SEO is most useful when it helps the right people discover a business and then gives those visitors a clear path towards becoming customers. For a small business, the foundation should be practical and sustainable.
1. Make sure search engines can access your site
Check that important pages are indexable, the site is available over HTTPS, the sitemap is working and important URLs are not accidentally blocked.
2. Give every important page a clear purpose
A service page should answer the questions a potential customer has about that service. Avoid creating multiple pages that say essentially the same thing just to target slightly different keywords.
3. Use clear titles and descriptions
Page titles and descriptions should accurately describe the page and help users understand why the result is relevant. They should be written for people rather than packed with repeated keywords.
4. Strengthen local signals
If your business serves a particular area, make your actual service area clear through useful website content and your business profile. Do not invent locations or addresses simply to target a keyword.
5. Build useful internal links
Link related services and resources where it helps the reader. A guide about choosing a website developer can naturally link to your website development service, while a guide about eCommerce can link to your eCommerce service.
6. Make the website easy to use
Mobile usability, performance, readable content, clear navigation and obvious calls to action all contribute to a better experience. Google also recommends considering page experience as a whole rather than chasing a single metric.
7. Measure what matters
Search impressions and clicks are useful, but businesses should also watch enquiries, calls, sales and other meaningful conversions.
Hashub combines technical SEO, local SEO, content, conversion optimisation and digital marketing for businesses in Durban and across South Africa.