You’ve launched your website and it looks great. It feels like a true reflection of you and your business and you’re proud of it. Then comes the next challenge:
“How do I help people find it?”
I get asked this question a lot. Not because it’s complicated but because there are so many different things you could be doing that it’s hard to know where to start.
The good news is you don’t need to do everything at once. What you need is a simple and consistent approach that builds over time.
This guide will walk you through the key steps that you can take with clear actions for you can take.
1. Start with the Basics: What is SEO in plain English?
SEO is Search Engine Optimisation. It is simply about helping search engines like Google understand:
- what your website is about
- who it’s for
- when to show it in search results
You don’t need to be technical to master this. Most of it comes down to:
- clear wording
- helpful content
- consistency
If you’re a florist in Edinburgh, a counsellor in Leeds, a dog walker in Bristol, or running an online boutique from home, your goal is the same, you want to make it easy for the right people to find you.
2. Be Clear on Your Keywords What do People Actually Search for
Before you write anything or post anything, think about what your customers would type into Google. Examples:
- “florist in Edinburgh”
- “counsellor near me”
- “dog walker East Lothian”
- “handmade jewellery UK”
These are your keywords.
Quick wins:
- Use these phrases naturally in your page titles and headings
- Include your location where relevant
- Don’t overthink it. If it sounds natural, you’re on the right track
3. Your Website Content Matters More Than You Think
Your website isn’t just there to look nice. It needs to clearly explain:
- what you do
- who you help
- how people can work with you
Focus on:
- Clear, explicit headings rather than vague phrases
- Simple explanations
- Answering real questions that your customers have
For example:
Instead of “Welcome to my world”, say “Florist in Edinburgh for Weddings and Events”
It might feel less creative, but it works.
4. Blogging: The Long Game That Pays Off
Blogging helps your website show up in more searches over time. Each blog is another opportunity for someone to find you, making you more discoverable.
Good blog topics:
- Common questions your clients ask
- “How to” guides
- "Behind the scenes" features
- Local or seasonal content
Examples:
- “How to Choose your spring wedding displays with your Edinburgh Florist”
- “What to Expect from Your First Counselling Session”
- “Best Dog Walks in East Lothian”
- “How to Care for Handmade Jewellery”
Key thing to remember:
You don’t need lots of words, just useful and relevant content.
5. Links - Why They Matter and How to Get Them
Links are when other websites mention you and link to your site. Search engines see this as a sign that your website is attractive and trustworthy.
Easy ways to get links:
- Local directories
- Collaborations with other businesses
- Being featured in blogs or articles
- Guest posts
You don’t need lots. A few good ones make a difference.
6. Google Business Profile - Don’t Skip This
If you offer a service locally, your Google Business Profile is one of the most important things you can set up. This helps you show up in:
- Google Maps
- Local search results
Make sure you:
- Fill in every section
- Add photos
- Keep your details up to date
- Ask for reviews and work hard to ensure they are positive
For local businesses, this can be just as important as your website.
7. Social Media - Supporting, Not Carrying Everything
Social media is very helpful but it shouldn’t be your only strategy. Think of it as a way to draw people back to your website
Simple approach:
- Share your blogs
- Talk about your services
- Show your work
- Be consistent rather than constant
You don’t need to be everywhere. Pick one or two platforms over which to provide content and do that well.
8. Email Marketing - Your Most Reliable Audience
Unlike social media, you own your email list. Even a small list is valuable.
Start simple:
- Add a sign-up form to your website
- Offer something useful (a guide, tips, updates)
- Send occasional emails
For example:
- Florists: seasonal reminders and ideas
- Counsellors: helpful insights, thoughts and advice
- Dog walkers: availability updates, dog photos
- Boutiques: new product launches
9. Don’t Forget the Small Details - They Add Up
These are the bits people often skip, but they do make a difference over time.
Image names:
Instead of:
IMG_1234.jpg
Use:
edinburgh-wedding-florist-bouquet.jpg
Alt text (additional text describing a photo):
Describe what’s in the image. This helps with accessibility and SEO.
Page titles and descriptions:
These are what show in Google search results. Make them clear and relevant.
10. Be Consistent - This is the Bit That Actually Works
This is the honest part. Marketing your website isn’t about doing everything perfectly. It’s about:
- showing up regularly
- keeping things up to date
- adding content over time
You don’t need to do everything in this list this week. Start with working on:
- Clear website content
- A few strong keywords
- Your Google Business Profile
- One blog a month
That’s more than enough to get momentum.
Final Thought
If your website isn’t getting found yet, it doesn’t mean it’s not working. It usually just means it hasn’t had enough time or support yet.
A well-built website plus consistent, simple marketing gets results.
If you’d rather not figure it all out by yourself, or if you have tried and it is really not working, please do get in touch.