How to become a Search Engine Optimiser

Job Definition

A Search Engine Optimiser (SEO) differs from a Webmaster and a Web Designer in that he or she is responsible for marketing a website, as oppose to designing it.



Basically, a Search Engine Optimiser's knowledge base lies in knowing how Search Engines and Directories index and rank websites and can therefore re-design existing sites in order to raise the amount of visitors they receive.



A basic technical and design knowledge is required for this job, almost to the extent of a Web Designer, but a SEO also needs sound business and marketing skills.



The main factor a SEO has to deal with is the fact that the industry changes on a daily basis, so you have to be able to adapt quickly. It's not what you know - it's how well you adapt to the changes!



Qualifications

Similar to that of a Webmaster but with a less technical focus.



You could learn online what you need to know about Search Engine Optimisation, but an IT or Marketing background would be beneficial to you.



You don't really need any qualifications to be a SEO, but some Web Design knowledge and experience will be necessary if you want to this professionally.



Experience

You will need experience in the following areas to become a SEO:

Web Design

General IT skills

Key Skills

Some knowledge of the following would be necessary:

Search Engines

Web Design

Marketing

Reciprocal Links

Directory sites

HTML

Graphic Design

Keywords

Copywriting