If you run a small business in North Brisbane, you have probably heard that you need to be on Google. But between running your day to day operations, managing staff, and keeping customers happy, who has time to figure out all this SEO stuff?
The good news is that ranking higher on Google does not have to be complicated or expensive. In fact, some of the most effective strategies cost nothing but a bit of your time. Here are five practical ways to help your local business get found by more customers in 2026.
1. Claim and Optimise Your Google Business Profile
This is the single most important thing you can do for local SEO, and it is completely free. Your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is what shows up when someone searches for businesses like yours on Google Maps or in the local pack results.
If you have not claimed your profile yet, head to business.google.com and do it today. If you already have one, make sure it is fully filled out. That means adding your business hours, phone number, website, services, and plenty of photos. Google loves profiles that are complete, and so do potential customers.
Here in North Brisbane, we see businesses in Dakabin, Kallangur, North Lakes, and surrounding suburbs missing out on local customers simply because their profile is incomplete or outdated. Do not let that be you.
- Add at least 10 high quality photos of your business, team, and work
- Write a detailed business description using words your customers would search for
- Keep your hours updated, especially around public holidays
- Add all your services or products with descriptions
- Post updates at least once a month to show Google your profile is active
2. Use Local Keywords on Your Website
When people search for a business, they usually include their location. Think about it. You probably search for things like plumber North Lakes or cafe near Petrie rather than just plumber or cafe.
Your website needs to include these local keywords naturally throughout your pages. This tells Google where you are based and who you serve. But here is the key word: naturally. Do not stuff your pages with location names. Write like you are talking to a customer, and mention your service area where it makes sense.
For example, instead of writing We offer plumbing services, try We offer plumbing services across North Brisbane, including Dakabin, Kallangur, Murrumba Downs, and North Lakes. It reads well, and it helps Google understand your coverage area.
3. Make Your Website Mobile Friendly and Fast
More than half of all Google searches now happen on mobile phones. If your website is slow to load or hard to use on a phone, you are losing customers before they even get a chance to see what you offer.
Google has made it clear that mobile experience and page speed are ranking factors. That means a slow, clunky website will struggle to rank well, no matter how good your other SEO efforts are.
Here is a quick test. Pull out your phone and visit your own website. Does it load in under three seconds? Can you easily tap buttons and read text without zooming? Is your phone number clickable so people can call you directly? If you answered no to any of these, your website needs some attention.
4. Get More Google Reviews (and Respond to Them)
Reviews are gold for local SEO. When someone searches for a business, Google shows star ratings right in the search results. A business with fifty five star reviews is going to get more clicks than one with three reviews, every single time.
But here is what many business owners miss. It is not just about having reviews. Google also looks at how recent they are and whether you respond to them. A business that regularly gets new reviews and takes the time to reply looks active and engaged.
The best way to get more reviews is simply to ask. After you complete a job or sale, send a follow up message thanking the customer and including a direct link to your Google review page. Make it as easy as possible for them.
5. Create Helpful Content That Answers Real Questions
Google wants to show people the most helpful, relevant results for their search. One of the best ways to prove you are helpful is to create content that answers the questions your customers are actually asking.
Think about the questions you get asked all the time. How much does a service cost? How long does it take? What should I look for when choosing a provider? These are the exact questions people are typing into Google. If your website answers them, you have a chance to show up in those results.
Start With One Thing
If this list feels overwhelming, do not try to do everything at once. Pick one thing and do it properly. For most businesses, starting with your Google Business Profile gives you the biggest return for your effort. Once that is sorted, move on to the next item.
SEO is a long game. The businesses that succeed are the ones that make small, consistent improvements over time rather than looking for quick fixes.
Need a Hand Getting Started?
If you would rather focus on running your business and leave the SEO to someone else, we are here to help. At Red Ox Digital, we specialise in helping North Brisbane small businesses get found online. Based right here in Dakabin, we understand the local market and what it takes to stand out.
Book a free discovery call today and let us talk about your goals. No pressure, no jargon. Just honest advice about what will work for your business.