How-To: Do It Yourself, or Let Me Do It for Less
This section of SO SEO is here to show you exactly how to handle the simple-but-important jobs that help your business show up online. Things like setting up your Google Business Profile, improving your website copy, or writing the kind of blog posts that actually help you rank.
Most of these tasks aren’t difficult - but they do take a bit of time, and that’s something many small business owners just don’t have to spare.
The truth is, a lot of directories and agencies charge way over the odds for doing this stuff. £150 just to get set up, then £75 a month to keep you there - and half the time, they’re not even doing much.
That’s why I started SO SEO. If you want to do it yourself, the guides here will walk you through it step by step. And if you'd rather hand it off, I’ll do it for a fair price, with no fluff, no long contracts, and no pressure.
The Local Business Website Blueprint: How to Build a Site That Brings in Customers
Want a website that actually brings in local customers? Here’s the full blueprint, from homepage to blog, for building a small business website that shows up and converts.
What Is SSL? Why Your Website Needs That Little Padlock in the Address Bar
What is SSL, and does your local business website really need it? Here's why that little padlock in the address bar matters for trust, security, and SEO, and how to get it set up (usually for free).
Why Your Website Needs a Privacy Policy and Terms Page (Even if You’re a Local Business)
Even small, local businesses need a privacy policy and terms page. Learn why they matter, what to include, and how to stay compliant under UK law.
Can Social Media Help Your SEO? (Here’s What It Actually Does)
Think social media boosts your SEO? Here’s what it actually does (and doesn’t) for your rankings - and how local businesses in the SO area can use it wisely.
What Is a Citation in SEO? (And Do You Need Them Anymore?)
Citations still matter for local SEO - but not like they used to. Here’s what they are, why they matter, and whether your business still needs them today.
How to Use Google Search Console (Without Getting Overwhelmed)
Google Search Console can be confusing at first, but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s how local businesses can use it to boost their SEO, without the overwhelm.
What Is a Local Landing Page? (And Do You Need One?)
Local landing pages help your business show up in nearby searches like “plumber in Southampton.” Here’s what they are, how they work, and whether you actually need one.
Should I Pay for Social Media Followers? (And What Really Builds Local Trust Online)
Buying followers might boost your numbers - but it won’t help you show up locally. Here’s what actually builds trust and visibility in your area.
How to Write and Publish a Blog Post on Your Website (That People Actually Find and Read)
Starting a blog post on your website? Here’s a full step-by-step guide to doing it properly - from topic ideas to SEO and sharing it online.
What Is the Directory Trap? Why It’s Hurting Your Local SEO
Think more directories = better SEO? Think again. The "Directory Trap" could be harming your local rankings - here’s how to avoid it and what to do instead.
Should I Pay Someone for Backlinks? (What Local Businesses Need to Know)
Not all backlinks help your local SEO. Here’s what to know before paying for a link - and what actually works for small, local businesses.
Can People Find Your Website on Google? Here’s How to Check (Free Google Tool)
Wondering if your site shows up on Google? Learn how to check with a free tool from Google - and what to do if your site isn’t being found.
Backlinks: What They Are and Why Your Local Business Needs Them
Not sure what a backlink is? Find out how backlinks help your local business rank higher on Google - and how to start getting them without the jargon.
How to Structure a Service Page That Brings in Local Customers
Want more local leads? Learn how to structure a service page that ranks in search results and converts local visitors into paying customers.
How Long Does SEO Take? What to Expect (and What to Ignore)
Wondering how long SEO takes? Here's what to expect in your first 3–12 months - and what to ignore if you want results that last.
Homepage Headlines That Actually Make People Stick Around (With Secret Formula)
Your homepage headline is the first thing most visitors see — and it could be the reason they stay (or bounce). Here’s how to write one that actually works.
What Does Google Actually Want From Your Website?
Confused about SEO? Here’s what Google actually looks for on your website - in plain English. Useful tips for local businesses that want to show up online.
The One Local SEO Task You Should Do Every Month (That’s Totally Free)
Want a quick, free way to boost your local SEO? This 5-step Google Business Profile update takes 10 minutes a month - and helps you show up in local search.
How Blogging Can Help Your Local Business Show Up Online
Wondering if your local business needs a blog? The short answer: yes! A blog helps boost your local SEO, rank for specific keywords, and connect with your community. Find out how to get started.
How to Create a Google Business Profile (And Actually Show Up in Search)
A simple guide to setting up your Google Business Profile properly. Show up in local searches and get found - without paying a directory a penny.