For most local customers, the journey starts with a Google search. Within a few seconds of landing on your website, they decide whether to call you or go back to the search results. These ten essentials make sure they stay.
1. A Clear Headline That Says What You Do
Visitors should know what you do and where you do it within five seconds. A headline like "Licensed Electricians in Mt Eden" beats a vague slogan every time.
2. Your Phone Number Where People Can Tap It
Put your phone number at the top of every page, and make it tap-to-call on mobile. Many local customers want to ring you, not fill out a form.
3. A Mobile-Friendly Design
Most local searches happen on phones. If your site is hard to read or use on a small screen, customers will leave and Google will rank you lower.
4. Fast Loading Speed
Slow websites lose visitors before the page even appears. Optimised images, modern hosting and clean code keep your site quick on mobile data as well as Wi-Fi.
5. A Clear List of Services
List each service you offer, ideally with its own section or page. This helps customers find what they need and helps Google understand when to show your site.
6. Your Service Area
Mention the suburbs and towns you cover. Local search terms such as "builder North Shore" are how many customers find businesses near them.
7. Reviews and Social Proof
Show your Google reviews, testimonials, photos of completed work, and any qualifications or memberships. Trust is what turns a visitor into a caller.
8. A Simple Way to Get in Touch
Offer a short contact form, a phone number and, if it suits your business, online booking. The fewer steps between interest and enquiry, the more enquiries you'll get.
9. Basic SEO Done Properly
Every page needs a clear title, a meta description, proper headings and fast load times. Connecting your site with your Google Business Profile helps you show up in local map results.
10. Security and Upkeep
An SSL certificate (the padlock in the browser) is essential, and your content should be kept current. Outdated prices, old photos or a copyright year from 2019 make customers wonder if you're still trading.
How Does Your Site Measure Up?
If your website is missing several of these, it's likely costing you enquiries. The good news is that a modern, professional site no longer requires a large upfront investment.
Our AI-built websites cover every item on this list, start from NZ$99 per month plus GST, and you can see a free preview of your new site before committing to anything. Visit our Websites page to request yours.
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