How to Use SEO to Grow Your Service Business with Sally Howard

Listen on Spotify | Listen on Apple Podcasts

Timestamps:

[02:31] What is SEO?

[30:47] Keyword Research

[41:20] SEO Terms to Know

[51:49] Google Likes Fast Sites

If you're running a service business, getting found on Google is crucial for attracting new clients. But with so much competition, how do you ensure your business stands out? Sally Howard, the Founder and Chief Marketing Maverick at 49 North Digital, joined us on the Master Your Business Podcast to share her 6 easy steps to help you get your business found on Google. Sally's insights make SEO simple and actionable, even if you're just starting out.

What is SEO?

SEO, or Search Engine Optimisation, is all about making sure your business appears at the top of Google search results. When potential clients search for services you offer, you want your business to be the first they see. Why? Because the higher you rank, the more trustworthy and credible you appear. SEO involves strategies both on your website (on-page SEO) and beyond (off-page SEO) to improve your visibility.

6 Easy Steps to Get Your Business Found on Google

Sally shared her straightforward 6-step process that any service business can follow to improve their Google ranking. Let’s break it down:

Analyse Your Current Standing

Before you start, you need to know where you are. Use tools like Google Search Console and Google Analytics to see how your website is performing and where your traffic is coming from. This is your starting point.

Conduct Strategic Keyword Research

Identify the key phrases your potential clients are searching for. Focus on both broad terms and specific long-tail keywords that directly relate to the services you offer. This research will guide your content creation and SEO efforts.

Clear the Path on Your Website

Your website needs to be optimised for SEO. This includes fixing any technical issues like broken links, ensuring your title tags and meta descriptions are optimised, and improving your site’s structure and speed. A clean, user-friendly site is essential for ranking well on Google.

Elevate Your Content

Content is king when it comes to SEO. Create blog posts that answer the questions your potential clients are asking. Use your researched keywords, and make sure your content is engaging, informative, and easy to read. Don’t forget to include internal links to keep visitors on your site longer.

Optimise for “Near me” Searches

If your business serves a local area, optimising your Google Business Profile is key. Make sure your profile is complete, regularly updated, and includes customer reviews. This helps you rank higher when people search for services "near me."

Diversify Your Online Presence

SEO isn't just about your website. Off-page SEO includes everything you do outside of your site to boost your credibility. This could be guest blogging, getting featured in the press, or building a strong social media presence. The more reputable sites link to yours, the higher Google will rank you.

Why Off-Page SEO Matters

Many business owners focus solely on their websites, but Sally emphasises the importance of off-page SEO. This includes building backlinks, social media activity, and getting mentioned in reputable online publications. Off-page SEO helps Google see your business as a trusted and credible source, which can significantly boost your rankings.

Take Action to Improve Your SEO

✅ Set up Google Search Console and Google Analytics
These tools are essential for tracking your SEO performance. Get them set up today and start analysing your data.

✅ Do Your Keyword Research
Use tools like SEMrush or Ubersuggest to find the key phrases your audience is searching for. This will guide your content strategy and help you rank for the right terms.

✅ Audit Your Website
Check your site regularly for issues like broken links or slow loading times. Also, make sure your title tags, meta descriptions, and content are all optimised for your target keywords.

By following Sally Howard’s 6 easy steps, you can start climbing the Google ranks and attract more clients to your service business. SEO is a continuous process, but with these strategies, you’re well on your way to using it to grow your service business by getting found on Google.

Listen to the full podcast episode for more actionable tips and inspiration: Listen to full episode