18 Things to Know About The SEO Industry Before Starting Your Career
Unlock the intricacies of the SEO industry with direct insights from seasoned professionals who have shaped the field. This article distills expert advice and practical tips for those ready to navigate the rewarding yet challenging world of SEO. Embrace the journey with confidence, armed with knowledge from authorities who have mastered the art of search engine optimization.
- Focus on Hands-On Projects
- Know SEO is Rewarding and Challenging
- Stay Current with SEO Trends
- Adapt to Unique SEO Challenges
- SEO Requires Patience and Consistency
- Showcase Verifiable SEO Results
- SEO Requires Continuous Learning
- Patience is Key in SEO
- Understand SEO Industry Dynamics
- SEO is a Constantly Evolving Field
- Show Genuine Interest in SEO
- Evidence of Results is Crucial
- SEO is Fast-Paced and Dynamic
- Understand In-House vs Agency SEO
- Focus on Conversions Over Traffic
- SEO is More Than Keyword Stuffing
- Learn SEO Before Transitioning
- Specialize in an SEO Area
Focus on Hands-On Projects
If you’re new to SEO, focus on hands-on projects instead of just focusing on taking courses. Build a simple website and apply SEO strategies in real time. Play around with it. Testing and failing is part of the process.
Take on free or low-cost projects to get experience. The best way to learn SEO is by doing it, not just reading about it. You can also find a mentor who can guide you and help you avoid common mistakes. Even after years in SEO, I’m still learning and testing new things. So, don’t be afraid to mess up, ask questions, and experiment—that’s how you truly grow in this field.
Sonia Urquilla, SEO Consultant for Female Coaches, SEO by Sonia
Know SEO is Rewarding and Challenging
Before applying for an SEO role, one should know that a career in SEO is both rewarding and challenging. Potential candidates should have patience and adaptability to succeed in this field. Moreover, practical experience is a must, along with fundamental knowledge. It can be gained either by working on your own blog or by joining a company as an SEO intern.
Additionally, candidates should have a brief knowledge of on-page, off-page, and technical SEO. Having a basic understanding of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript is a big plus. SEO used to be limited to backlink building and on-page optimization, but now it is considered an essential part of a holistic digital marketing strategy. Hence, you should also have an understanding of other marketing channels.
Rakshit Panchal, SEO Manager, Sydney Digital Agency
Stay Current with SEO Trends
When I first entered the SEO world, it felt like stepping onto a treadmill that was already operating at full speed. I recall being tasked with optimizing a client’s website shortly after significant search engine algorithm updates were revealed—and all the “best practices” I had learned from college textbooks became obsolete. That experience imparted a vital lesson I wish I had learned sooner:
SEO is a constantly shifting landscape, and staying current is your most valuable skill.
This means you will spend equal time learning and putting it into practice. When I started, I was surprised by how fast yesterday’s methods lost their importance. I worked on a site that had many backlinks from questionable domains, which used to be a good tactic. New updates penalized them overnight. Our team had to quickly adjust, learn new ways, and carefully fix those links to bring back the site’s trust. If you become too comfortable, you might fall behind.
What does this mean for a recent graduate or someone moving into SEO?
- Curiosity and Adaptability: Continue to read trusted SEO blogs, listen to search engine updates, or participate in online groups. See every day as an opportunity to find the next trend or make a small change.
- Experiment and Analyze: Understanding theory is useful, but practical experience will provide greater insights. At the beginning of my career, I worked on my personal blog—adjusting keywords, changing metadata, and observing rankings go up (and down). That practical experience provided me with examples to share in interviews, demonstrating that I could do more than just repeat buzzwords.
- Collaboration Counts: SEO doesn’t work alone. You’ll work with developers, writers, designers, and stakeholders. The best SEO pros I’ve worked with turned search data into insights that helped the whole team.
Ultimately, accept the unpredictable aspects of SEO. Maintain an open approach to learning, and don’t feel disheartened when the methods you relied on just a short time ago appear outdated in the near future.
Sanjit Sarker, SEO Head, SEO Agency Boston
Adapt to Unique SEO Challenges
SEO isn’t a one-size-fits-all game. Every website has unique challenges, and while the core principles stay the same, outside-the-box thinking is a must.
It’s a mix of creativity and strategic problem-solving, where you’re constantly adapting to algorithm updates, industry shifts, and competitive landscapes. The key to long-term success is never getting too comfortable. SEO is always evolving, and complacency is the fastest way to fall behind.
If you lean too far into just the technical or just the creative side, you’ll miss the full picture. The best SEOs understand how to balance both, while leveraging data and technical know-how while crafting strategies that actually connect with users.
Jason Berkowitz, Founder, SEO Director, Break The Web
SEO Requires Patience and Consistency
SEO isn’t for the impatient. That’s the first thing I’d tell anyone considering this field.
When I started, it was a hard truth to swallow: results take time. Sometimes weeks, sometimes months. Unlike other industries, SEO requires patience and consistency. You’ll deal with plenty of frustration, especially when you’re craving instant results. But SEO works on compounding effects—the longer you stick with it, the bigger the payoff.
But here’s the thing: SEO is a mix of creativity and data, and balancing the two is where the magic happens. Staying on top of constant updates, algorithm changes, and new tools is a must, but being adaptable is what sets you apart.
SEO is a game of testing, tweaking, and experimenting. Failure is part of the journey. If you’re someone who thrives on learning through trial and error and enjoys solving long-term challenges, SEO will reward you. Success isn’t given; it’s earned.
Forget the standard 9 to 5 grind. SEO is more like a puzzle that never stops shifting. If you need immediate results or constant validation, you’re better off looking elsewhere. But if you love figuring things out and seeing your work directly impact outcomes, SEO could be the perfect fit.
Just know, you’ll never stop learning.
Shankar Subba, Head of SEO, WP Creative
Showcase Verifiable SEO Results
Job seekers should know that in SEO, employers only want to see easily verifiable experiences that led to measurable results.
So, on your resume/portfolio, say, “I’ve done [x] for SEO that resulted in [y].”
If you don’t have an SEO portfolio, make one. Spend 3-6 months, up to 12 months, making 1-2 blogs/small sites and ranking for something. That will help you demonstrate that you know your craft.
Document your development of this portfolio. “I published [x number] pages that result in [y amount] monthly organic traffic.”
Lead with actions and their direct results when interviewing as well, if questioned. And make sure to question the interviewer as well. Ask about the agency, what your role will be like, how you will fit in, and what your future will look like there.
Given how fast SEO changes, the last question is perhaps the most important one they should answer.
Bogdan Krstic, Founder, Krstic SEO
SEO Requires Continuous Learning
The SEO industry is indeed an exciting opportunity for new grads and people considering a career change. However, from my experience in this industry, there’s a major factor to consider. That’s its tendency to evolve and take unexpected turns, meaning learning will be ongoing!
While other fields require foundation knowledge that remains viable for years, search engine optimization relies on algorithms and user preferences. It means that while some concepts form a foundation, the winning strategy will require learning and adapting to user changes.
To stand out in a crowded job market with so much talent, focus on the ability to learn quickly and apply what you have learned. Quick adaptability is a desirable skill that SEO managers seek. Create a solid base for the basics, like keywords, quality link-building, and on and off-page SEO. These skills, being curious and showing a willingness to learn and gain knowledge, will be a beneficial combination.
Some steps you can take before actively applying for SEO roles are following some SEO-centric blogs or becoming familiar with some widely used search engine optimization tools. Also, several courses are available if you are considering specializing in a specific area of SEO. The most recognized places to receive specialized knowledge around SEO are Google Analytics, HubSpot, SEMrush academies, and others from prestigious names in search engine optimization.
If you’re not yet an expert in all things SEO, it doesn’t matter. Managers don’t expect new grads or entry-level job seekers to know everything. However, they expect to be greeted by someone with a positive and growth-seeking mindset! Showing that you are willing to learn and put in the extra effort to get ahead of shifting trends will set you up for a bright career in the dynamic SEO ecosystem.
Shailendrakumar Kori, SEO Manager, D’Genius Solutions
Patience is Key in SEO
One thing a new grad or job seeker looking to change careers should know about the SEO industry is that patience is key to success. SEO is a long-term strategy, and results often take months to materialize. Unlike other marketing disciplines where outcomes can be immediate, SEO requires consistent effort, testing, and optimization over time. This can sometimes lead to impostor syndrome, especially when progress feels slow or uncertain. However, understanding that SEO is a marathon, not a sprint, is crucial for staying motivated and focused.
To succeed in this field, it’s important to explore continuous learning. SEO is constantly evolving due to changes in search engine algorithms, user behavior, and industry trends. Staying updated through blogs, newsletters, and industry leaders on LinkedIn, communities and YouTube can help you stay ahead. Additionally, developing analytical skills is essential, as SEO relies heavily on data to measure performance and make informed decisions.
A practical takeaway for anyone entering the industry is to set realistic expectations—both for yourself and for stakeholders. For example, when working on a campaign, clearly communicate that results may take time and focus on incremental progress rather than immediate wins. This approach not only builds trust but also aligns everyone’s expectations with the nature of SEO.
In summary, if you’re considering a career in SEO, be prepared for a journey that requires patience, adaptability, and a commitment to learning. While it may not always feel rewarding in the short term, the long-term impact of your efforts can be incredibly fulfilling.
Muhammad Asad, SEO/Founder, SEO Bulletin
Understand SEO Industry Dynamics
Breaking into SEO can be challenging, but understanding industry dynamics early helps. One key difference between SEO and other fields is that many startups and smaller companies undervalue it or hesitate to invest. Unlike paid ads, SEO doesn’t deliver immediate results, and attributing conversions directly to organic efforts can be tricky.
This means entry-level roles can sometimes be underpaid or undervalued. If you’re just starting out, you may find that lower-tier gigs offer limited budgets, slow progress, and unclear expectations. However, once you prove your ability to drive results in one of many SEO spheres your value increases significantly.
Advice? Build a strong portfolio, experiment with your own projects, and practice your reporting skills. The more you can showcase real impact, the easier it will be to land better opportunities.
Aleksa Filipovic, Content & SEO Manager, MeasureSchool
SEO is a Constantly Evolving Field
If I had to boil it down to one absolutely crucial thing a new grad or career changer should understand before diving into SEO roles, it would be this:
SEO is not a static rulebook, it’s a constantly evolving, living ecosystem.
Let me explain what I mean by that, because it’s more than just memorizing keywords and building links (though those are pieces of the puzzle).
See, a lot of people think of SEO as this fixed set of tricks and tactics you learn once, apply, and boom—rankings skyrocket.
Why surfing?
- The Ocean (Search Engines) is Always Changing: Google, and other search engines, are constantly updating their algorithms. What worked brilliantly yesterday might be less effective, or even penalized, tomorrow. You’re dealing with a dynamic system that’s always being tweaked and refined. Just like the tides and waves, SEO best practices shift and change.
- You Need to Adapt and Learn Continuously: You can’t just learn one surfing technique and expect it to work in every wave condition. Similarly, in SEO, you need to be a perpetual student. You’ll be constantly learning about algorithm updates, new tools, evolving user behavior, and emerging technologies (like AI in search, voice search, etc.). If you’re not comfortable with continuous learning, you’ll quickly get left behind.
- It’s About Understanding the Flow (User Intent & Search Landscape): A good surfer reads the wave, understands its energy, and positions themselves accordingly. In SEO, you need to understand user intent – what are people really searching for? What kind of content will truly satisfy their needs? Competitive—who else is trying to rank for similar keywords and what are they doing? It’s about how you plan your strategies.
If you go into the SEO industry with this mindset of continuous learning and adaptability, you’ll be in a much stronger position to thrive. It’s a challenging but incredibly rewarding field for those who are intellectually curious and enjoy solving puzzles in a constantly changing environment.
Yash Raj, SEO Executive, KneeXpert
Show Genuine Interest in SEO
The most critical thing you can do as a new graduate is show employers that you are truly interested in SEO/digital marketing.
You can do this by obtaining free certifications for software such as SEMrush, Google Analytics 4, Google Search Console, and Google Tag Manager.
If you put in the effort to obtain certifications, that puts you ahead of any other new graduates applying for the same role who do not have certifications.
Another item that will have a big impact is finding a website (through partnering with a local business/friend or family member who has a business) and offering to do free SEO work on their website.
Even if you are on a budget, there are many free SEO tools that you can use to gain insights and make optimizations.
Hiring managers are putting a lot of thought into choosing the right candidates, and having real experience to put on your resume will help you stand out from the crowd and land the interview.
Don’t be turned off from applying for a job because the listing requires 1-2 years or more of experience. Many teams are looking to hire people who show interest in learning, and will have room to grow at the company.
Charles Fazio, Manager, SEO, Agency FIFTY3
Evidence of Results is Crucial
Particularly coming from a business that is recruiting hard in 2025, the one thing those looking to enter the SEO industry should know is that employers are looking for a track record. You could also call this evidence.
Ultimately, you can reduce risk for the agency or company by demonstrating previous evidence of creating positive growth. This doesn’t necessarily need to be SEO growth; it could be social media followers or sales, but by doing so, you’re allowing the employer to put more trust in your expertise and initiative.
With how easy it is to start a social media project, sell a product, or start a blog or YouTube channel, there’s no excuse not to demonstrate this kind of experience in your application.
Aled Nelmes, Founder & CEO, Lumen SEO
SEO is Fast-Paced and Dynamic
The SEO industry moves fast—what worked a year or even a few months ago might not work today. If you’re looking for instant results, a set-it-and-forget-it approach, or a field with rigid rules, a career in SEO might not be the best fit. Strategies change, rankings fluctuate, and success usually requires problem-solving, patience, and a lot of testing. But if you love figuring things out, keeping up with trends, and balancing creativity with data, SEO could be the right fit for you.
Savanna Pruitt, SEO and Content Manager
Understand In-House vs Agency SEO
One key thing to know about the SEO industry before applying is the significant difference between working in-house versus at an agency. In an agency setting, the pace is often fast, with multiple clients to manage, frequent strategy shifts, and a strong emphasis on client communication. In contrast, in-house SEO roles tend to focus on long-term strategy for a single brand, allowing for deeper specialization but often with slower-moving projects. Understanding which environment suits your work style can help you find the right fit in the industry.
Alexa Rees, Senior SEO Strategist, seoplus+
Focus on Conversions Over Traffic
Be prepared to shift your KPIs from organic traffic growth to conversions, as CEOs and business owners are solely focused on conversions these days. If I were just now entering the space, I would gain as much knowledge about CRO while learning SEO.
Lora Bovie, Director of SEO, Rising Fox SEO
SEO is More Than Keyword Stuffing
Remember, SEO is more than just keyword stuffing. It is very dynamic; it leans more toward improving understanding of human behavior than vocally perfected.
Keep this in mind:
SEO is about solving people’s problems with respect to what the search is all about. I’m basically talking about being a detective and storyteller combined. Why do people search? What are they implicitly looking for based on those queries they put on Google? In what way can your content help them?
If you’re trying to get into this profession, here’s my advice:
Become genuinely interested in user intent. It’s not just a skill, it’s an art. Companies are seeking not just individuals who are adept at optimizing a webpage, but they like strategic thinkers who can crack the complex psychology of search.
Start asking yourself: Why would a person search for “best running shoes for marathon training,” and not just “running shoes?” What are they really looking for? How could content be written to truly answer that underlying want?
REMEMBER, the most successful SEO professionals are not tech robots; they are empathetic problem solvers. These guys understand that behind every search is a human, who has a specific desire or challenge. Try to master that perspective, and you will stand out in ways a simple 2-page technical resume never could.
Arslan Habib, Digital Marketer | Business Strategist, Global SustainabilityJobs List
Learn SEO Before Transitioning
Before jumping into an SEO career, make sure you have some knowledge first. Keep your 9-to-5 job, learn SEO 5-to-9 to learn—join SEO groups, read, take courses, and stay on top of algorithm updates. The more you learn, the easier the transition will be!
Sam Pileggi, Co-Founder, LaborTech Solutions
Specialize in an SEO Area
The SEO industry is becoming far more fragmented—the difference in skillset between a technical SEO specialist and a link building specialist are huge.
For the former, it’s essentially a data and coding job, and for the latter it’s primarily a creative job.
So I’d recommend that someone entering the SEO industry should take stock of what they are good at, and what type of work they want to do, and then pick an area of SEO to try and specialize in from the start.
The primary areas of specialization in SEO right now are:
- Technical SEO (lots of data analysis and coding skills required)
- On-page SEO (similar to copywriting)
- Link building and digital PR (very creative and people-focused)
As you get more senior in your career, you’ll see intersections between these specializations and can become competent at more than one of them. But it’s best for people entering the industry to just focus on one to start off with.
Sacha Fournier, Co-Founder, JournoFinder
