The Benefits of SEO for Small Businesses in New Zealand
When it comes to SEO, the numbers don’t lie. The top 3 organic results on the first page get around 55% of all clicks. While only 0.63% of Google searchers clicked on something from the second page.
The majority of users do not proceed beyond the first page of search results. And when users don't find an answer on the first page, they often change their search query or look elsewhere rather than going to the next Google pages.
Which is why Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) is key to improving your visibility in search engine results and attracting more visitors to your website – without paying for ads. But how exactly does effective SEO benefit small businesses in New Zealand?
Let’s break down five benefits of SEO with some simple examples:
1. Boost Organic Traffic (Free Website Visitors)
SEO is all about improving your website’s visibility by optimising its structure, content, and links to align with search engine algorithms like Google’s. This organic (non-paid) traffic is not only free but also highly valuable because it comes from people actively searching for what you offer.
Example: A boutique bakery in Grey Lynn optimise their website for keywords like “Auckland gluten-free birthday cakes,” their website starts appearing on the first page of Google search results. This organic traffic leads to more online orders without them needing to spend on paid ads.
2. Build Trust and Credibility
When your business appears at the top of search results, it sends a signal to potential customers that your business is credible and trustworthy. Some research shows that 62% of consumers disregard businesses they can’t find online. By optimising your website for SEO, you not only increase visibility but also build trust with potential customers.
Example: ‘An eco-friendly tour company optimise their website, so it appears at the top of searches like “eco-tours New Zealand” and “sustainable travel NZ.” This visibility reassures environmentally conscious travellers they are a reputable company offering high-quality eco-friendly experiences.
3. Reach Local Customers with Local SEO
If your business relies on local customers, local SEO is a must. When people search for products or services near them – such as “iPhone screen repairs in Auckland” – local SEO helps your business appear in those search results. A strong presence in local searches can also drive foot traffic, especially when users find you on Google My Business or in “near me” searches.
Example: A hair salon in Dunedin optimise their Google My Business profile – including address, phone number, and business hours. The salon starts appearing when people search for “haircuts Dunedin”, significantly increasing foot traffic.
4. Capitalise on Mobile and Voice Search
With the increase in mobile and voice searches, Kiwi businesses need to be optimised for these growing trends. Searches for “near me” businesses have grown by 500% in recent years, and 58% of consumers use voice search to find local businesses. SEO helps ensure you’re visible to those on-the-go, mobile users, and voice-activated searchers.
Example: A mobile car detailing service in Auckland optimise their website for mobile users and by including key phrases like “mobile car cleaning Auckland,” they attract customers searching for services while commuting or at work. Many also find them through voice search queries like “car wash near me,” – increasing the database.
5. Drive Customer Engagement Through Online Reviews
Online reviews play a big role in local SEO. Around 90% of customers read reviews before making a decision, and businesses with positive reviews are trusted by over 70% of consumers. By optimising for local SEO, you’re more likely to get customer reviews and create social proof that encourages more people to engage with your business.
Example: A café in Napier encourages satisfied customers to leave Google reviews, gaining more positive feedback, which improves local search rankings for terms like “best café Napier.” New customers are more likely to visit after reading the glowing reviews online.
Why Invest in SEO?
Investing in SEO means investing in long-term growth for your business. It helps you stay competitive, attract more customers, and build a strong online presence that keeps people coming back. In a world where more and more Kiwis rely on online searches to find local businesses, it’s time to take SEO seriously.
If you're ready to grow your business online, reach out to us today and let’s chat about how SEO can help you get in front of more customers.