9 SEO Tips for Small Business Owners to Rank Higher on Google

Organic Google hits only happen when SEO is optimized. There are a few “hacks” to do this, so your website is higher in the pack for local listings and targeted keywords. This article outlines actionable steps for your to take to ensure you’re getting the traffic you deserve as a small business owner.

1. Use HTTPS

HTTPS stands for “Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure.” Most webpages are by default HTTP, but if you want higher SEO rankings, you will need to purchase an SSL certificate. Having HTTPS is important because users’ information is more secure on the internet through HTTPS.

2. Optimize for Mobile

With more and more people browsing the internet on mobile devices, it’s essential to ensure that your website is mobile-friendly and provides a seamless user experience. Even a few offset pixels can hinder user experience and could decrease conversions. Use Google Search Console to show mobile optimizations.

3. Improve Page Loading Speed

Google favors websites that load quickly, so optimize your website’s images, minimize HTTP requests, and reduce server response time to improve your page loading speed. A good load speed is one second or less. 

4. Use Strong Meta Titles

A meta title is the article title that shows in Google (above the meta description). Note that is is different from the H1 tag in the article. The meta title is what entices users to click the article. The H1 is what shows on the webpage once the link is clicked in Google.

5. Do Keyword Research

Identify the keywords and phrases your target audience is searching for and use them in your website’s content, meta tags, and URLs. Let’s say you’re a nail polish line. If you’re just starting out, consider a few phrases to work with: 

• “nail polish colors”

• “nail polish wholesale”

Better yet, if your nail polish is sold at a storefront, add your location in with the keywords. Like: “nail polish in Los Angeles.”

6. Build Quality Backlinks

Links from authoritative and relevant websites can boost your website’s credibility and help you rank higher on Google. Focus on creating high-quality content that people will want to link to. You can do this by adding quality blog articles that answer users’ questions. Blogs that start with “How to…” or “ Tips for…” are good article starters.

7. Optimize Your Google My Business Listing

Claim and optimize your Google My Business listing to improve your local SEO rankings. Make sure your business information is accurate and up-to-date, and encourage customers to leave reviews. Add images so potential customers know what to expect coming to your store.

Unfortunately, if you’re an online business without a storefront, you’re out of luck in getting a Google My Business profile. BUT you can add a geographical area of service for businesses like contractors.

8. Use short URLs (Permalinks)

Shorter URLs (permalinks) are great for SEO. Use 2-4 words and add relevant keywords. These are easy to remember and easy to share. As an example, sethkingdon.com/seo-audit is a lot easier to remember and share than sethkingdon.com/an-seo-audit-for-your-website.

9. Use Heading Tags

Use heading tags (H1-H6) to structure your content. H1 is your title tag for the webpage, while H2-H6 are outline structures. Remember, you’re writing for Google and users. Heading tags will help outline and structure the content so it’s easy for Google to understand. Shoot for three or more relevant headings tags.

This guest blog article was written by Seth Kingdon

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