5 Ways that local businesses can increase click-through rates

Added 19.06.14
by SUKHBIR

Even if your small or local business ranks well on Google, that doesn’t automatically mean people will click through to your website. Ranking high in search engine results is important, but it’s only part of the equation. The other half is all about what users see when they come across your listing — and how compelling it is in that critical split second when they decide whether to click or scroll past.

Think of it this way: a top-ranking search result is like having the best location on a busy street. But if your storefront looks outdated or dull, people may still walk right by. Similarly, a bland, poorly written search snippet or an unattractive website preview can cause potential customers to skip over your business — costing you valuable traffic and sales opportunities.

At Zeemo, we understand how essential it is to not just get found, but to get clicked. That’s why we’ve outlined five smart, simple strategies to improve your website’s click-through rate (CTR). When more people click through to your site, you increase your chances of turning those visits into sales and growing your business.

local businesses can increase click through rates


  1. Make Your Homepage Titles More Attention-Grabbing
    Your website’s title tag is often the first thing users see in Google’s search results — it's the bold blue text that shows up as the clickable link. If your title only says your business name, you’re missing a huge opportunity to grab attention. Instead, rewrite your homepage title to include your core product or service. For example, instead of just “Taylor’s Plumbing,” try “Reliable Emergency Plumbing Services in Melbourne | Taylor’s Plumbing.” The added detail tells users what to expect and increases the likelihood they’ll click through.
     
  2. Highlight Sales or Special Offers in Your Meta Descriptions
    The meta description is the short paragraph beneath your title in search results. It’s prime real estate that should never go to waste. Rather than a generic blurb, use this space to showcase what makes your business special. Mention current discounts, limited-time offers, or free consultations. A compelling meta description acts like a mini ad and can be the deciding factor for users choosing between your site and a competitor’s.
     
  3. Update Meta Descriptions with Seasonal Messaging
    Stay relevant by aligning your content with seasonal events, holidays, or trends. For example, update your description with phrases like “Now Booking for Summer 2025” or “Holiday Specials Available This Month.” These small tweaks show users that your site is active, current, and timely — and that encourages more engagement.
     
  4. Add a Visual Element to Your Listing
    Including a photo — such as your business logo or a team picture — can make your search listing feel more personal and trustworthy. While the old Google+ photo integration is no longer active, you can still use tools like Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) to display images in local search results. A friendly, recognizable image can catch the eye and foster trust with new customers.
     
  5. Use PDFs to Your Advantage
    Don’t underestimate the power of downloadable resources. Uploading PDFs — such as product brochures, menus, service guides, or case studies — to your website can improve visibility for niche search terms. In some cases, PDFs rank separately in Google search and may even have a higher CTR than standard web pages. Make sure your PDFs are professionally branded, informative, and easy to access.
     

Final Thoughts

While these five tips can help significantly boost your CTR, they’re just the beginning. You might also explore adding visual content like videos, implementing breadcrumbs for smoother navigation, or using structured data (schema markup) to enhance your search listings with star ratings, FAQs, and more.

Improving your click-through rate means more than just getting seen — it means getting chosen. If you're ready to make your website stand out in search results, reach out to the team at Zeemo. Call us at 1300 881 594 to discover how we can help bring more qualified traffic to your site.