5 (Free!) Things Founders Can Do to Boost Their SEO Right Now 

If you’re a founder, SEO might feel like one more thing on your already-full plate. But there are some quick, effective, and 100% free steps you can take right now to get your SEO moving in the right direction. Here are five things you can start doing today to boost your visibility on Google and connect with more customers.

1. Set Up Google Analytics and Google Search Console

As soon as your website is live, make sure you’ve set up Google Analytics and Google Search Console. These tools are essential for tracking your site’s performance and SEO data.

What is Google Analytics?


Google Analytics gives you detailed information about where your website traffic is coming from and how visitors behave on your site. Even if you’re not diving into the data every day, having Analytics running in the background will provide historical data that’s invaluable when you’re ready to make strategic decisions like… what decisions? Like keywords?

What is Google Search Console?


Google Search Console focuses specifically on your website’s presence in Google search results. It shows you what keywords are bringing visitors to your site, how many times you’re appearing in searches, and where you rank for those searches. This tool gives you a direct view of how Google “sees” your site, making it easier to improve your SEO over time.

2. Submit Your Sitemap to Google Search Console

A sitemap is like a roadmap for Google, helping it understand and navigate your site more effectively. Submitting your sitemap is simple and ensures your pages are indexed correctly. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide:

How to Add Your Sitemap to Google Search Console:

  1. Generate Your Sitemap


    Go to your website URL and add /sitemap.xml at the end. This URL should lead you to your site’s sitemap (e.g., www.yourwebsite.com/sitemap.xml).

  2. Copy the Sitemap URL


    Copy the entire URL from your browser’s address bar.

  3. Go to Google Search Console


    Log into your Google Search Console account and select your website property.

  4. Navigate to the “Sitemaps” Section


    On the left-hand side, click on “Sitemaps.”

  5. Submit the URL


    Paste the sitemap URL into the “Add a new sitemap” field and click “Submit.”

That’s it! Google will now have an easier time crawling your website, and you’ll be notified if there are any issues with indexing your pages.

3. Find Your Ideal Keyword

Identifying the right keyword for your business is essential for SEO. Think of this as the term your customers are searching for when they need your services. For example, If you're a startup SaaS company helping small businesses manage their invoices, a good starting keyword might be “invoice management software for small businesses.”

How to Use Your Keyword:


Once you’ve chosen your keyword, make sure it’s visible in key places on your website, like the meta title and H1 header on your homepage. These elements are the first things Google checks when it’s trying to understand what your site is about, so include your keyword to give yourself a boost.

4. Start Blogging to Answer Your Customers’ Questions

Blogging is still one of the most effective (and free) ways to improve your SEO. Think about the questions your customers frequently ask or questions you wish they’d ask so they could better understand your services. Each question can become a blog post, allowing you to show up in search results and connect with potential clients looking for those answers.

Pro Tip:


Make a list of common customer questions as your blogging roadmap. Answering these questions in your own voice will not only build trust but also help you rank higher for those specific queries.

5. Build Backlinks

Backlinks (when another site links to yours) are a valuable asset for SEO because they signal to Google that your website is credible. The more quality backlinks you have, the more authority your site builds over time.

How to Build Backlinks


Start by connecting with “power partners” other businesses or professionals in your network who are willing to feature your content or let you guest post on their site. Any time you’re mentioned in the news, on a podcast, or at a conference, ask for a link back to your website. These backlinks will boost your SEO and give you valuable tracking insights.

Have Questions About Your SEO? 

If you’re looking for help with your SEO strategy, be sure to reach out! As a member of the BIC, you get access to free mentoring and strategy sessions with me (and tons of other huge perks!) 

About Jade Pruett



Jade Pruett is the founder of HelloSEO, a boutique agency dedicated to helping small businesses and startups get noticed in Google search results. With nearly a decade of SEO experience, including managing SEO for industry giants like CNN and Business Insider, Jade brings deep expertise and a practical, hands-on approach to digital visibility. Known for her engaging, fully transparent style, Jade empowers founders to build long-lasting online success through smart, effective SEO strategies. Whether you're just getting started or looking to reach the next level, Jade’s guidance can help your business shine where it matters most: right at the top of Google.