SEO basics for creative entrepreneurs

You put hours, love and endless amounts of energy into your work. You're building a website you're proud of, putting your best projects online and... then? Then you hope that the right people know how to find you. But to be honest: without a little help, you quickly disappear among all the other beautiful things on the internet. And that's where SEO comes in.

Sounds like a technical thing? Don't worry. At its core, SEO is about one simple goal: making sure your work is found by the right people, at the right time. No abracadabra, but a smart way to boost your online visibility.

In this blog, we share how you, as a creative entrepreneur, can get started with SEO in an easy and practical way. So that your work is not only seen, but also really touches you.

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1. See through your customer's eyes

SEO doesn't start with Google. It starts with your customer. Because what would they actually look for if they were looking for what you do? Chances are that they are not typing in “artistic visual experience”, but something like “portrait photographer Rotterdam'.

It's all about putting yourself in their shoes for a moment. What's going on in their head? What do they want to find? And how can you connect with that with your words?

Small assignment:

Grab a pen and paper (or open a note on your phone) and write down 5 to 10 words or phrases that your ideal customer is likely to use. Think simple, human and practical. Then incorporate them naturally into your web texts, as if you were having a conversation. No tricks, just clear and recognisable.

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2. Behind the scenes: how to make sure your website is technically accurate

A website may still look as good, if it loads slowly or doesn't work well on mobile, visitors (and Google) will drop out just as quickly. Fortunately, there are a few basics you can check quickly.

🔧 Speed is key

No one wants to wait. By optimizing images smartly, your site loads super fast and keeps the flow nice.

📱 Mobile? Of course!

Most visitors are scrolling via their phones these days. Make sure your site runs as smoothly as it does on the desktop.

🔒 Safety first

A lock in the browser (HTTPS) gives trust and Google appreciates you for it.

Do you work with Webflow? Then you're in the right place (and, of course, we really like this 😜). A lot of technical SEO is automatically neatly arranged. That in turn saves stress and time.

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3. Content that scores

Want to be visible in Google? Then you must have something to say. Valuable, up-to-date content is the way to showcase your expertise and attract your ideal customer.

📝 Just write

Whether it's a blog, update, or customer story, share what you do, know, and what makes you happy. Regular posting keeps your website vibrant and relevant.

🔍 Smart heads

Use clear titles that include your keywords. This way, Google knows exactly what your story is about.

🙋 ‍ ♀️ Answers to real questions

Remember: what is your target group looking for? Answer sincerely, share your knowledge and show that you understand what is going on.

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4. The image says it all. Except for Google

As a creative entrepreneur, you're probably working with beautiful images. But did you know that Google doesn't just understand those photos? Don't worry, with a few smart steps, you'll help search engines and make your site more accessible.

🖼 File names with a story

Call your images what they are. So rather portretfotograaf-rotterdam.jpg then IMG_1234.jpg. This way, Google understands what your image is about.

🔤 Alt text: small detail, big difference

A good alt text briefly describes what is shown in the photo. That's great for SEO and great for people who use a screen reader.

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5. Show me (and link)

SEO isn't just about what's on your own website, a lot happens outside your site, too. The more trustworthy sites link to you, the better Google finds you. Good news: you can easily arrange that yourself.

📍 Google Business = must

A Google Business profile is created quickly and helps you to be more visible locally. Bonus: you also look professional right away.

🤝 Ask for a link

Have you worked with a customer, partner, or platform? Ask them to mention you with a link to your site. Little effort, big effect.

📣 Share what you're proud of

Publish your blogs, cases, or news on LinkedIn and other socials. More visibility = more chance of getting valuable links.

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Finally: being visible is easier than you think

SEO may sound technical, but it's mostly about communicating smartly and clearly. No rocket science, but a difference maker for your visibility.

Start small. Think from your customer's point of view. Make sure your website is technically sound like a rock. And keep sharing content that really adds value.

This is how your website not only beautiful to look at, but also a powerful magnet for the right customers.