SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, is the practice of enhancing a website's visibility on search engines like Google. It’s important because higher visibility leads to more organic traffic, which can increase conversions and ultimately drive business growth.

SEO is a long-term strategy, and it typically takes 3 to 6 months to start seeing significant results. Factors such as the competitiveness of the industry, the current state of the website, and the quality of the SEO efforts can all influence the timeline.

 Small businesses can benefit from local SEO strategies, such as optimizing their Google My Business listing, using location-based keywords, and acquiring local backlinks. Additionally, creating high-quality content and engaging with the local community through social media can enhance visibility.

Success can be measured through various metrics, including organic traffic, keyword rankings, conversion rates, and bounce rates. Tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console can provide valuable insights into your website's performance and the effectiveness of your SEO strategies.