Frequently Asked Questions

  • SEO is a gradual process that builds momentum over time. Most businesses start seeing initial improvements within 2-3 months, with more significant results appearing after 6-12 months of consistent work.


    In the first month, we focus on optimising your website and Google Business Profile. Month 2 is when search engines begin indexing your improvements and you may notice early ranking movements. By month 3, you should see clearer progress in search visibility and enquiries.


    The timeline depends on your industry competition, current website state, and target keywords. Local businesses often see faster results than those targeting highly competitive national terms.

  • SEO helps your business appear in search results across wider areas or for general terms. Local SEO focuses specifically on helping customers find you when they search for services "near me" or in specific locations.


    Local SEO includes optimising your Google Business Profile, managing reviews, ensuring your business appears in local map results, and targeting location-specific keywords like "plumber in Manchester" rather than just "plumber".


    For most service businesses, local SEO delivers faster results and higher-quality enquiries because it targets customers actively looking for services in your area.

  • Most SEO improvements happen behind the scenes without changing how your website looks or functions. We optimise page titles, descriptions, and technical elements that search engines read but customers don't see.


    However, clearer service pages and location-specific content often improve both search rankings and customer conversions. If your website doesn't clearly explain what you do or where you work, some content updates will help both search engines and potential customers.


    We always discuss any visible changes with you before making them, and most clients find the improvements make their website clearer and more effective at converting visitors into enquiries.

  • Keyword rankings - how you appear for the search terms that matter most

    Local search visibility - your presence in map results and location-based searches

    Website traffic - more qualified visitors finding your services

    Enquiry quality - better leads from people actively searching for your services

    Competitor comparison - how you stack up against local competitors


    You'll receive monthly reports showing your progress across these areas, plus access to a dashboard where you can check your rankings anytime. Most importantly, we focus on metrics that translate into real business enquiries, not just vanity numbers.

  • AI search refers to how tools like ChatGPT, Google's AI, and voice assistants find and recommend businesses when people ask questions like "Who's the best electrician near me?" or "I need a reliable accountant".


    These AI tools are increasingly influencing how customers discover and choose businesses. They scan websites, reviews, and online information to understand what you do and when to recommend you.


    AI search optimisation ensures these tools can clearly understand your services, location, and expertise, so you get recommended when potential customers ask relevant questions. It's becoming as important as traditional Google search for business visibility.

  • Basic SEO tasks like updating your Google Business Profile and writing clear service pages can be done yourself. However, effective SEO requires ongoing technical knowledge, content creation, link building, and constant monitoring of algorithm changes.


    Most business owners find DIY SEO takes time away from running their business, and mistakes can actually harm their rankings. Professional SEO also provides access to premium tools, industry connections, and expertise that's difficult to replicate alone.


    If you have limited time and want consistent results, professional SEO typically delivers better ROI than trying to manage it yourself while running your business.

  • Common issues include incomplete business information, poor quality photos, no customer reviews, irregular posting, or incorrect service descriptions. Many profiles also lack the detail customers need to choose you over competitors.


    An optimised profile includes professional photos, detailed service descriptions, accurate opening hours, regular posts showing your work, positive customer reviews, and clear contact information. Small improvements to these areas often make a significant difference to enquiry levels.


    We also check if your profile appears for the right search terms and in the correct location radius. Sometimes the issue isn't the profile itself, but how search engines understand what you do and where you serve.

  • SEO investment varies based on your business size, competition level, and growth goals. Most local businesses benefit from £300-£1,000 monthly for effective SEO that includes content creation, technical optimisation, and ongoing monitoring.


    One-off projects like SEO audits typically range from £150-£500, while comprehensive monthly packages that include content, optimisation, and reporting start around £450 per month.


    The key is ensuring your SEO investment generates more enquiries than it costs. Good SEO should pay for itself through increased business within 3-6 months.

  • Our SEO & Visibility Health Check reviews how your business appears across all the places customers might find you:


    Website analysis - technical issues, page speed, mobile-friendliness, content clarity

    Google Business Profile audit - completeness, optimisation opportunities, local search visibility

    Competitor comparison - how you stack up against local competition

    Review and reputation analysis - what customers see when they research your business

    AI search visibility - how AI tools understand and recommend your business

    Technical SEO review - behind-the-scenes factors affecting your search visibility


    You'll receive a comprehensive report showing exactly what's working, what's missing, and the specific steps needed to improve your online visibility.

  • Signs your SEO is working include improved Google rankings for your target search terms, increased website traffic from search engines, more enquiries from people who found you online, and better visibility in local map results.


    You should also see your Google Business Profile getting more views, clicks, and enquiries. If you're tracking keywords, you'll notice gradual improvements in your positions over 3-6 months.


    Red flags include no ranking improvements after 6 months, declining website traffic, or an agency that can't show you clear progress reports. Good SEO delivers measurable improvements that you can see in both reports and real business enquiries.