Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) can feel overwhelming, but the fundamentals are straightforward. Here's what actually matters for small businesses in 2025.
1. Speed is Everything
Google's Core Web Vitals measure your site's loading performance. Slow sites get penalised in rankings. A custom-built site on modern infrastructure loads in under 2 seconds—template sites often take 5-10 seconds.
2. Mobile-First Indexing
Google primarily uses the mobile version of your site for ranking. If your mobile experience is poor, your rankings suffer. Over 60% of searches now happen on mobile devices.
3. Local SEO for Local Businesses
If you serve a local area, claim your Google Business Profile. Ensure your NAP (Name, Address, Phone) is consistent across all platforms. Local keywords in your content help too.
4. Content Quality Over Quantity
One well-researched, helpful article outperforms ten thin blog posts. Answer real questions your customers ask. Google rewards expertise and helpfulness.
5. Technical Foundations
- SSL certificate (HTTPS) - essential for trust and rankings
- XML sitemap - helps search engines find your pages
- Proper heading structure (H1, H2, H3)
- Alt text on images for accessibility and SEO
- Schema markup for rich snippets
At Stockulate, every website we build includes these SEO fundamentals out of the box. No extra fees, no plugins required.