SEO Specialist
Job Description:An SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) specialist makes a company more visible online by boosting its position in results on search engines.
Job Category:What you will do:
Your day-to-day duties could include:
- using programming languages like Javascript to make your company’s website more visible
- running PPC (pay-per-click) campaigns online
- creating sponsored social media campaigns to boost your company’s engagement
- monitoring the analytics from your website to see if your tactics are working
- reporting on these analytics and presenting reports to managers
- working with other companies to integrate links (called affiliate links) to your company on their platform
- staying up to date with algorithm changes and adjusting your SEO accordingly
Skills:
You’ll need:
- knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software including programming languages and coding
- knowledge of English language
As well as:
- flexibility, so you can adapt your methods when you need to (adaptability skills)
- good communication skills
- a sales-minded approach
- research skills & an interest in analysing data
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to use your initiative (drive)
- analytical thinking skills
- the ability to come up with new ways of doing things (creative skills)
- the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
Entry Requirements:
To become an SEO (Search Engine Optimization) Specialist, you don’t typically need specific GCSE subjects, as SEO specialists come from various educational backgrounds. However, you can focus on subjects that will help you develop relevant skills and knowledge for the field. Here are some subjects that can be beneficial if you want to become an SEO Specialist:
- English Language: A strong command of written English is crucial for creating high-quality content and optimising websites for search engines.
- Mathematics: Although not directly related to SEO, mathematical skills can be helpful for data analysis and understanding analytics tools.
- Information Technology (IT): IT subjects can provide a foundation for understanding how websites and online platforms function, which is essential for SEO.
- Business Studies: Understanding business principles and marketing can be valuable in the context of SEO, as it involves marketing strategies and return on investment (ROI) considerations.
Post School
This position is usually available to those with a degree. It’s not essential for this to be in a related subject, but subjects like Marketing or IT might be beneficial.
You could also apply with a Higher National Diploma, foundation degree or qualification of a similar level, but significant extra experience will normally be needed.
It would be a big advantage to be familiar with coding.
Working Hours and Environment:
Most full-time SEO specialists work eight hours a day, Monday to Friday. Hours may be longer towards deadlines or busy periods. There are often part-time or shared roles available in this position too.
Work could be based in an office, remotely, or a combination of both.
Career Path & Progression:
You could progress to an SEO manager role, and eventually, a Head of digital marketing or a similar senior position. You could use your experience to apply for similar roles like, for example, Marketing executive or one of the roles listed to the right.