensive agency to start seeing results. Focus on the basics, deliver value, and stay patient. Google rewards effort over time.
Want more tips like this? Check out our blog for real-world marketing advice that actually works.
Ready to Start Ranking?
If you’re serious about getting your business to the top of Google, our SEO experts are here to help. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all plans. We tailor every strategy to your goals, audience, and budget. Whether you need better keyword targeting, faster site speed, or local SEO that actually brings in leads, we’ve got you covered. Get a free SEO audit today.
