The Ultimate Guide to SEO Optimization for Google
- Crystal Waddell
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read

Boost Your Shopify or Wix Store Visibility Today
Are you a creative entrepreneur or side hustler struggling to get your Shopify or Wix store noticed on Google?
You’ve probably tried all the things—blogging, tweaking titles, maybe even dabbling with keywords.
But somehow, Google’s algorithm still feels like a mystery.
Good news:
You’re about to unlock insider strategies—straight from a top local SEO expert—that show exactly how to optimize for Google and your Google Business Profile.
Plus, we’ll reveal the critical ranking factor almost everyone overlooks.
🎯 Why This Matters: The Fast-Track to Getting Found on Google
Let’s face it: If your business isn’t showing up in Google search results, it might as well be invisible.
Whether you’re selling handmade jewelry, digital art prints, or offering creative consulting, SEO isn’t optional—it’s your digital storefront.
And when optimized correctly, Google becomes your best unpaid marketing employee.
Like Ryan, only he'll actually work and not steal from you. (As much!)
📌 What Is Google SEO Really About? (Hint: It’s Simpler Than You Think)
Forget complicated jargon.
At its core, SEO for Google is about helping search engines—and your ideal customers—understand:
Who you are
What you offer
Why they should trust you
This happens through a mix of on-page SEO, Google Business Profile optimization, and ongoing engagement signals.
🚀 Quick Wins: Google Business Profile Optimization Checklist (Straight from SEO Expert Darren Shaw)
Want to rank higher in local and organic Google results?
Here’s the hierarchy of importance when optimizing your Google Business Profile (GBP):
✅ Business Name (Critical!)
Include relevant keywords if they’re part of your real-world branding.
Example: Instead of “The Artisan Studio,” consider “[The Artisan Studio - Handmade Jewelry San Diego]”.
⚠️ Warning: Don’t keyword stuff—this could lead to profile suspension.
✅ Primary Category
Choose the most specific, relevant category possible (e.g., “Jewelry Designer” vs. “Retail Store”).
✅ Additional Categories
Cast a wider net with secondary services (e.g., “Gift Shop,” “Art Gallery”). This helps search engines understand more about your business.
✅ Reviews
Establish a simple system to gather fresh reviews consistently.
Tip: Aim for 2-4+ new reviews per month to stay ahead of competitors.
✅ Google Posts & Photos
Upload engaging photos weekly; Google reads images to understand your business better.
Post special offers, client testimonials, or behind-the-scenes stories.
✅ Services Section
Fill this out completely using keywords your ideal customers search for.
✅ Attributes
Highlight features like “Women-Owned Business” or “Online Appointments Available.”
💡 Pro Tip: Did you know Google favors profiles that show ongoing engagement? This includes uploading new content, photos, and regularly responding to reviews.

🎙️ Insider Secrets from the Podcast: What Google Really Looks For
In my recent interview with Darren Shaw (CEO of Whitespark and a leading Google SEO expert), he dropped this surprising truth:
“Your business name on Google is the #1 ranking factor. If you update it to include strategic keywords, you can literally watch your rankings explode overnight.”
But it doesn’t stop there. Darren also revealed:
Google cares more about review recency than total review count.
Consistent photo uploads help Google “understand” your business visually.
Engagement signals (like how long people view your profile) directly influence rankings—even though you can’t see those metrics yourself!
🗓️ The One-Hour-a-Week SEO Plan for Creative Entrepreneurs
Limited on time? Focus on these high-impact actions:
Collect Reviews – Send [Email/Text/DM] asking happy customers for Google reviews.
Create 1 Google Post – Highlight a product, promotion, or client success story.
Upload 3 New Photos – Showcase your workspace, products, or happy customers.
Update One Service Page – Add new content or improve keywords.
Audit Your Keywords – Use Google Search Console to find hidden ranking opportunities.
📈 Real-World Example: Joanne Hayes, JoHay Images:
"The SEO Squad's weekly strategy sessions have improved my online precence, attracting bigger clients like "Charlotte Event Photographer!"
Even better: after implementing these steps, Jo has booked out her event and fashion photography services for the next two months!
📢 Ready to Master Google SEO and Grow Your Business Faster?
If you’re tired of feeling invisible online and want a proven strategy to increase traffic and sales, it’s time to take the next step.
👉🏽 Book a Free Discovery Call and Join the SEO Squad Today!
Together, we’ll simplify your SEO, amplify your Google presence, and grow your Shopify or Wix store the smart way.
SEO Optimization: Google My Business, Final Notes
Catch my full interview with Darren Shaw of Whitespark.ca and get stay up to date with local SEO knowledge!
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