Getting Found Online: How to Make Sure Your Website Appears on Google

 Why Your Website Might Not Be Showing Up on Google

You already have a website — but it’s just not doing what it should. Maybe it’s buried pages deep in Google results, or worse, it doesn’t appear at all. You’re not alone.

Many small businesses in Sonoma County (and beyond) are stuck with outdated sites that simply don’t meet today’s search engine standards. Google’s algorithm has evolved dramatically over the past few years, and if your site hasn’t kept up, it’s likely being ignored.

Let’s break down why that happens — and how a modern, optimized redesign can turn things around.

Step 1: Make Sure Google Can Find and Index Your Site

Before your business can rank, Google needs to know your website exists — and understand what’s on it. This process is called indexing.

If your site was built years ago, it may not include the proper structure or code Google needs to crawl it effectively. Old platforms, broken links, and outdated settings can all prevent your pages from being indexed correctly.

Quick Fix:
Check if your website appears in search by typing  site:yourdomain.com   into Google. If nothing shows up, Google hasn’t indexed your site.

A modern rebuild will ensure your website has:

• A proper sitemap
• Search-friendly code
• Secure HTTPS protocol
• Updated robots.txt settings

All of which tell Google your site is legitimate, active, and ready to rank.

Step 2: Eliminate Technical SEO Problems

Older websites often have hidden technical issues that quietly destroy visibility.

Common problems include:

• Slow page loading times
• Non-mobile-friendly layouts
• Missing meta tags
• Poor navigation structure
• Outdated plugins or themes

Google prioritizes sites that offer a seamless user experience. If your website is clunky, broken, or slow, search engines will favor your competitors.

Quick Fix:
A full redesign allows these issues to be fixed at the foundation — not just patched on the surface. Fitz Designz rebuilds sites using modern frameworks and ongoing optimization to make sure every page loads fast, performs smoothly, and meets Google’s Core Web Vitals.

Step 3: Optimize for Local Search

Even a beautiful site won’t matter if it’s invisible to nearby customers. That’s where local SEO comes in.

If you serve Sonoma County, Santa Rosa, Petaluma, or any surrounding area, your site needs to be optimized for local intent.

That includes:

• An up-to-date Google Business Profile
• Consistent name, address, and phone number (NAP) listings
• Local keywords naturally integrated into your content
• Schema markup that helps Google understand your location

A professional redesign integrates these local signals from the start — positioning your business in Google’s Local Map Pack, where most customers click first.

Step 4: Update Your Content (and Keywords)

Your website content might still describe what you do, but Google doesn’t just care what you say — it cares how you say it.

Search engines rely on structured, keyword-driven content to understand your services and connect you with the right audience. If your copy hasn’t been refreshed in years, chances are it’s missing the words and context Google now expects.

Quick Fix:
During a redesign, we rebuild your content strategy around modern search behavior — including voice and AI search optimization. This helps Google match your website with customers who are actively looking for your exact services.

Step 5: Build Authority and Trust

Even with a new design and solid SEO, your site still needs to earn trust. Google rewards websites that demonstrate authority, activity, and relevance.

That means:

• Regularly updated content or blogs
• Backlinks from trusted local sites
• Positive online reviews
• Clean navigation and modern design



Outdated websites often look untrustworthy to both customers and algorithms. A redesign not only improves performance but also tells Google your business is credible, current, and worth showing to users.

Step 6: Modern SEO Takes Strategy and Patience

SEO isn’t magic — it’s momentum. A brand-new or redesigned site won’t jump to the top overnight, but when built correctly, it gains traction faster and stays visible longer.

Think of it as upgrading from a rusted bicycle to a tuned-up sports car. You’ll reach your audience faster and go farther with less effort — especially when paired with monthly marketing or local SEO management.

Outdated Websites Don’t Rank — Modern Ones Do

If your website isn’t showing up on Google, the problem isn’t just your SEO — it’s the foundation your site was built on. Search engines now prioritize speed, structure, and quality content, and older websites simply weren’t designed for that.

At Fitz Designz, we don’t just “fix” old sites — we rebuild them for today’s internet. Our designs combine stunning visuals, local optimization, and AI-driven SEO strategies to help your business stand out and stay visible.

If you’re ready to be found online, it’s time to start fresh. Contact Fitz Designz to schedule a redesign consultation and make sure your next website gets the visibility it deserves.