what is an SEO specialist?

As a search engine optimisation specialist, you analyse a client's website to determine areas for improvement. You analyse the search engine optimisation and implement the necessary changes to improve the website's rankings. As an SEO specialist, you work in-house as a company employee or for a consulting firm that offers SEO services to clients.

SEO specialists are experts in writing search-engine optimised copies and have extensive knowledge in keyword research. If a company relies on the website to make sales, an SEO specialist improves web traffic to increase sales and revenue.

what does an SEO specialist do?

If a company's website is not attracting targeted visitors and converting leads to customers, as an SEO specialist, you find ways to improve the outcomes of the website. You should find solutions to improve conversions and increase sales. When reviewing a website, it is important to understand its goals and compare them with performances. You should also understand your target audience before finding strategies to improve search engine rankings. Some strategies include adding content with specific keywords, rewriting HTML title tags and obtaining high-quality inbound links. You also test the website layout and optimise speed to increase conversion.

Would working in marketing as an SEO specialist suit your technical skills and exceptional marketing abilities? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in an SEO specialist role.

SEO specialist jobs
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average salary of an SEO specialist

According to ONS, the average compensation package for SEO specialists is £32,500 per year. In entry-level positions, you earn £27,500 annually, while experienced SEO specialists take home over £45,000 yearly. The compensation package may be inclusive of various allowances and benefits. Some employers have medical and transport allowances, bonuses and other benefits.

what factors affect the salary of an SEO specialist?

The salary of an SEO specialist depends on work experience and company size. The compensation package usually increases gradually with your experience and qualifications. The employer usually considers the years you have worked when determining the salary structure. On the lower scale are those new in the field due to their minimal experience. However, the compensation package increases significantly over time as you accumulate experience. The employers you work for also determine the compensation package. When you work for a small start-up, your earnings may be slightly lower due to the limited resources in the company. Large companies have better compensation packages due to the unlimited resources and complexity of the roles. You also take on complex duties in large organisations, increasing your compensation package.

 

male having a conversation. Smiling. Two female in the foreground smiling.
male having a conversation. Smiling. Two female in the foreground smiling.
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types of SEO specialists

Some of the types of SEO specialists include:

  • on-page SEO specialist: as an on-page SEO specialist, you conduct search engine optimisation on the site or page. You optimise the on-site ranking factors to improve visibility and drive traffic to the website. You work on the meta descriptions, keywords, images and meta titles. Some of the activities for successful on-page SEO are keyword research, building internal links and writing quality content.
  • off-page SEO specialist: as an off-page SEO specialist, you focus on all SEO activities outside the website to improve rankings. For instance, you write guest blogs to generate backlinks to your website. You also use search engine marketing tools like internet ads to improve traffic.
  • technical SEO specialist: as a technical SEO specialist, you improve the technical aspects of a website to boost the user experience. Technical SEO activities make it easier for visitors to navigate the website. For instance, you improve the site load time and mobile compatibility.
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working as an SEO specialist

An SEO specialist is an expert in improving rankings and website traffic. That is why they are an integral part of digital and content marketing. A successful SEO specialist improves sales and revenue by driving traffic to the website. Here are some of the duties and career prospects of SEO specialists:

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education and skills

To become an SEO specialist, you require the following educational skills:

  • education: most employers require SEO specialists to have an undergraduate degree in digital marketing or web development. The courses improve your search engine optimisation knowledge and equip you with the necessary skills for the role.
  • work experience: to become an SEO specialist, you need relevant work experience. You can gain experience through internships and graduate trainee programmes. An entry-level job in digital marketing also improves your skills.

SEO specialist skills and competencies

Some of the qualities of an SEO specialist include:

  • critical thinking skills: as an SEO specialist, you require critical thinking and analytical skills to review the website's performance. Your analytical skills help you identify problems in a website and find the best solutions.
  • writing and communication skills: as an SEO specialist, you require writing and editing skills. Writing skills help you write high-quality content. Communication skills also help you distil complex ideas into simple languages that customers can easily understand.
  • technical skills: as an SEO specialist, you require technical skills to handle complex optimisation tasks. For instance, knowledge of programming language helps you optimise HTML and improve the technical features of your website.
  • adaptability: as an SEO specialist, you should be adaptable to changes since search engine algorithms change constantly. It is important to enhance your SEO skills constantly.
  • inquisitive mind: search engine optimisation requires regular website review to identify problems that could slow down its performance. Having an inquisitive mind helps you discover the best solutions.
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FAQs

FAQs about working as an SEO specialist

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