What small businesses need to know about Google’s search algorithm

When you search for something on Google, have you ever wondered how certain businesses pop up at the top of the results while others are buried deeper down? 

This is because of Google’s search algorithm, a complex system that determines which web pages are shown to users based on various factors. As a small business owner, understanding how this algorithm works can be the key to improving your online visibility and ranking higher in search results.

Let’s break down what you really need to know without all the technical jargon.

1. Relevance is key: What does Google think you’re searching for?

Google’s algorithm is all about understanding the intent behind your search.

When someone types in “plumber in Auckland,” Google wants to show results that are most relevant to that search term.

For your business to rank highly, Google needs to understand exactly what your business offers and whether it matches the keywords people are searching for.

Here’s how you can improve your relevance:

• Optimise your website and Google Business Profile: Make sure your business name, services, and location are clearly stated, both on your website and on your Google Business Profile. The more relevant your information is to the search terms, the more likely Google will show your business in the search results.
• Use keywords wisely: Research the phrases your potential customers are typing into Google and use those keywords throughout your website and Google Business Profile. Check out our blog article that shares all you need to know about keywords, free research tools and how to use them.

2. Local SEO matters: Ranking for location-based searches

For small businesses that primarily serve local customers, Google’s algorithm gives a lot of weight to local SEO.

If you’re a plumber, landscaper, or electrician serving a specific area, it’s crucial to focus on local search factors to improve your ranking.

Google’s Local Pack, the section at the top of search results showing three local businesses, is driven by signals like:

• Your Google Business Profile: Ensure all your details—business name, address, phone number, website—are accurate and consistent across all platforms.
• Customer reviews: Google values reviews not just for social proof but also as a ranking factor. The more positive reviews you have, the more likely Google will push your business higher up the rankings. betterbunch’s automated feedback system can help you gather these reviews effortlessly.

3. Mobile-friendly websites: The era of smartphones

More than half of all web traffic comes from mobile devices, and Google prioritises that.

If your website isn’t mobile-responsive, you risk getting penalised in search rankings.

Here’s how to make your website mobile-friendly:

• Responsive design: Ensure your website automatically adjusts to different screen sizes, whether it’s a smartphone, tablet, or desktop.
• Speed is crucial: Google also checks how quickly your website loads on mobile devices. Slow-loading websites can hurt your ranking, so use tools like Google’s PageSpeed Insights to optimise load times.

4. Quality content: The power of useful information

Google loves content that is valuable, relevant, and useful to users.

If your website has high-quality, informative content, Google will reward you by boosting your search rankings. This is where blogging, detailed service pages, and FAQ sections can make a real difference.

To create content that Google loves:

• Answer common questions: Think about the questions your customers ask most often and create blog posts or FAQs that answer them.
• Keep content fresh: Regularly update your website with fresh content, such as blog posts, case studies, or news about your services. This shows Google that your site is active and relevant.
  

5. Backlinks: Building your online authority

Backlinks are links from other websites that point to yours. They’re like “votes of confidence” for your business.

The more high-quality, relevant websites link back to you, the more authority your website gains in Google’s eyes.

To build backlinks:

• Partner with local businesses or organisations: Sponsor local events or get listed in online directories to get backlinks from trusted, authoritative sites in your community.
  
• Create shareable content: Produce valuable content that other sites or bloggers would want to link to. This could be a helpful guide, an interesting blog post, or even a case study.
  

6. User experience: Happy customers = higher rankings

Google wants to show its users the best possible results, and part of that involves providing a good user experience.

If your website is easy to navigate, has a clean design, and loads quickly, visitors are more likely to stay on your site longer—this sends positive signals to Google.

To enhance user experience:

• Simplify navigation: Make it easy for visitors to find what they need, whether it’s your services, contact details, or customer testimonials.
• Clear calls to action: Whether it’s booking a service or leaving a review, ensure there’s always a clear call to action on your pages.

How betterbunch can help

If you’re serious about improving your search ranking, betterbunch is here to help.

Our tools are designed to simplify the process of collecting reviews and feedback, which are essential for local SEO. We make it easy to automate review requests, so you don’t have to spend time chasing feedback from customers.

By improving your reviews, building your reputation, and optimising your Google Business Profile, betterbunch makes sure you’re not left behind in the search results.

And with our mobile-friendly solutions, you can rest assured that your business will be in tip-top shape to meet Google’s algorithm demands.

Final thoughts

Google’s search algorithm may be complex, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

By focusing on relevance, local SEO, mobile-friendliness, quality content, and user experience, you can significantly improve your business’s ranking. And with the right tools—like those provided by betterbunch—you can streamline the process and ensure your business shines in search results.

So, what are you waiting for? Start implementing these strategies today, and watch your business rise through the ranks!

If you need help managing reviews and feedback, betterbunch is here to support you every step of the way.