Here’s how to get found online
When someone nearby searches online for what you offer, you want your business to show up — ideally right at the top. That’s where local SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) comes in. It’s all about making sure people in your area can find your business quickly and easily when they need it most.
Whether you run a café, a plumbing business, a local store or a cleaning service, local SEO can help get more people through your door — or calling you for help.
Why being seen locally matters
Did you know that almost half of all Google searches are for local information? That’s huge! If you’re not showing up when people nearby search for your service, you could be missing out on a lot of potential business. Local SEO helps your business appear in search results when people are looking for products or services in your area, not nationwide. So instead of trying to compete with the whole world, you’re just focusing on the customers closest to you.
The 3 BIG things Google looks at
When someone searches for a local business, Google looks at:
1. Location – How close is your business to the person searching?
2. Reputation – Are your online reviews good? Do people talk about your business online?
3. Relevance – Does your business match what the person is searching for?
Improving these three things can help your business show up higher in local searches.
Set up and supercharge your Google business profile
Your Google Business Profile is like a mini-website that shows up when people search for your business — or even businesses like yours. It’s free, and it’s powerful.
Make sure it includes:
Tip: The more complete and active your profile, the better your chance of standing out!
Use the right local words on your website
Think about what someone might type into Google when they’re looking for your service. They probably won’t just type “hairdresser” — they’ll type something like “hairdresser near me” or “best barber in Goring”
Use location-based words (also called “keywords”) across your website:
Tip: Take a peek at what your competitors are doing. You might get some great ideas — or spot a gap you can fill.
Get links from other local websites
Links from other local sites (like a local newspaper, business directory, or event listing) can boost your visibility online. These links tell Google your business is trusted and part of the community.
You could:
Tip: Make sure your business details are consistent across all sites – that means the same name, address and phone number everywhere.
More than one location?
If your business serves more than one area, create a dedicated page for each location on your website. Each page should include the address, contact info, and services for that specific area — plus content that’s relevant to people there.
Conclusion
Local SEO helps your business get seen by the people who are most likely to become your customers — your neighbours. It’s about showing up when they search, earning their trust, and helping them choose you. By updating your Google profile, using the right keywords, and connecting with your community online, you’re putting your business in the best position to grow locally.
