How to become an SEO analyst

SEO analysts, or Search Engine Optimization analysts, improve a website's prominence and ranking on search engine results pages (SERPs). They use tools and techniques to drive organic traffic to a website.

Becoming an SEO analyst involves completing education, gaining experience, obtaining an SEO certification, and working with clients. Learn more about the duties of an SEO analyst and what steps you need to take to become one.

What does an SEO analyst do?

An SEO analyst enhances websites to drive more traffic to them, thereby reaching higher rankings in search engines. They optimize a website's content, structure, and technical features to align with search engine algorithms. SEO analysts may work as freelance consultants, for marketing agencies, or in-house for companies.

Some job responsibilities of an SEO analyst include:

• Keyword research: Identifying relevant keywords and search phrases potential customers would use
• On-page optimization: Improving content, headers, meta tags, and other website elements to make them friendlier to search engines
• Off-page optimization: Building backlinks and enhancing the authority of the website
• Technical optimization: Making sure the website is technically stable by examining the website's speed, crawlability, indexing, and mobile responsiveness
• Analysis: Monitoring a website's performance metrics through SEO tools such as Google Analytics
• Analysis of competitors: Examining competitor websites' SEO strategies to see where a website can improve
• Content: Working with content creators to create interesting, SEO-friendly content

Steps to become an SEO analyst

Because the position of SEO analyst is relatively new, there is no single pathway to becoming one. The steps below are suggestions on measures you can take to become an SEO analyst.

Step 1: Get a bachelor's degree (optional)

While a bachelor's degree is not required for all SEO analyst positions, having one in a related field can be beneficial. Majors such as marketing, communications, information technology, and business can help you become an SEO analyst.

Courses in digital marketing, web analytics, data analysis, and emerging technology and trends are recommended.

Step 2: Obtain work experience at a marketing agency

Once you have completed your education, working at a marketing agency or company can give you valuable experience that you can use in becoming an SEO analyst. Jobs in which you use SEO tools for research, analysis, and development of content may help you to build upon your experience.

Obtaining practice using key techniques and skills is the best way to learn what you need to become an SEO analyst. Soft skills that you may learn and build upon from working in the field include communication and interpersonal skills, analytical and strategic thinking, and organization skills.

Step 3: Get SEO certification (optional)

Getting SEO certification is optional, but recommended, in your quest to become an SEO analyst. Some SEO certifications are available for free online, while others charge a fee. They can vary in duration from 4 to 200 hours.

An SEO certification shows potential employers and clients that you have optimal knowledge and skills in SEO.

Step 4: Build your portfolio and take on clients or work in-house

After completing the above steps, you are ready to work freelance or in-house as an SEO analyst.

Create a website that can serve as your portfolio, showcasing your expertise and services. Include a page about you, one outlining the SEO services you provide, and a portfolio page that displays projects you have completed that emphasize your SEO capabilities. Include reviews of your work from clients.

If you opt to work in-house as an SEO analyst, you should still maintain a portfolio featuring your best work. This will allow you to take on other positions or work in a consultancy or freelance capacity if necessary.

Get started on edX

Courses on edX can help you to explore the field of SEO. Consider taking a course in digital marketing, communications, or critical thinking skills to further your knowledge and capabilities in SEO.