The Best SEO Conferences For 2024-2025 (Virtual And In-Person) via @sejournal, @lorenbaker

The rapid advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning have dramatically reshaped the SEO and digital marketing landscape, and attending a conference is arguably one of the best ways to benefit from the latest industry insights while expanding your professional network.

Spending hours researching articles, forum discussions, and other online resources is always valuable, but attending conferences can significantly enhance your learning experience.

By directly interacting with industry professionals and experts, having the opportunity to ask them questions offers a depth of knowledge that complements and goes beyond what self-guided online research can provide.

In short, attending conferences, whether in-person or virtual, offers a wide range of benefits:

• Networking opportunities.
• Learning from experts.
• Interactive workshops.
• Staying updated with trends.
• Exposure to new tools and discovering the marketplace.
• Direct Q&A sessions.
• Receiving feedback from experts on your work.
• Building your company or personal brand.
• Competitive insights.
• Inspiration and creativity.
• Unique case studies available only to conference attendees.

To help you decide which ones you should attend, we’ve compiled a list of the best SEO conferences in 2024.

Whether you’re a road warrior who wants to attend as many events as possible or an introvert who only wants to attend digitally, there are sure to be several conferences that fit your needs.

So, without further ado, here is our list of the best online and in-person SEO conferences this year.

SEO & Digital Marketing Events For 2024

Here are some SEO and digital marketing conferences and events coming up this year. Mark your calendar now so you don’t miss them.

Friends Of Search Fest

• Website
• Date: March 21, 2024.
• Format: In-person.
• Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands.
• Speakers: Kevin Indig, Aleyda Solís, Purna Virji, and Barry Adams, among others.
• Cost: Starting from €477,95-€568,95.
• About: One of Europe’s largest search conferences. The event brings together consultants, marketers, and business owners to share their insights on SEO, PPC, and digital marketing. This three-day event will feature sessions designed to provide attendees with actionable insights and the latest information from industry experts.

In the video below, you can see what a real-life conference looks and feels like.

Adobe Summit

• Website
• Date: March 26-28, 2024.
• Format: In-person, on-demand sessions available.
• Location: Las Vegas, NV.
• Speakers: Shantanu Narayen, Karen Hopkins, Greg Cobb, Trevor Paulsen, Bob Conklin, Badsah Mukherji, and many others.
• Cost: $1895-$2095 with various discounts available; on-demand sessions after the event are free.
• About: The Adobe Summit features a massive variety of guests and keynotes, including actors, producers, CEOs, and Olympians. The in-person conference includes sessions, hands-on labs, meals, and evening events. You can register for the virtual summit for free to access keynotes and speaking sessions after the event.

Preview of the conference from Adobe.

Brighton SEO

• Website
• Date: April 25-26 and October 3-4, 2024 (UK) and November 19-20, 2024 (US).
• Format: In-person and online.
• Location: Brighton, U.K. and San Diego, US.
• Speakers: Adriana Stein, Dan Taylor, and Amanda Walls, among others.
• Cost: In-person starts at £350; virtual video bundle at £110. You can also join a waitlist for free tickets.
• About: This twice-yearly conference is attended by thousands of digital marketers worldwide. It features training workshops, sessions on niche topics, social networking events, and talks from experts. There is also a US-based version of the conference; brightonSEO San Diego takes place in November 2024.

Below is video feedback from attendees.

MnSearch Summit

• Website
• Date: June 14, 2024
• Format: In-person.
• Location: Saint Paul RiverCentre in St. Paul, Minnesota.
• Speakers: Mike King, Greg Gifford, Susan Wenogra, Ian Lurie, and many others.
• Cost: $347-547.
• About: MnSearch Summit is two days of learning and networking with thought leaders from the digital marketing industry. It includes workshops, sessions, and events focused on SEO, PPC, social media, and analytics, among other topics.

MozCon 2024

• Website
• Date: June 3-4, 2024.
• Format: In-person or live streaming.
• Location: Seattle, WA.
• Speakers: Amanda Jordan, Andy Crestodina, and Azeem Ahmad, among others.
• Cost: Early bird in-person tickets start at $899; livestream only for $299-$499.
• About: The annual digital marketing conference hosted by Moz, this conference features networking and expert sessions from SEO industry leaders, as well as experts in mobile search, conversion optimization, and search marketing.

Below is a sample talk from past MozCon.

WTSFest

• Website
• Dates: June 7, 2024, September, 19 2024.
• Format: In-person & Recording tickets available.
• Locations: London, Berlin, Philadelphia, PA.
• Speakers: Grace Frohlich, Joyann Boyce, Lily Ray, Navah Hopkins, Purna Virji, Chima Mmeje and more.
• Cost: From $199 to $399 in Philadelphia, £99 or £299 in London, sold out in Berlin (waiting list available).
• About: The Women in Tech SEO Festival is a full-day conference coming back to London for the fifth time on International Women’s Day, expanding this year to 2 more locations in Germany and the USA. A community-led one-track conference featuring a line of 10 brilliant speakers on analytics, search, technical SEO and empowerment talks.

Below is a snapshot from the conference venue sidelines, where you can get a real-life overview of the conference.

Growth Marketing Summit 2024

• Website
• Date: June 19, 2024.
• Format: In-person.
• Location: Frankfurt am Main, Germany
• Speakers: Michael Aagaard, Lukas Vermeer, and Erin Weigel, among others.
• Cost: Early bird rate from €699.
• About: Assembling growth marketers and digital professionals worldwide, this single-day event features world-class speakers sharing their expertise on flexible and data-driven marketing solutions.

Here is what the venue looks like and some video feedback from attendees.

INBOUND 2024

• Website
• Date: September 18-20, 2024.
• Format: In-person or online.
• Location: Boston, MA.
• Speakers: TBA.
• Cost: In-person from $899 for September 18-20; from $1,699 for the September 17-20 VIP pass.
• About: This annual event is powered by HubSpot, bringing together global thought leaders for a hybrid conference discussing marketing, sales, and customer success operations. It covers a wide range of topics and gives attendees the opportunity to network and learn from some of the best in the business.

Below is a comprehensive review from attendees.

B2B Marketing Expo 2024

• Website
• Date: October 9-10, 2024.
• Format: In-person.
• Locations: Miami, FL, and Los Angeles, CA.
• Speakers: Ryan Ross, Winston T Marshall, David Jarvis, and many others.
• Cost: Free.
• About: Featuring education masterclasses for marketing professionals, this annual conference covers a variety of tracks, including advertising and promotion, content and experience, and commerce and sales. Hundreds of suppliers and speakers will be on hand to discuss the state of the industry and recent happenings.

Below is the video from the real-life experiences of attendees.

Engage (Formerly SearchFest)

• Website
• Date: October 17-18, 2024.
• Format: In-person.
• Location: Portland, OR.
• Speakers: Ryan Jones, Martha van Berkel, Jesse McDonald, and many others.
• Cost: $299-$900.
• About: Engage Marketing Conference is a one-day digital marketing conference featuring informative learning tracks and panel sessions designed to provide expert insight into the latest strategies and technological advancements in digital marketing, social media, content, UX/design, creative, advertising, SEO, paid media, and more!

Below is a picture from the conference venue by one of the attendees.

The amazing @purnavirji rocking here @sempdx Engage keynote. On #InternationalWomansDay no less. Great info here#EngagePDX pic.twitter.com/4f2IiyOMT0

— James Svoboda 🕊🐢|👥👊|💀🗡 (@Realicity) March 8, 2018

Content Marketing World

• Website
• Date: October 21-23, 2024.
• Format: In-person or online.
• Location: San Diego, CA.
• Speakers: Ann Handley, Robert Rose, Cassie Kozyrkov, and many others.
• Cost: Super Early bird in-person tickets start at $1199; livestream only for $899.
• About: Over four days, attendees will learn strategies for building winning SEO teams, systems, and processes. With more than 100 sessions, workshops, and industry forums, you can choose the topics and sessions that are relevant to you. Thousands of marketers and representatives from numerous global brands will be in attendance.

Here is an example video from last year’s conference.

ADworld Experience

• Website
• Date: October 17-18, 2024.
• Format: In-person and online.
• Location: Bologna, Italy.
• Speakers: Fiona Bradley, Tom Breeze, Valerio Celetti, and many others.
• Cost: Early bird in-person tickets start at €529; livestream only for €199.
• About: Bringing together PPC experts from across the globe for the largest paid ad and conversion rate optimization event in Europe – and the largest real PPC-based conference in the world.

State Of Search 2024

• Website 
• Date: October 28-29, 2024.
• Format: In-person and online.
• Location: Grapevine, TX.
• Speakers: TBD.
• Cost: TBA.
• About: The State of Search brings together top speakers from the digital marketing field to cover various topics, from search engine optimization to emerging technology, lead generation, and display advertising.

Below is one of the talks from past conferences by Eric Enge.

DMO Advanced 2024

• Website 
• Date: TBA.
• Format: In-person.
• Location: Napa Valley, CA.
• Speakers: TBA.
• Cost: TBA.
• About: Digital Marketers Organization will again host their advanced digital marketing event, blending interactive and educational sessions with networking opportunities. There will be numerous sessions specifically designed for SEO, including information on technical debt, localization, and internationalization.

DigiMarCon

• Website
• Date: On-going throughout 2024.
• Format: In-person and online.
• Location: Various global locations.
• About: DigiMarCon offers a range of events throughout the year, both virtual and in-person conferences in various global locations. Digital Marketing Conferences is a global series of events bringing together thought leaders from the digital marketing, media, and advertising industries. These conferences focus on emerging strategies, the latest technology, recent best practices, networking, and collaboration.

International Search Summit (IIS) Barcelona

• Website 
• Date: November 14, 2024.
• Format: In-person.
• Location: World Trade Center, Barcelona, Spain.
• Speakers: TBA. Past speakers include Gary Illyes, Mordy Oberstein, Olga Andrienko, Navah Hopkins, among others.
• Cost: Tickets from €750, including access to ISS and International SEO Workshop.
• About: The International Search Summit is dedicated entirely to global digital marketing and learning the strategies to drive sales and growth around the world. With a focus on people, as well as learning, networking sessions are integrated into the whole event to ensure attendees leave with new knowledge and new connections. In the past, there have been 3 tracks with 30 sessions, all focused on international SEO and PPC. There will also be a deep dive International SEO Workshop running on November 14.

Below is a review from attendees.

The eCommerce & Omnichannel Retail Conference (eTail)

• Website
• Date: February 24 -February 27, 2025.
• Format: In-person with on-demand available for a limited time following events.
• Location: Palm Springs, CA.
• Speakers: Kristin Shane, Drew Green, Dave Spector, and Anngelica Newland, among many others.
• Cost: In-person starting at $2,099.
• About: With a focus on digital commerce, this event is a four-day retreat designed to help ecommerce and omnichannel stores uncover new ways to maximize profits from some of America’s most successful retailers. Check out the full series of conferences throughout the year in Boston, Toronto, Canada, and London, England.

Preview of the conference from past attendees.

Pubcon 2025

• Website
• Date: TBA.
• Format: In-person.
• Location: Las Vegas, NV.
• Speakers: Gary Illyes, Brett Tabke, Fabrice Canel, and many others.
• Cost: $599-$1699.
• About: Pubcon, a “fullstack marketing conference,” is in its 21st year. This two-day, in-person event features keynotes from Google and Bing and a packed schedule of conference sessions. Based on your interest, choose between different topic tracks such as organic SEO, marketing potpourri, site reviews, and ChatGPT and AI content.

Here is a snapshot of what it looked like during past conferences.

Search Marketing Expo (SMX Munich)

• Website
• Date: March 18-19, 2025.
• Format: In-person.
• Location: Munich.
• Speakers: Bastian Grimm, Andrey Lipattsev and Jes Scholz, among others.
• Cost: Starting from €550-€2,295.
• About: SMX Munich is large event with +1000 attendees focused on search marketing, attracting a diverse range of industry professionals. It offers a valuable opportunity for networking, learning, and discovering new tools and practices in the field of SEO, Social Media and PPC.

Below is a presentation from the past that can help you grasp what the event’s content looks like.

Social Media Marketing World

• Website
• Date: March 30- April 1, 2025.
• Format: In-person and on-demand.
• Location: San Diego, CA.
• Speakers: Michael Stelzner, Ann Handley, Dr. Mindy Weinstein, Joe Pulizzi, and many others.
• Cost: In-person starting at $1497-$1997; streaming for $697; on-demand for $997.
• About: Bringing together top social media marketing pros, this conference is not directly focused on SEO but features sessions on organic social marketing, paid social marketing, social strategy, content marketing, and several workshops.

It strives to immediately provide attendees with ideas they can implement for their clients or businesses.

Below is a real-life experience of what it looks like by Latasha James.

Great SEO Pros Never Stop Learning

For an SEO professional, experience is important – but not nearly as vital as staying up to date.

While you can keep an eye on what’s going on in the world of search engines, paid advertising, and digital marketing by reading expert publications (like this one, for example), it’s also great to meet with other people who are performing the same job.

This gives you a chance not just to interact with them but to ask questions and develop relationships that could reap rewards far down the line. And SEO conferences are a great place to do this.

So, whether you’re trying to brush up on the basics, identify the latest techniques, or just take a trip on the company dime, the above events are a great place to start.

Include Your SEO Conference

This article is updated whenever possible to reflect frequent changes to event schedules and details.

If you’re hosting an upcoming SEO event and want it listed, please submit it via the form below:

More resources: 

Featured Image: l i g h t p o e t/Shutterstock

Female Founder Of A Billion-Dollar Company: 10 Signs You’re An Entrepreneur

I know what it is like to be a reluctant entrepreneur.

Back in 2014, when I first started thinking about Starling Bank, if anyone had told me, “Ah, so you are going to be an entrepreneur,” I’d have said, “Absolutely not.” I was similarly reluctant to use the word “founder.”

Growing up, I always believed entrepreneurs were inventors. They made something. Today’s example might be James Dyson, because he invented the first bagless vacuum cleaner.

Elon Musk invented a rocket that went into space. I didn’t believe I was like this. I had gone to university, joined Lloyd’s Bank as a graduate trainee, and then worked my way up the corporate ladder.

It wasn’t until Starling Bank became a unicorn, reaching a valuation of over £1 billion, that I finally relented on the word “entrepreneur.”

Since then, I have reflected on why I never saw myself as a bona fide entrepreneur.

My conclusion is that, when I started my business, I didn’t do it because I wanted to be an entrepreneur. I did it because I had long since grown disillusioned with the world of banking and was convinced that I knew what needed to be done to put things right.

I had zero doubt about my idea for a new type of bank. That, in itself, is the basis for entrepreneurship. What I called myself really didn’t matter.

If you, too, are a reluctant entrepreneur, it might be helpful if I began by sharing what I, and other female entrepreneurs, think about how to identify whether there is an entrepreneur lurking beneath the surface (whether or not you would like to admit it to yourself).

Here are 10 signs you are an entrepreneur:

1. You Don’t Accept “No” As An Answer

Anyone who gets discouraged by a “no” is never going to make it as an entrepreneur. I held meetings with more than 300 investors before I found someone interested in putting money into Starling Bank.

If I had given up at 10 meetings, or a hundred meetings, the business would never have gotten off the ground. Similarly, plenty of customers, regulators, potential hires, and seemingly everyone said no.

Hearing “no” time after time is part and parcel of being an entrepreneur. If you are the type to welcome this two-letter word as a challenge that allows you to show what you can do, then you’ve got the entrepreneur mindset.

2. Your Achievements Have Not Been Recognized (So Far)

Women, in particular, often get frustrated with corporate life because they feel underestimated or unrecognized.

Their input is ignored or played down. They report speaking up in meetings to put forward an idea, and it is met with silence, only for a male colleague to be praised when he repeats a virtually identical point later on.

I spent most of my career complaining about not getting the plum projects or not being paid enough, and very often was only able to make any progress by quitting one job to take another. In the end, I had to start my own business to achieve what I always believed to be my full potential.

It is quite possible that this is the reason why so many women become entrepreneurs following maternity leave.

After a break from the corporate world, they can’t face re-entering the fray where their achievements go unnoticed month after month. The idea of setting out alone and being judged on their own merits is more alluring.

3. You Don’t Care About Fitting In

Closely related to the above, many entrepreneurs have long since decided they don’t fit in, so don’t waste any time on it. When I started speaking with other female entrepreneurs, I was struck by just how different they were from the people I knew from corporate life.

In my previous career, I was surrounded by people who spent their entire careers trying to fit in. Entrepreneurs didn’t seem interested in all of that. They seemed more grounded and focused on the task at hand, rather than carefully weighing each word to see how they came across.

There’s an element of mischievousness here, too. It’s not enough to feel disgruntled about being passed over; you need to feel determined to do something to strike a blow at the establishment. Any entrepreneur who feels this way would be in fine company.

This is the motivation that spurred on Dame Stephanie Shirley, also known as Steve, who started a software house back in 1962 that introduced radical new flexible work practices for women in technology.

4. You’re A Dreamer (And A Little Naive)

Entrepreneurs who have previously had “proper jobs” often report spending a lot of time looking at their firms or bosses and imagining how they would do it better. Their imagination is filled with dreams and ideas.

Mixed in with this is a certain amount of naivety. During my own entrepreneurial journey, it really helped that I dreamed big, but also that I was a little naive about the scale of what I dreamed about.

When things were difficult, it helped me imagine the next bit had to be easier. I’d tell myself we only need to get this one thing done, and it’ll be plain sailing.

This was even though every single day as an entrepreneur is about solving a new problem.

5. You’re Competitive

For some reason, a desire to win is often viewed negatively, but it is a quality all entrepreneurs need. In fact, I have not met an entrepreneur who isn’t super-competitive.

During the toughest times, an arch-rival is what you need to keep going, even if that rival doesn’t really see your business as a competitor.

They are the mark. You need to get ahead of them to get closer to your goal. True entrepreneurs turn this rivalry into pure energy.

It should be said, this rivalry should be healthy. Going head-to-head with daggers drawn causes unnecessary tension and doesn’t help anyone.

New entrepreneurs are often quite surprised to hear that most founders often speak with other businesses in their sector. It’s a great way to swap ideas and can help everyone.

6. You’re Goal-Driven

Entrepreneurs are goal-driven. We like to take the initiative and solve problems, even if it means working on them for long periods to remove all obstacles that get in the way. This also means they are strategic in their game plans.

Right from the beginning at Starling, I had a plan in mind – and it was a grand plan.

Whenever I talked to anyone about anything to do with the business, I was thinking ahead about how what we were discussing would impact my end goal.

7. You’re Constantly Looking To Learn Something And Improve

Whenever I approach something new, my first instinct is to head to a bookshop. I’ve been the same since I was a young child when my parents gave me an unlimited budget to spend at our local one. I always bought non-fiction and academic books and would pore over them to find out how to do things.

One year, my parents bought me a second-hand, 1956 copy of the Encyclopaedia Britannica – all 24 volumes. I devoured every page and, perhaps oddly, still have an incredible knowledge of life in the 1950s.

I’ve never lost the idea that books are there to advise and inform. Whenever I try anything new, I download dozens of books on the subject.

If I start something in the house, my Kindle is full of books on interior design. My shelves feature a lot of books about living and working in America/Ireland/Switzerland, basically tracking my career progression.

Beside them are endless books on starting a business, managing the transition from start-up to high-growth business, or engaging teams.

Not everyone is such a bookworm; I understand that. Some gather their intel by meeting as many experts as they can and listening carefully to every word. They learn something from every interaction.

Yet, however they absorb it, entrepreneurs are always looking to improve their outlook. If there is a better way to do something, they need to know it.

8. You’re Good With People

Your employees are people. Your customers are people. Your regulators are people. Your investors are people. All of your stakeholders are people.

Each one plays a role in making a high-growth business a success.

If just one stakeholder doesn’t engage, the business won’t succeed. Thus, being good with people is key.

9. You’re Persuasive

To be successful, an entrepreneur needs people to listen to them and be inspired, whether they are investors, customers, or colleagues.

This talent is essential right from the beginning of an entrepreneurial venture when early team members need to be persuaded to give up the security of their existing jobs to join you on this (potentially crazy) endeavor.

When things don’t go according to plan, you’ll have to persuade them to keep the faith and stick with it.

Every single difficult conversation has to be sprinkled with just enough magic optimism dust. This is even more so when people are working for next to nothing – or even nothing at all.

You need them to come back the next day. Sometimes, that takes some next-level charm skills. Remaining upbeat and persuasive can be particularly challenging during funding rounds when so much is riding on the outcome.

I have many vivid memories of returning to the office empty-handed and, yet, telling everyone I had a great lead.

10. You’re Fully Committed

Entrepreneurialism is not like an uplifting movie, where the main character has an idea and then a sped-up reel shows them hurtling towards success. There will be multiple high points and low points along the way.

Almost every entrepreneur will face a time when they are hours away from losing everything they worked for. Before Starling received its banking license and began opening accounts, the business came close to collapse three times.

It has been well documented that we lost a crucial potential investor at the eleventh hour, and the entire team walked out to start a competitive product (great news, a rival – see point five above!).

It takes 100% commitment to the vision to keep going at these low points. If you have that, you’re an entrepreneur.

This chapter is an extract from Female Founders’ Playbook by Anne Boden ©2024 and is reproduced with permission from Kogan Page Ltd.

To read the full book, SEJ readers have an exclusive 25% discount code and free shipping to the US or UK. Use promo code SEJ25 at koganpage.com here.

More resources: 

Featured Image: Rido/Shutterstock

SEO Work & Life Balance: Advice And Inspiring Resources You Should Follow

I have been in the SEO industry for over seven years, and I have been leading the SEO team for the last year and a half.

One thing that keeps the job exciting is how dynamic the industry can be. But this can also be a challenge for some.

Like any average person, especially those in marketing and SEO, I’ve had my fair share of ups and downs – and a lot of life lessons. Some of them might prove useful for you.

I’ve also reached out to some influential colleagues in the SEO industry to share their experiences.

I wanted to compare their stories to mine or show a broader perspective on this career path, and how to make your life easier in such a high-demand market.

In this post, I’ll share my own experience as a woman and insights from remarkable women and non-binary colleagues in the SEO industry, as well as highlight some useful resources.

With this article, I want to celebrate female and non-binary SEO pros because of their personas and accomplishments (not just because of their gender or identification).

My goal is to inspire you to explore the content crafted by these experts who shape the SEO industry and share knowledge that we all – regardless of gender – can benefit from.

Now, I’m ready to share my personal experience.

Some Of My Personal Wins

For some SEO professionals, their biggest wins are growing their projects and their company’s or client’s website.

Others see success in leading a company or a team. And there are also those for whom it’s all about overcoming personal limits or fears. I have a bit of everything.

First, managing the brand’s website, especially when it’s an SEO platform, is quite a responsibility. This website is feeding a huge team, and it can’t go wrong any time – you can’t let things go wrong.

I’ve experienced a traffic drop after the December 2022 update. And it was the first drop in my career that I was fully responsible for.

Our team recovered after that update and has significantly grown our organic traffic since then.

It was a stressful experience, but going through it makes you less afraid of failures or such unpredictable turns – you’ve already experienced one of your deepest fears as an SEO of a brand website.

Becoming the head of SEO and a team manager was one of my biggest professional challenges that became one of my biggest personal wins.

Before I got into this position, I thought it involved too much responsibility that I might not be able to handle. Leading, indeed, means taking complete responsibility for people, processes, and results.

But this position is also empowering, and it opened up new opportunities for my growth.

Some Of My Personal Struggles

I can highlight two struggles many people in SEO or other demanding and dynamic jobs can relate to.

Burnout

As a perfectionist, I tend to raise the bar high for myself and my performance. And I also love my job so I put a lot of effort into it.

But as a manager, I usually have to juggle tasks, meetings, requests, and deadlines. I believe the combination of these factors has led me to burnout a couple of times. Recovery is a long process, but I’ve overcome it.

Some of my tips here are to multitask, switch tasks less during the day/week, and focus more on important ones while delegating.

Otherwise, you’ll just get more tired and won’t be able to accomplish much. Also, limit your work hours, which might be harder when you work remotely.

Spend more time being outside your working space (a.k.a. on your laptop).

For instance, I try to have long walks every day, do workouts or yoga regularly during the work week, and try to spend my weekends outside my apartment.

Imposter Syndrome Or Feeling Not Good Enough

Before becoming a manager, I thought a good manager had to be the smartest and the most stress-resistant person in the room, which didn’t align with my perception of myself.

But after taking this role, I’ve built a more mature vision of what it means to be a team leader. This helped me overcome my imposter syndrome.

Now, being a good manager for me means delivering results while keeping my team happy.

And this doesn’t mean you should do everything yourself and be the best at everything – but you surely need to be a problem-solver and a good communicator.

Some Advice That Might Make Your Life As An SEO Pro Easier

Do Less To Get More

Since my student years, I’ve pushed myself into the hustle culture. I combined my studies with a part-time job (or even full-time) and some side projects.

After graduating and starting a full-time job, I often took some online courses and freelance projects after work or on the weekends. I felt guilty when I wasn’t doing something useful or wasn’t productive all the time.

Now, I realize this means doing a lot and not reaching the best results.

Last year, I shifted to a more focused and quality-based mode, which helped me achieve more while being in a better mental state.

But be ready that, in choosing this path, you’ll need to say “No” to some opportunities or people more often. This is something I’m also still learning.

Those were some of my experiences that I believe could be useful to my SEO colleagues.

As you read this, I hope you feel that you’re not alone, even if you’re working remotely as a one-person-team in-house SEO professional.

To show you that we’re not alone in the challenges we face, I’m excited to share personal stories and lessons from some amazing people from the industry.

Insights From My Female And Non-Binary Colleagues

“Get Comfortable With Being Uncomfortable” – Shelley Walsh, SEO Content Strategist, Search Engine Journal

The first to share is Shelley Walsh, SEJ SEO content strategist, founder of ShellShock SEO content services, and SEO Pioneers content producer. She came to SEO after taking on many different creative roles.

After years of offline marketing, creative and business experience, she started in SEO at the bottom again in her late 30s, which was quite a challenge. Walsh recalls:

“I remember attending my first conference at Brighton and not knowing anyone, feeling intimidated and overwhelmed.

I had to push myself hard to introduce myself and talk to people. A few years later, I was speaking at the conference, and most of the people I admired were friends.”

Shelley confesses that she suffers from imposter syndrome. One of the reasons is that the SEO industry constantly evolves at light speed, and you can’t learn at the same light speed. And the more you know, the more you realize you don’t know.

“From speaking to many successful people, I don’t think that fear of not being good enough ever goes away – but it can be a positive to drive you to be good at what you do.

The payback is that I hover on the edge of burnout constantly. However, I feel driven to keep learning and be the best version of myself.”

For women in SEO, although I think this tip is useful for everyone, Shelley advises networking and stepping out of your comfort zone.

“Invest in your network. I invest a lot of time to connect and keep in touch, and I have a fantastic worldwide network of contacts who are also friends.

And get comfortable with being uncomfortable. To achieve anything, you have to step out of your comfort zone and be able to deliver even under less-than-ideal circumstances.”

“Take The Time To Find Out What Works For You” – Tory Gray, CEO & Founder, Gray Dot Company

Tory Gray, CEO and Founder of Gray Dot Company, also suffered burnout. But in her case, it was the first step towards the creation of her company.

“Burnout was certainly a challenge, but it – very fortunately – led me to freelancing. Freelancing turned into building my company, so taken altogether, I’m very grateful. The biggest way I recovered was taking the time to calmly explore my interests and options.”

She applied the same approach to finding the best tactics for dealing with stress: Take the time to find out what works for you.

“What works for me, personally, is sleep; ideally, 9+ hours of it per night. I very much don’t subscribe to the ‘wake up at 5 a.m. to answer emails and workout’ philosophy.

Learn about what works: dancing, rest, exercise, meditation, etc. But how much and when and which of those options to explore is a very personal decision. Don’t get hung up on the rules others place on you – take the time to find your own right fit.”

“Find Things That Bring You Joy” – Lazarina Stoy, SEO & Data Science Consultant

For Lazarina Stoy, an SEO & Data Science Consultant who grew her personal brand and became a manager and a professional mentor, burnout has been the most challenging thing to overcome so far.

“I had to take a hard break and reframe how to prioritize wellbeing and life over work. This has helped me become more in-tune with the aspects of work that I enjoy and how to pursue them more actively, set healthy boundaries, and champion myself a bit better.”

Lazarina has also found a way to balance work and life and deal with stress. Her advice to those struggling with it now is to find things that bring you joy outside of work.

“Prioritize rest and deep relaxation, including digital detox. Limit the information intake for work-related things to working hours.

Always try reframing news and industry events as a passing occurrence – part of the job – not as something that defines you as a person or threatens your role or existence.”

“Prioritize What Truly Matters To You” – Myriam Jessier, SEO Executive, PRAGM

Myriam Jessier, SEO Executive at PRAGM, says that imposter syndrome has been a persistent challenge throughout their career.

“I could tell you that I overcame it by surrounding myself with supportive peers, but that’s not the truth.

I learned to embrace uncertainty and be comfortable with being uncomfortable. I see new challenges as opportunities to keep learning and to improve my skill set.”

They also had to deal with a toxic manager, which was the reason why they decided to open their own agency. Ultimately, it turned out to be one of Myriam’s biggest wins.

“It pushed me to confront personal fears and embrace my entrepreneurial spirit. I had been told for years I should have my own agency, but I never dared.

This journey has been incredibly rewarding, allowing me to build a company that reflects my values and work with clients I’m passionate about.”

As an agency owner, Myriam sees the biggest challenges in burnout and productivity dysphoria.

“You should not let it eat you alive. If you do, you may lose your love of SEO and that would be a disaster if you make a living with those skills.”

Their tips for better work-life balance don’t require a lot of effort to put them into practice. Still, they can make a difference.

This end-of-working-day routine is something I should try.

“The one tip I have for those of you who are sedentary is to have a closing ritual for the day. Light a special candle or play a song that signals your work day has ended.

I used to meditate a bit, and it helps, but I absolutely dislike doing it since my dog will always find a way to climb on top of me and try to lick my nostrils.”

Here’s one more piece of advice that will come in handy when planning a vacation. We all have been there: You come back from vacation and start raking up your backlog, but your colleagues are there with tons of new requests.

“My last tip is: Tell people you are going on vacation a week earlier than you truly are and return maybe a week later than you truly are.

Let me explain. You don’t have to lie; just say that you are unavailable from that date to that date. It will give you time to ease back into work and handle a few things that accumulated during your break … before the horde attacks you with a bunch of new requests.”

Myriam’s advice to colleagues in SEO is to prioritize what truly matters to you so that you don’t waste your energy on things that don’t align with your values or vision.

“This sometimes means being comfortable being disliked by the person in front of you because it will lead to you getting more out of the deal than if you were bending over backward to please them.

But you have to be in a position where you can afford to do that. This means that you have to invest in yourself, in your skills, and in your reputation.”

Valuable Resources From Influential Women In SEO

The powerful voices of numerous influential women make the SEO industry thrive. They are educators, innovators, and community builders who share their knowledge and experience and drive changes.

In this section, I’ll share valuable podcasts, trusted communities, illuminating newsletters, and insightful YouTube channels created and ranked by female SEO leaders. These are sources of SEO wisdom and inspiration.

• Marie Haynes’ community platform is a place where SEO professionals can find a wealth of useful information and stay connected. Marie runs the “Search News You Can Use” newsletter and podcast that covers the latest industry trends and updates.
• Aleyda Solis, an internationally praised SEO consultant, shares her expertise through various channels, including podcasts, newsletters, educational YouTube videos, and an SEO community. Aleyda does whatever she can and more to foster a supportive network for SEO enthusiasts.
• SEOSLY by Olga Zarr demystifies complex SEO concepts and strategies. In her podcasts, newsletters, and YouTube channel, Olga covers complex SEO topics and explains how to stay ahead of industry shifts.
• MarketingSyrup SEO Academy and Smart SEO newsletter by Kristina Azarenko help professionals navigate the dynamic SEO landscape with confidence and expertise.
• Kate Toon is a business mentor, writer, speaker, and award-winning digital marketing coach who equips her audience with the skills and knowledge to excel in SEO, copywriting, and digital marketing.
• Tech SEO Tips by Nikki Halliwell provides targeted advice and updates, enabling SEO professionals to stay at the forefront of technical SEO developments.
• Women in Tech SEO community is a go-to resource for women in the SEO and tech industries, offering a supportive space for sharing knowledge, networking, and professional growth.
• Sisters in SEO is another vibrant community that fosters collaboration and empowerment among women in the SEO field, encouraging members to share insights and experiences.
• The SEO Mindset Podcast is hosted by self-confessed SEO nerd Sarah McDowell and Tazmin Suleman, a life coach with an SEO background. It gives SEO professionals actionable personal growth and career development tips and offers deep insights into SEO strategies, mindset shifts, and industry trends.
• Confessions of an SEO podcast by Carolyn Holzman offers an intimate look at the SEO industry, blending professional insights with personal stories. Carolyn’s podcast feels like a heart-to-heart with a seasoned expert, providing practical tips and real-world experiences that resonate.
• SEO Pioneers YouTube channel by Shelley Walsh is a series of interviews with industry pioneers and influencers that share their personal stories about how they helped to shape the industry and their advice and tips about SEO. Lots of valuable insights from some of the best SEO professionals.
• Search Engine Journal contributors like me, Martha van Berkel, Motoko Hunt and Sherry Bonelli share high-value advice on SEO and building business in the digital space.

Wrapping Up

Building your career in the SEO industry isn’t an easy road to take. It’s filled with ups and downs, challenges and victories.

As my own story and the stories of my incredible colleagues show, it’s all about our resilience and creativity in finding solutions to problems.

At the end of the day, working in SEO isn’t just about website optimization, rankings, and algorithms.

It’s also about the connections we build, the support we offer, the knowledge we share, and the issues we overcome.

More resources: 

Featured Image: PeopleImages.com – Yuri A/Shutterstock

Navigating The SEO Career Landscape: Degrees, Myths, And Realities via @sejournal, @SEOGoddess

In the dynamic realm of search engine optimization (SEO), my career spans nearly two decades, starting in 2004 when I started working for an agency and just two years later moved to in-house SEO for a large company.

Since then, I’ve held various in-house SEO roles at esteemed organizations, including Classmates.com, Concur, Smartsheet, ADP (usedcars.com), Nordstrom, Groupon, GitHub, and my most recent role at RingCentral – experiences which have deepened my understanding of the field and allowed me to shape SEO within different business contexts.

I began my career as an SEO specialist at the agency; my role involved understanding website optimization, keyword research, and refining on-page and off-page strategies.

When I moved to management, I had to understand how to lead a team properly.

As my journey progressed, transitioning to roles like SEO manager involved overseeing SEO strategies, developing comprehensive plans, educating and leading teams, and ensuring alignment with overarching business goals.

These roles collectively form the backbone of SEO, showcasing its dynamism and emphasizing each position’s indispensable role in driving effective digital marketing strategies.

My journey isn’t that much different from that of many SEO professionals, aside from the fact that some SEO pros may decide to stay with an agency or focus on consulting rather than working for another company.

There are so many avenues one could go down when choosing their career path for SEO, so let me help break it down.

SEO Roles

As someone immersed in the SEO field for many years, I fully understand today’s many diverse SEO roles.

Let’s explore these roles, the average salaries in the US, and advice I have for anyone looking to move into these roles, considering both their nuances and the path ahead for aspiring SEO professionals:

SEO Specialist

Embarking on the SEO journey often starts as a specialist. In this entry-level role, one will dig into the complexities of optimizing websites to boost rankings.

As a specialist, my early days involved conducting keyword research, analyzing website performance, and implementing strategies that enhanced organic visibility for clients.

This foundational role serves as a stepping stone to grasp the fundamentals of digital marketing in both the agency and in-house environments.

• Salary*: $63,699 per year (Indeed).
• Duties: Focus on entry-level content optimization, conducting keyword research, and honing on-page and off-page strategies.
• Advice: This is a great role to grasp the fundamentals, immerse yourself in various facets of digital marketing, and adapt to evolving trends.

SEO Content Strategist

Transitioning to a content strategist role within SEO reveals the creative side of drafting engaging, search-engine-friendly content.

Most SEO pros in this position are expected to sharpen their writing skills and plan and optimize content calendars based on comprehensive keyword research.

As an SEO content strategist, creating informative and captivating content is paramount to retaining readers and adhering to evolving SEO best practices.

Technical SEO Manager

My background in engineering has allowed me to focus heavily on the technical aspects of SEO. The position as a technical SEO manager requires a solid knowledge of coding, engineering processes, and database management.

The role of a technical SEO professional involves handling site structure, indexing, and resolving intricate technical issues that impact search performance.

Responsibilities extend to collaborating with engineering teams, ensuring effective communication, and mitigating risks associated with technical SEO.

This role requires a unique blend of technical acumen and collaborative skills.

• Salary*: $99,548 per year (Indeed).
• Duties: Tackle technical aspects impacting search performance, focusing on site structure, indexing, and technical troubleshooting.
• Advice: Understand what goes into the development of a website, including the various coding languages (HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Java, Python, React, Angular, etc.), database connectivity, and server administration, followed by the specifics of what Google expects and recommends for the benefits of SEO. In addition, SEO pros are expected to cultivate collaboration skills and have a solid understanding of using tools like Botify to aid in effective communication with engineers, which is pivotal for project success and seamless cooperation.

Link Building Specialist

As a link building specialist, the focus shifts to acquiring high-quality backlinks to enhance website authority and rankings.

This role demands persistence in building relationships, performing strategic outreach, and executing link-building strategies.

SEO pros interested in pursuing a career focused on off-site SEO must demonstrate the meticulous effort and specialization required in acquiring valuable links, making this role a dynamic and rewarding part of the SEO landscape.

• Salary*: $63,699 per year (Indeed).
• Duties: Acquire high-quality backlinks from relevant sites to enhance website authority, involving relationship-building and strategic outreach.
• Advice: Develop persistence and relationship-building skills; the role demands time and specialization in acquiring valuable links while avoiding what could be considered spammy links. It would be very detrimental to a link building specialist’s career if they were to get a website banned by Google for using bad practices.

Local SEO Specialist

Optimizing websites for local searches can be a specialized avenue in any SEO journey.

Local SEO specialists manage local citations and Google My Business profiles and ensure consistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone Number) data for region-specific platforms.

This role highlights the importance of attention to detail and local nuances for businesses aiming to attract nearby customers.

• Salary*: $62,852 per year (Indeed).
• Duties: Optimize websites for local searches, manage local citations and Google My Business profiles, and ensure NAP data consistency.
• Advice: Understand the nuances of local SEO; attention to detail and consistency are key for localized online visibility. Learn the various tools available to help manage these listings, such as RenderSEO and Yext.

Ecommerce SEO Product Manager

Working at ecommerce companies brings a unique challenge of its own.

SEO product manager roles require an SEO pro to specialize in optimizing online stores; the focus shifts to product optimization, category pages, site structure, and enhancing user experience.

Balancing SEO knowledge with product management skills becomes essential in navigating this niche, offering both challenges and lucrative opportunities.

• Salary*: $117,277 per year (Indeed).
• Duties: Specialize in optimizing online stores, focusing on product optimization, category pages, and user experience.
• Advice: Combine SEO knowledge with product management skills; leveling up enhances prospects in this unique and lucrative niche.

SEO Consultant

My role as an SEO consultant involved advising businesses on enhancing online visibility. Analyzing websites, developing customized strategies, and offering guidance on effective SEO became integral.

The SEO consultant role offers relief when I find myself out of work in my in-house roles due to a layoff or if the company culture isn’t a good fit.

While my consulting is a second and infrequent role, many SEO pros decide that consulting is what they prefer to do full-time.

Either way, providing optimization services to companies neglecting SEO is a great way to make a substantial income.

• Salary*: $63,298 per year (Indeed).
• Duties: Advise businesses on improving online visibility, analyzing websites, developing strategies, and offering SEO guidance.
• Advice: Gain diverse optimization experience; providing services to companies neglecting SEO can yield rapid improvement.

SEO Account Manager

Anyone interested in an SEO account manager role will experience the dynamic facet of serving as a bridge between clients and staff.

Meeting clients to understand their needs and relaying information for improved optimization efforts is the cornerstone of this position.

Performance-driven account managers could earn additional commissions, adding an incentive-driven layer to the role.

• Salary*: $68,314 per year (Indeed).
• Duties: Serve as a company’s point of contact, meeting clients and relaying information for improved optimization efforts.
• Advice: Understand industry standards; performance-driven account managers can earn additional commissions, boosting income.

SEO Data Analyst

An SEO data analyst role involves collecting and interpreting website performance and search rankings data.

Using tools like Google Analytics, Semrush, and Botify while obtaining knowledge of running SQL queries provides insights to inform strategic decisions.

This role underlines the significance of data analysis, specifically focusing on SEO-related metrics and their implications.

• Salary*: $76,575 per year (Indeed).
• Duties: Collect and interpret website performance and search rankings data, offering insights for strategic decisions.
• Advice: Know how to run SQL queries and manipulate data in Excel. Focus on SEO-related data analysis and understanding traffic from various search engines to improve decision-making.

SEO Manager

The majority of my roles in my career have been under the SEO manager title.

Those roles involved overseeing entire SEO strategies, developing comprehensive plans, managing teams, and ensuring alignment with overarching business goals. This mid-to-senior-level management position requires a diverse skill set.

• Salary*: $74,494 per year (Indeed).
• Duties: Oversee entire SEO strategy, develop comprehensive plans, manage teams, and ensure alignment with business goals.
• Advice: Understand what it takes to be a team leader. Nurture your team, build relationships in the organization, and articulate the benefits of what you’re asking to accomplish SEO growth. Management books like StrengthsFinder 2.0: Gallup by Don Clifton and Radical Candor by Kim Scott are great resources for becoming a good leader. If an SEO manager can tap into effective communication and leadership, the senior positions can lead to higher earnings of up to $210,000.

Notes:

The salary for the link building and local specialist roles are the same as that of an SEO specialist, since they tend to be at the same level.

In addition, the SEO product manager’s salary is taken from what a standard product manager makes since the roles are very similar.

Also, note that consultants can make upwards of $200,000 per year or more as they decide what to charge clients and how many clients they choose to take on.

*US National average salary reported by Indeed.com as of January 2024

Is SEO A Good Career Choice? Debunking Myths And Realities

Having navigated the dynamic landscape of SEO for over two decades, I have found that, while choosing a career in SEO has been rewarding, there are many things I would have done differently if I had the chance to do it all over again.

The good part about the SEO career path is that it unfolds across various roles, each offering unique challenges and opportunities for growth.

Starting from entry-level positions to assuming leadership roles like SEO manager, professionals gain a diverse skill set and invaluable experience.

However, it’s crucial to understand that the journey rarely leads to executive positions like director of SEO in larger companies and even more rarely to vice president positions.

The salaries of roles that SEO pros work with (i.e., product managers, engineers, growth managers, etc.) are much higher than what SEO pros usually make. So if it’s money you’re after in an SEO career, then you may be on the wrong path.

Agencies often embrace SEO professionals in executive roles, highlighting the need for a blended approach to SEO strategy involving in-house and agency collaboration. Still, the salaries tend to be less than for in-house roles.

Most SEO professionals should begin their journey as specialists and envision their desired position in 5 to 10 years.

If aspirations lean towards engineering, take the initiative to learn to code and acquire the necessary skills expected of an engineer. Collaborate closely with engineering teams, expressing a keen interest in contributing to their projects to transition to an engineering role.

For those eyeing executive roles in large corporations, strategically plan a career trajectory that navigates beyond SEO and aligns with roles leading to executive positions.

Typically, chief marketing officers (CMOs) have backgrounds in product marketing or growth marketing, progressing from directors to VPs in those domains before making the leap to CMO.

While SEO expertise enhances marketability, transitioning from SEO to these roles can be challenging. Therefore, be prepared to undertake the necessary steps to facilitate a smooth transition when the time comes.

For those contemplating an SEO career, embrace the diverse roles within SEO, each contributing to a robust skill set.

Junior roles provide foundational knowledge, strategists refine creativity and analytical abilities, and managers oversee comprehensive SEO plans.

It’s essential to evaluate personal preferences – whether one aspires to be a specialist excelling in a specific area or climb the ladder to managerial roles.

Be aware that large companies might not offer executive SEO positions, leading to the importance of understanding the industry’s dynamics and considering agency opportunities.

Education In SEO: Unveiling The Reality of Degrees

After spending over two decades submerged in SEO, a formal degree is not a prerequisite for a successful career in SEO.

My journey began with college, where I majored in English and Art History. However, realizing the potential in web design and development, I dropped out to focus on freelance work.

The SEO industry thrives on practical skills and hands-on experience, making degrees less significant.

Numerous online resources and guides offer a wealth of information to aid in mastering SEO techniques. It’s a field where continuous learning is integral, and personal initiative often surpasses the value of formal education.

The insights shared by others resonate with my own experiences. SEO is a realm where proven expertise often outshines academic credentials.

The industry includes individuals with diverse educational backgrounds, from MBAs to those without formal education. What matters most is the ability to adapt, learn, and implement effective strategies.

For aspiring SEO professionals, the key lies in taking the initiative, exploring online resources, and gaining practical experience.

Whether starting a business or pursuing a career, hands-on learning and staying updated with industry trends are the real benchmarks of success. While a degree might be a plus, it’s not mandatory for carving a rewarding path in SEO.

The Diverse Paths Of SEO

The potential routes within the SEO career landscape are numerous, starting with opportunities at agencies that provide an excellent learning ground, exposing individuals to various aspects of digital marketing.

Alternatively, one could enter an in-house position at a company where guidance from an experienced SEO professional is crucial.

Freelancing or working as an independent consultant presents another viable option, offering flexibility in the work environment and schedule.

The SEO career path encompasses a spectrum of roles, from entry-level to junior roles, strategists, managers, and senior managers, each with distinctive responsibilities and salary ranges.

Agency

One significant route involves commencing the journey at agencies, which serve as excellent learning grounds.

Working at an agency exposes individuals to various facets of digital marketing, offering a dynamic environment where skills are honed through hands-on experience.

This path allows for a comprehensive understanding of SEO within the broader context of marketing strategies.

In-House

On the other hand, individuals may choose to embark on an in-house position within a company.

The crucial guidance characterizes this path experienced SEO professionals provide in the corporate setting.

The in-house route often entails a deeper integration with the company’s goals and strategies, requiring a specialized skill set tailored to the organization’s needs.

Freelancing

For those inclined towards independence and flexibility, freelancing or working as an independent consultant represents a viable option within the SEO career landscape.

This path allows individuals to shape their work environment and schedules according to personal preferences.

Freelancers have the opportunity to work with a variety of clients, gaining diverse experiences that contribute to their professional growth.

Conclusion

In this exploration of the SEO career landscape, I am reminded of the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of SEO.

From my humble beginnings as a freelance developer optimizing websites to my most recent work as a consultant, each step has presented unique challenges and learning opportunities, adding to my comprehensive grasp of SEO.

These experiences have enriched my understanding of various business environments.

I hope this article helps readers interested in a career in SEO carve out a path for themselves.

More resources: 

Featured Image: New Africa/Shutterstock