SEO, or ''search engine optimization'' is not as complex a term as it may seem. All SEO really means is the process of ''optimizing'' a website so that search engines will find it. Consider what happens when you search for information on the Internet. You usually start with a keyword or keyword phrase. For example, you may have entered the search term ''SEO manager'' to find this article. SEO is the process of getting a web page to the top of the list that comes up in a web browser after a keyword search. To run effective SEO campaigns, most companies will utilize the services of SEO campaign managers. SEO campaign management is one of the various Internet marketing related jobs.
Why is SEO Important?
SEO and other Internet marketing related jobs are important for a variety of reasons. First, more and more businesses are being conducted on the Internet. In order to maximize profit potential, businesses increasingly work online to harness a portion of the ever-growing Internet market. Second, targeted traffic is important. Businesses don't want just any traffic to find their site — they want interested visitors who will buy the companies' products or services, or click on advertising and affiliate links. Third, because the Internet is home to billions of web pages, creating high quality targeted content is essential for drawing the right kind of traffic. Website will not automatically generate traffic, and it requires effort to generate just the right kind of traffic. This is where the help of an SEO manager comes into play.
What Does an SEO Manager Do?
If you have read a marketing manager job description, then you may have an idea of the types of things done by an SEO manager. An SEO manager is simply a specialized type of marketing manager. An SEO marketing manager job description includes technical website optimization, coordinating the creation and submission of website content, and building online community and back links. SEO marketing job openings often require strategic planning and campaign organization, and other project management duties. An SEO manager often monitors a project from inception to completion and must work cooperatively with team members to accomplish SEO goals. Some specific competencies required for SEO managers include keyword research, market analysis, and content optimization. SEO managers also use analytics to determine the effectiveness of Internet marketing campaigns, and maintain ongoing contact with clients on the progress of the projects.
What Kind of Education Does an SEO Manager Need?
SEO management combines two separate skill sets – knowledge of Internet marketing, and knowledge of search engine optimization. For SEO management and other marketing related jobs, training is required in areas like marketing, business, and computer science or related fields of study. Few, if any, programs of study offer SEO programs specifically. SEO is a subset of marketing related jobs that involves specialized knowledge in search engine techniques, consumer marketing, keyword research, and other facets of web marketing.
Where Can I Find Marketing Job Openings?
A good place to look for SEO campaign management and other types of marketing job openings is a college or university job posting board that may be available in the business, finance, computer science, or marketing departments of the university. In many cases, you do not have to be a student at the school to utilize these resources. There are many prominent online resources for finding marketing job openings — a simple Google search can yield a wealth of information. Online web portals can also provide you with excellent information by bringing you the best available compilation of marketing job openings all in one location.
What Do Employers Look for in an SEO Campaign Manager?
Employers look for a campaign manager who can take clients' search engine rankings to the top of the major search engines by planning savvy content creation using the right analytical tools. Companies look for experience and abilities in project management. You need to have the ability to keep many balls in the air while moving through the logistical steps involved in completing a successful SEO campaign. Many employers prefer a bachelor's degree in computer science, marketing, business, or finance, but if you have solid SEO experience, you may be able to circumvent this requirement. Knowledge of computer coding languages like HTML, JavaScript, and CSS is often required as well. You must be able to communicate well, both verbally and in writing, and be an organized multi-tasker.
How Do I Know if an SEO Campaign Manager Job Is Right For Me?
Take some time to review an SEO marketing manager job description, as well as postings for other kinds of marketing job openings. Compare your interests and abilities with the job descriptions and requirements from a variety of employers. If you find that your interests and skills are a good match, consider pursuing an education in marketing, or if you already have a marketing education, add some supplemental courses in computer science and Internet marketing. If you are computer savvy, knowledgeable about general marketing, communicate well in writing, and enjoy working in a creative team setting, you should consider exploring a career as an SEO campaign manager.
