If you’re running a small business and wondering how to show up in Google search results, you’re not alone. I often hear questions like, “How do I get my business to appear when people search for what I offer?”
Even if you don’t have a lot of competition in your area or niche, Google won’t automatically show your site to potential customers. That visibility takes a bit of intention and digital legwork. But the good news? You don’t need to go overboard—you need to be consistent and clear.
Here are some practical, doable ways to start improving your visibility online.
1. Set up and optimize your Google Business Profile
This is one of the simplest—and most effective—things you can do. If you’ve ever searched for a service “near me” and seen a map with local listings, that’s powered by Google Business Profiles (formerly called Google My Business).
To make the most of it:
- Claim or verify your profile
- Choose accurate categories for your services
- Add a compelling business description
- Upload real photos of your work or location
- Keep your hours updated
- Ask clients for reviews (and respond to them!)
Even if you don’t have a storefront, you can set your service area so local customers can still find you.
2. Make sure your website is doing its part
A website doesn’t need to be big or complicated to be effective, but it does need to explain clearly:
- What you do
- Who you help
- Where you’re located (or what areas you serve)
- How to contact you
Consider creating a separate page for each core service you offer. That helps Google match your content with specific searches (like “mobile welding” or “custom cabinetry”). Aim for around 500–1,000 words per service page.
Also, make sure your website works well on mobile phones and loads quickly—Google pays attention to both.
3. Add new content regularly—even if it’s simple
Google likes to see that your website is active and offering value. That doesn’t mean you need to blog every week. Even adding:
- New project photos
- Case studies or testimonials
- Answers to frequently asked questions
…can signal to Google (and your visitors) that your business is engaged and trustworthy.
If you enjoy writing or sharing insights, occasional blog posts can boost visibility even more—especially if they answer questions your clients often ask.
4. Get listed in trusted local directories
These links help Google understand that your business is real and connected. Look for opportunities like:
- Yelp
- Alignable
- Facebook Business Page
- Your local Chamber of Commerce
- Industry-specific sites (like Houzz for home pros, or Bark for service providers)
Be sure your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) are consistent across every listing.
5. Use one platform to show up consistently
If social media feels overwhelming, you don’t have to be everywhere. Pick one platform where your ideal clients already spend time—like Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube—and use it to:
- Share examples of your work
- Offer behind-the-scenes peeks
- Talk about common client problems and how you solve them
- Invite people to reach out or ask questions
Consistency is more important than volume. Show up regularly and build trust.
6. Don’t underestimate the power of reviews
Word of mouth still matters, even online. Positive Google reviews help potential customers feel more confident—and they also improve your chances of showing up in local search results.
Make it easy for happy clients to leave a review by sending them a direct link. You can even save that link to your phone or desktop so it’s always handy.
A final thought
If you’re not seeing your business show up on Google yet, don’t panic. SEO isn’t instant—but it is doable. Especially in markets with low competition, just showing up consistently and building trust over time can make a big difference.
You don’t need to out-hustle anyone—you just need to show Google (and your customers) that you’re real, reliable, and ready to help.
If you’d like help sorting out your digital presence or figuring out where to focus first, I’d be glad to talk.
How to Help Google—and Your Customers—Find You
