The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects that demand for advertising and marketing managers will grow faster than average through 2028. Plus, experts suggest that the demand for SEO experts could be even higher.
A career switch as an SEO specialist could be a great choice now and for your future options.
If you’re wondering how to become a search engine optimization specialist, look no further! This guide will tell you all you need to know to make the career switch you’re dreaming of.
Learn about Search Engine Optimization
In order to become an SEO specialist, you need to thoroughly understand Google Analytics, crawl optimization budgets and more. So, what is search engine optimization and how do you do it? Luckily, you don’t need to sign up for college courses to do so.
There is a wide variety of free and paid online resources and courses that can teach you about SEO. There’s even a thorough search engine optimization guide that focuses on the fundamentals created by the University of California, Davis.
While the fundamentals of search engine optimization are explained to you, you also need to learn how to use the related tools. For example, SEO specialists commonly use Google Analytics, Google Keyword Planner, and WordPress. Being able to set up your own accounts with these and practice using them can be key to actually being able to use the skills you learn.
Prove Your Skills
Getting certified can help prove that you actually understand search engine optimization and how to do it. There is no certification that automatically qualifies you as an SEO specialist. Instead, there are a few respected options that you can choose from.
Common certifications to consider include:
- Hubspot Academy
- Moz SEO Essential Certificate
- Google Digital Garage
- SEMrush Academy
In addition to certification, you should make a portfolio to show off your skills. You can make mock-ups of content and web pages that showcase your skills. These can even be for businesses that don’t actually exist.
Land the Job
When you’re ready, you’ll actually need to land the job. Most people choose to work for a marketing agency, especially when they’re starting out. This can give you a support system and more opportunities to learn. Plus, you’ll get a stable paycheck.
Other times, people start out by freelancing. Just note that this is often more difficult when it comes to managing your own work.
Once you’re ready, find job openings and apply. It may take a while, but be confident about what you know, while also being willing to learn.
You may want to choose a specific niche to work in. For example, the specialists at https://www.designmemarketing.com/hvac-seo/ focus on optimization for HVAC companies. This allows them to have deep knowledge about the industry and what it takes to be successful.
Stay Up to Date with Industry Trends and Tactics
Search engines change their algorithms every couple of months, if not sooner. Once you have clients, you need to stay up to date with these changes in order to get results.
Follow social media accounts of people in the field. Doing so will allow you to learn search engine optimization tips that are up-to-date and actually work.
You can also attend conferences and online workshops, which serves the dual purpose of letting you meet people who work in the field.
Learn How to Become a Search Engine Optimization Specialist
Now that you know how to become a search engine optimization specialist, it’s time to get started. Learn as much as you can and get certified. From there, you can show off your skills to land the job you want.
Want to learn more about SEO? Check out our other business and ads articles!