Performing the various responsibilities the position entails requires SEO managers to build a diverse set of skills.
The most important are:
Strategic thinking:
SEO managers must be able to think strategically. The position’s core responsibility is to develop SEO strategies that the business can use to achieve its marketing objectives.
Project management: SEO managers have to plan and oversee multiple projects simultaneously. This requires strong project management skills to ensure everything stays organized and delivered on schedule.
Analytical thinking: The SEO manager role is a highly analytical position. You need the ability to review data and reports to find areas where you can improve your SEO strategy.
Communication skills: SEO managers frequently interface with their own teams and with clients. As such, it is essential to be an effective communicator as it helps ensure everyone is on the same page and projects run smoothly.
Technical expertise: Like other types of digital marketing, SEO professionals rely heavily on software and other tools to perform their work efficiently. Some tools you need to know to use as an SEO manager include Google Analytics, Google Search Console, Ahrefs, SEMrush, Moz, and Screaming Frog.
SEO managers need a basic understanding of HTML and CSS to make site updates.
Conversion rate optimization: An SEO marketing manager must know how to optimize web pages for conversions. This is known as conversion rate marketing. With this skill, you can turn more of your web visitors into customers.
On-Page SEO: As an SEO manager, you need to know how to optimize the various on-page elements of web pages to help boost their SEO friendliness.
Technical SEO: SEO managers need to know what technical SEO factors Google considers when ranking sites. You can then configure your website to follow all SEO best practices.
Copywriting: SEO managers need to understand what goes into effective copywriting. This allows you to oversee the creation of high-quality content that is engaging for your target audience.
Adaptability: SEO managers must be flexible and ready to adapt to emerging trends. SEO changes frequently as Google modifies its algorithm and competitors adjust their SEO strategies. Similarly, technology also advances rapidly. This requires SEO managers to learn how to use new tools continuously.
