SEO Setup Checklist for Small Business Websites

SEO doesn't need to be complicated.

At its core, search engine optimisation is simply about helping search engines understand your website and helping the right people find it.

This checklist covers the foundational elements every small business website should review.

Keywords & Search Intent

☐ Identify your primary services

☐ List 5–10 search phrases your ideal clients may use

☐ Consider location-based keywords if you serve a local area

☐ Research competitor websites

☐ Identify common questions clients ask

☐ Reflection Prompt

☐ What would your ideal client type into Google to find your services?

Page Titles & Meta Descriptions

☐ Create a unique SEO title for every page

☐ Create a unique meta description for every page

☐ Include primary keywords naturally

☐ Ensure titles accurately describe page content

☐ Keep titles clear and human-friendly

Content Optimisation

☐ Include relevant keywords naturally throughout content

☐ Use clear page headings

☐ Structure content logically

☐ Answer common client questions

☐ Focus on helpful content rather than search engine tricks

Images

☐ Rename image files before uploading

☐ Add descriptive alt text

☐ Optimise image sizes

☐ Avoid uploading unnecessarily large files

Technical SEO

☐ Connect Google Search Console

☐ Connect Google Analytics

☐ Ensure SSL is active

☐ Confirm the website is mobile-friendly

☐ Submit a sitemap

☐ Check website speed

Local SEO

☐ Claim your Google Business Profile

☐ Ensure business details are consistent

☐ Add location information where relevant

☐ Encourage reviews

☐ Add local service areas

Internal Linking

☐ Link related pages together

☐ Link related resources together

☐ Guide visitors towards useful next steps

☐ Create clear calls to action

Content Strategy

☐ Create helpful articles

☐ Develop a resource library

☐ Regularly update website content

☐ Answer frequently asked questions

☐ Add new content consistently

SEO is rarely about doing one thing perfectly. It is the result of many small improvements made consistently over time. 

Focus on creating a helpful, easy-to-use website and the foundations of good SEO will naturally follow.

If you are looking for further assistance with your SEO or would like an SEO review of your current business' website. You may like to explore my Digital Grove or Flame Keeper pathways for ongoing support and assistance with your valuable business asset.