We may receive compensation when you click on product links from our partners. For more information, please see our disclosure policy.
Last Updated on February 5, 2025
SEO, or search engine optimization, is likely something you’ve heard about, even if you don’t already know a lot about the technical side of the Internet and how businesses promote their product or service on the Internet. Most businesses use SEO – at least those savvy enough to know that promoting their service or product online can help boost their business quickly and for very little money.
While SEO is primarily for businesses, somebody has to do the work involved. For many people with a bit of marketing savvy and an interest in the Internet, a career in SEO may make sense. It can be very lucrative for some, but you’ll have to know how to do it right to maximize your profits.
Breaking into SEO? It’s more than just keywords—learn how to build skills, gain experience, and land your first job in this booming field. Ready to start your SEO journey? Take action today #SEO #DigitalMarketingClick To TweetWhat This Article Covers
- What Is SEO? – Understand the fundamentals of search engine optimization and how it impacts online visibility.
- How SEO Works – Learn how SEO helps businesses rank higher on Google and attract more visitors.
- SEO as a Career – Discover how SEO can be a lucrative career path and what skills are required.
- Building an SEO Business – Get insights into starting and growing your SEO consulting business.
- Guest Blogging for SEO – Learn how guest posting can establish credibility and drive website traffic.
- Creating an SEO Portfolio – Understand the importance of a strong portfolio and how to showcase your expertise.
- Developing an SEO Strategy – Explore methods for identifying niches and creating a solid marketing plan.
- Maximizing SEO Profits – Learn how to charge for SEO services and build long-term client relationships.
What is SEO?
If you’re like most people, you have a vague understanding of what SEO is but aren’t exactly sure how it works. SEO is quite simple – at least in theory. In the process of SEO, content is generated for a free website. This content is often placed on an SEO site or blogs they maintain.
Within the text, often educational and designed to answer questions about popular topics, links will be related to the business. Usually, these links are disguised to make the content feel like it isn’t promoting that business – only suggesting that they may be helpful to somebody interested in the contact. For example, a blog about foot pain may link to a local podiatrist. The same article could also be used as a link to a company that makes orthotic devices for tennis shoes.
How it Works
SEO works to obtain businesses with a higher traffic volume by helping them achieve a higher ranking in Google. That means their page comes closer to the top of Google Search so that more people see it. The idea is that if more people see a page when searching for a particular topic, that page will receive more viewers, which theoretically translates to more customers.
Go beyond managed WordPress hosting. Power your digital experience on the fastest, most reliable hosting platform for businesses of all sizes.
How Is That a Career?
If you’re wondering how doing something like that could possibly be a career, you’re not alone. Most people don’t truly understand how to monetize something like SEO. Basically, it works because companies will pay you to help them achieve a higher ranking on Google, which will get them more business. Every business wants to be near the top of the Google search results since it’s a cost-effective way to generate business.
Reaching a spot in the top ten takes a lot of work, research, and networking. The better you create viable links for customers, the more you can charge for your services – well into the thousands for various services.
Setting Up Your Business
Building a successful online presence starts with strategic guest blogging outreach. When establishing your business, identify and connect with quality websites and blogs that offer free content to their target audience. Reach out professionally to request guest posting opportunities that align with your expertise and their readership.
Create content that delivers value to the host blog and your target market. For instance, if specializing in podiatry solutions, you might write running blogs about how proper footwear impacts marathon performance. This content naturally incorporates relevant links to specialized services, such as custom orthotic solutions for runners experiencing foot issues.
Effective guest blogging requires building relationships with multiple quality platforms. Focus on developing strong connections with each blog or website you contribute to, ensuring consistent, high-quality submissions. This regular posting schedule across various platforms helps establish authority and improve search rankings effectively.
This invaluable guide teaches you the vital principles and skills of personal branding, including how to craft an emotionally resonant branding message, create top-quality branding tools, and attract a constant flow of business.
Building Your Portfolio
Building your portfolio is essential when you first start doing SEO work. You can focus on one type of subject or select multiple topics that are popular on search engines. The key is to create a body of work that is live on the Internet, which you can easily present to prospective clients.
Having your own webpage and/or blog that clients can access can help you get more work and showcase your portfolio. (See what I did there? A natural link within the body of the content is the best way to direct traffic to a client’s business.)
Come Up with a Strategy
Like any business, you need a marketing strategy to promote yourself and compete with others in the SEO field. Identifying a niche you enjoy, such as health writing, can help distinguish you from your competitors. Select one or more topics you are knowledgeable about, allowing you to complete your work quickly and efficiently.
This book is a must-read for entrepreneurs and business leaders looking to launch a successful startup.
Next Steps
- Enroll in an SEO certification program – Completing a recognized SEO course can provide foundational knowledge and enhance your credibility in the field.
- Develop your SEO skills – Focus on building a strong understanding of keyword research, on-page and off-page optimization, and technical SEO.
- Build your own website – Creating and optimizing your own site allows you to apply SEO principles in practice, demonstrating your abilities to potential employers. Platforms like WordPress are user-friendly and widely used in the industry.
- Gain practical experience through internships – Seek internships that offer hands-on SEO experience. Organizations such as SEO Career partner with companies to provide valuable opportunities.
- Stay updated with industry trends – The SEO landscape is constantly evolving. Regularly read reputable blogs and forums like Reddit’s SEO community to stay informed about the latest developments.
- Network with professionals in the field – Building relationships with other SEO professionals can lead to job opportunities and collaborations. Attend industry conferences and participate in online communities to expand
your network . - Prepare for SEO interviews – Familiarize yourself with common
interview questions and scenarios in the SEO field. Practice articulating your experience and knowledge to confidently present your qualifications to potential employers.
Michael D. Watkins offers proven strategies for conquering the challenges of transitionsno matter where you are in your career.
