Here are 10 smart ways a small business can get noticed on Google—beyond just social media posts:
1. Claim and Optimize Your Google Business Profile

Your Google Business Profile (GBP) (formerly Google My Business) is one of the most powerful free tools available. Make sure to:

• Claim your listing
• Add accurate business info
• Use keywords in your description
• Post updates and photos regularly
• Ask happy customers for reviews

Your profile can help your business show up in local search results and Google Maps.

2. Get Google Reviews (and Respond to Them)

Positive reviews can boost your credibility and ranking. Google favors businesses with lots of high-quality reviews. Encourage customers to leave reviews and always respond to them professionally—it shows engagement and builds trust.

3. Focus on Local SEO

Local search is crucial for small businesses. To improve your local SEO:

• Use location-based keywords (like “Maui coffee shop”)
• Add your location in meta titles and tags
• Include your address consistently across the web
• Get listed in online directories like Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Yellow Pages

4. Build a Blog Around Searchable Topics

Create a blog on your website and post helpful, keyword-rich content. Think about what your customers are Googling and answer those questions. For example:

• “Best skincare routine for dry skin”
• “How to choose a wedding photographer”
• “Tips for planning a Maui vacation”

Blogging boosts SEO and establishes you as a local expert.

5. Use Structured Data Markup (Schema)

This is a bit more technical but powerful. Schema markup helps Google understand your content and display rich results like ratings, hours, or FAQs. Adding this to your website (especially for products, services, or events) improves your search appearance.

6. Submit Your Site to Google Search Console

Google Search Console is a free tool that helps monitor your site’s presence in search results. It tells you:

• Which pages are being indexed
• What keywords you're ranking for
• Any issues that could hurt your visibility

Submitting your sitemap helps Google crawl and understand your website better.

7. Create Location-Based Landing Pages

If you serve multiple locations or neighborhoods, create a page for each. These pages help you show up for hyper-local searches and increase visibility across different regions.

8. Collaborate with Other Local Websites

Backlinks—when another website links to yours—are a key SEO factor. Reach out to local blogs, directories, or community groups to feature your business. Ideas:

• Guest blog for a local magazine
• Get listed in community calendars
• Collaborate on a giveaway or blog post

9. Post on Google (Not Just Instagram!)

Within your Google Business Profile, there’s a “Posts” feature—like mini social media posts. Use this to:

• Promote specials or events
• Share customer photos
• Link to blog posts

These posts appear in search results when someone finds your business, giving you a fresh edge.

10. Make Sure Your Website is Fast, Mobile-Friendly & Secure

Google ranks user-friendly websites higher. That means

• Mobile responsiveness (works well on phones)
• Fast loading times
• HTTPS (secure connection)
• Easy-to-read, well-organized content

If your website is outdated or slow, consider a refresh—it can make a huge difference.

Final Thoughts

Getting noticed on Google takes a little planning, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with your Google Business Profile, make sure your website is optimized for search, and consistently create valuable content. Over time, you’ll see better rankings, more website visits, and most importantly—more customers.

Want help with your online visibility? Reach out and let’s chat about how to get your business found faster! If you need guidance on #5 Schema tags, please let me know. Email me.