At Emplibot, we’ve seen firsthand how crucial SEO has become for businesses in the digital age.
But what is an SEO strategist, and why are they so important? In this post, we’ll explore the role of these digital marketing experts and how they can drive your business growth.
We’ll also help you determine if it’s time to bring an SEO strategist on board and what to look for when hiring one.
What Does an SEO Strategist Do?
The Architects of Online Visibility
SEO strategists design and implement strategies to boost a website’s ranking on search engines, drive organic traffic, and increase conversions. They transform businesses by making them more discoverable to potential customers.
Daily Tasks and Responsibilities
An SEO strategist’s work involves a mix of technical tasks and creative thinking. They:
- Conduct thorough keyword research
- Analyze competitors
- Optimize website content
A study by Backlinko reveals that the #1 result in Google’s organic search results has an average CTR of 27.6%, which underscores the importance of strategic SEO work.
These professionals also focus on improving website structure and performance. They ensure that sites load quickly and are mobile-friendly. A Conductor report shows that even milliseconds can impact bounce rates, conversion rates, and ultimately your bottom line.
Essential Skills for Success
Successful SEO strategists possess a unique blend of analytical and creative skills. They:
- Analyze data constantly
- Adjust strategies based on performance
- Combine SEO with content marketing efforts
The Content Marketing Institute reports that 70% of marketers see improved results when they integrate these approaches.
Technical skills are also essential. SEO strategists should understand HTML, CSS, and JavaScript basics to implement on-page optimizations effectively. They must stay updated on the latest algorithm changes and industry trends, as Google makes thousands of updates annually that can significantly affect search rankings.
SEO Strategists vs. Other Digital Marketers
While there’s overlap with other digital marketing roles, SEO strategists have a distinct focus. Unlike content marketers who primarily create engaging content, SEO strategists ensure that content is optimized for search engines and user intent. They work closely with web developers to implement technical SEO improvements (a task content marketers typically don’t handle).
SEO strategists also differ from paid search specialists. While both aim to increase website visibility, SEO focuses on organic growth through unpaid strategies. This approach often yields long-term benefits, with SEO leads having a 14.6% close rate compared to 1.7% for outbound leads (according to Search Engine Journal).
As we move forward, it’s clear that an SEO strategist’s role is multifaceted and dynamic. But how does this translate into tangible business growth? Let’s explore the impact of an SEO strategist on a company’s bottom line in the next section.
How Does an SEO Strategist Drive Business Growth?
Elevating Visibility and Traffic
An SEO strategist’s primary objective is to improve a website’s search engine rankings, which directly impacts organic traffic. Around 67.5% of SEO experts believe backlinks impact search engine rankings, highlighting the importance of this aspect in SEO strategy.
Creating a Superior User Experience
SEO extends beyond pleasing search engines; it focuses on creating a better experience for users. Implementing a solid SEO strategy that incorporates UX principles ensures the website is accessible, intuitive, and efficient for users, which is crucial for both search engine rankings and user satisfaction.
Optimizing Return on Investment
One of the most compelling reasons to invest in an SEO strategist is the potential return on investment. Unlike paid advertising (which ceases to generate results when you stop paying), SEO efforts can have long-lasting effects. Capturing organic searchers reduces reliance on paid channels and provides a more sustainable marketing approach.
Targeting Qualified Traffic
SEO strategists don’t just increase traffic; they attract qualified traffic that’s more likely to convert. Through strategic keyword targeting and optimization for user intent, they ensure that visitors to your site have a genuine interest in your offerings. This targeted approach often results in higher conversion rates and more efficient use of marketing resources.
Adapting to Algorithm Changes
Search engine algorithms constantly evolve, and an SEO strategist stays ahead of these changes. They monitor updates, analyze their impact, and adjust strategies accordingly. This proactive approach ensures that your website maintains (or improves) its rankings even as search engines refine their algorithms.
The role of an SEO strategist clearly extends beyond simple optimization. These professionals serve as key drivers of business growth through their multifaceted approach to online visibility and user experience. But how do you know when it’s time to bring an SEO strategist on board? Let’s explore the signs that indicate your business might benefit from dedicated SEO expertise.
When Is the Right Time to Hire an SEO Strategist?
Signs You Need SEO Expertise
Recognizing the right moment to bring an SEO strategist on board can transform your business. Many companies delay this decision, missing valuable growth and visibility opportunities. Here are clear indicators that it’s time to invest in SEO expertise:
Stagnant or Declining Organic Traffic
If your website’s organic traffic has plateaued or decreased, you need an SEO strategist. A study by BrightEdge shows that 68% of all trackable website traffic is sourced from organic traffic and Paid Search, vastly exceeding all other channels, including Display and Social Media. If you don’t see this level of organic traffic, an SEO strategist can identify and address the issues holding you back.
Poor Search Engine Rankings
Do your competitors consistently outrank you for important keywords? This indicates you need professional SEO help. An SEO strategist can conduct a thorough competitive analysis and develop a strategy to improve your rankings.
High Bounce Rates and Low Conversion Rates
If visitors leave your site quickly or fail to convert, poor SEO might be the culprit. An SEO strategist can optimize your site structure, improve user experience, and ensure your content matches user intent. This can lead to significant improvements in engagement and conversions.
Lack of In-House SEO Knowledge
Many businesses attempt to handle SEO internally, but without proper expertise, this can lead to ineffective strategies or even search engine penalties. If your team lacks dedicated SEO knowledge, consider hiring a specialist. The SEO industry changes rapidly. A professional SEO strategist stays on top of these changes and adjusts strategies accordingly.
In-House vs. Outsourced SEO
When hiring an SEO strategist, you have two main options: bringing someone in-house or outsourcing to an agency or freelancer. Both have advantages.
In-house SEO strategists become deeply familiar with your brand and work closely with other departments. They’re always available and can respond quickly to changes or emergencies. However, they can be more expensive when you factor in salary, benefits, and ongoing training costs.
Outsourced SEO strategists often bring a wealth of experience from working with various clients. They typically have access to a wider range of tools and can often be more cost-effective, especially for smaller businesses. However, they may not be as immediately available or as deeply integrated with your team.
(If you’re considering outsourcing, Emplibot offers comprehensive SEO services as part of its content marketing automation solution.)
Evaluating SEO Strategist Candidates
When hiring an SEO strategist, look for a combination of technical skills, analytical abilities, and creativity. They should have a proven track record of improving search rankings and driving organic traffic. Ask for case studies or examples of their work.
Look for candidates who understand the latest SEO trends and best practices. They should be familiar with tools like Google Analytics, SEMrush, and Ahrefs.
Communication skills are essential. Your SEO strategist needs to explain complex concepts to non-technical team members and provide clear, actionable reports. They should also collaborate effectively with other departments, as SEO touches many aspects of your business.
Be wary of any SEO strategist who promises quick fixes or guarantees specific rankings. SEO is a long-term strategy, and reputable professionals will set realistic expectations.
Final Thoughts
An SEO strategist plays a vital role in today’s digital landscape. These professionals architect digital visibility, craft strategies to elevate search engine rankings, and drive organic growth for businesses. Their impact extends beyond keyword optimization to enhance user experience, improve website performance, and align digital strategies with business goals.
SEO expertise offers long-term value that compounds over time. Unlike paid advertising, a well-executed SEO strategy can benefit a business for months or years, increasing visibility and building credibility with the audience. For businesses struggling to rank for key terms or seeing stagnant organic traffic, it’s time to consider hiring an SEO strategist.
Tools like Emplibot can complement the work of an SEO strategist by automating content creation and distribution. This allows businesses to maintain a consistent online presence while focusing resources on strategic SEO initiatives. Investing in SEO expertise lays the foundation for sustainable online growth and long-term business success.
