Initial Setup
• Set up Google Search Console and Bing Webmaster Tools to monitor performance and index coverage .
• Submit your Shopify sitemap.xml (automatically generated at yourstore.com/sitemap.xml ) to both tools .
• Install Google Analytics 4 for visitor tracking and engagement metrics .
• Enable SSL (HTTPS) for site security; Shopify includes SSL by default .
• Connect your store with Google Merchant Center if you run product feeds.
Keyword Research
• Use tools like Google Keyword Planner, Ahrefs, Ubersuggest, or SEMrush to find relevant and long-tail keywords .
• Focus on buyer-intent terms (e.g., “buy organic cotton hoodies”) .
• Analyze competitor keywords using Ahrefs or SEMrush for content inspiration .
• Categorize keywords by topic — homepage, product, collection, and blog opportunities.
On-Page SEO
• Optimize title tags (under 60 characters) with primary keywords and branding .
• Write alluring meta descriptions (under 160 characters) that summarize the offer .
• Use H1, H2, and H3 headings logically, embedding target keywords .
• Ensure unique product descriptions — avoid manufacturer duplicates .
• Add alt text for images describing the product concisely with context .
• Add review schema for products to display rich results in Google .
• Use internal links between products, collections, and blogs for authority flow .
• Optimize URLs for clarity: short, readable, and keyword-rich (e.g., /collections/mens-shoes ) .
Technical SEO
• Ensure fast load times through Shopify’s CDN and image compression .
• Remove or fix broken links and update redirects .
• Add structured data markup for Products, FAQs, and Reviews .
• Make your site mobile-first, since most traffic originates from mobile devices .
• Use canonical tags to avoid duplicate content between variants .
• Enable lazy loading for large images and videos.
• Regularly crawl your site using tools like Screaming Frog or Sitebulb.
Content Strategy
• Create SEO-friendly blog content targeting informational keywords .
• Build FAQ sections to capture voice search queries .
• Ensure every content piece serves either awareness, consideration, or decision stages.
• Use video and visual content like product demo clips, interactive infographics, or UGC .
• Replace repetitive copy with unique, value-added content .
Off-Page SEO
• Build high-quality backlinks through guest posting, PR features, and brand mentions .
• Leverage social channels for content amplification .
• Use Shopify apps like Yotpo or Judge.me to encourage and display verified reviews .
• Monitor link growth using Ahrefs or Moz.
Local SEO (if applicable)
• Set up and optimize your Google Business Profile .
• Include NAP (Name, Address, Phone) consistency across directories.
• Create location-specific landing pages for physical store chains .
• Add schema for LocalBusiness and embed a Google Map.
Bonus Tips
• Use AI writing tools (like Jasper or Copy.ai) for content ideation and optimization .
• Install Shopify apps like Smart SEO, Plug In SEO, or SEO Manager for ongoing scans .
• Continuously re-audit and adapt based on performance reports in Search Console.