SEO can feel complicated, but most of the wins for small businesses come from getting the basics right. Work through this checklist and you’ll be ahead of many of your competitors.
Technical basics
- Your website loads quickly on mobile (test it with Google PageSpeed Insights).
- Your site uses HTTPS (the padlock in the browser bar).
- Your site is set up in Google Search Console, and your sitemap has been submitted.
- There are no broken links or pages showing errors.
- Every page works well on a phone.
On-page SEO
- Every page has a unique title tag that includes its main keyword.
- Every page has a clear, enticing meta description.
- Each page has one main heading (H1) that tells people what it’s about.
- Your content answers the questions your customers actually ask.
- Images have descriptive file names and alt text.
- Pages link to other relevant pages on your site.
Local SEO
- Your Google Business Profile is claimed, complete and verified.
- Your business name, address and phone number are the same everywhere online.
- You’re regularly asking happy customers for Google reviews, and replying to them.
- You post updates to your Google Business Profile.
- Your website mentions the areas you serve.
Content
- You have a dedicated page for each main service.
- You publish helpful blog posts or guides regularly.
- You update older content so it stays accurate.
Authority
- You’re listed in relevant, reputable directories for your industry.
- You look for opportunities to be featured by local press, partners and suppliers.
Tracking
- Google Analytics is set up, with your contact forms and calls tracked as conversions.
- You check Search Console monthly to see which searches bring people to your site.
Tick these off one at a time. SEO rewards consistency, so small improvements every month add up to big results over a year.
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