Originally published in July 2023, this blog has been updated to reflect the latest data available.If you’re running a business, chances are you’ve wondered how to get your website noticed online. Search engines like Google are the bridge between your business and potential customers, helping them find exactly what they need - and ideally, leading them to your site. But how do these platforms decide which websites to show at the top of their results, and how can you ensure yours is among them?In this blog, we’ll walk you through how search engines work, step by step. You’ll learn how they crawl and index your website, assess its relevance, and rank it in search results. We’ll also explore how advancements like AI and conversational search are transforming the search landscape - and what this means for your business.Let's dive in!Search Engines at a GlanceSearch engines have come a long way from simple query results to rich, AI-driven experiences. But understanding how they work at their core is still essential for businesses aiming to stay visible.At their core, search engines are like digital librarians. They organise the vast amount of information on the internet and connect users with the most relevant content for their queries. Whether it’s Google, Bing, or DuckDuckGo, all search engines work towards the same goal: helping users find what they’re looking for as quickly and accurately as possible.For businesses, this means search engines are often the first touchpoint between you and your potential customers. In fact, 68% of online experiences start with a search engine, making it crucial for your website to appear when your audience is searching for solutions you offer.While Google dominates the global search engine market with a ~90% of market share, it’s not the only player. Search engines like Bing and DuckDuckGo serve niche audiences, offering unique features like enhanced privacy or rewards programs. In some regions, alternative search engin...