Wondering which marketing strategy yields the best returns for businesses? SEO still reigns supreme, and HubSpot’s State of Marketing Report 2024 confirms it — SEO outperforms the other channels with the most significant ROI.

Yet marketing teams are still unclear on exactly how to drive traffic.

So what to do? As a content creator or strategist on a marketing team, the answer is SEO training.

Investing in SEO training on your own or with your team can give you the exact insights you need to transform your website content strategy to drive more traffic to your site.

In this article, find out how SEO training (specifically, ours) can help content creators and strategists by:

Getting to Know SEO Content Fundamentals

Does a falling tree in the woods make a sound if there’s nobody around to hear it? This question equally applies to content on your website. You could write the greatest article in history, but does it even matter if it doesn’t rank and no one reads it? Is it helpful, relevant and worth the effort?

SEO training covers the fundamentals of how to optimize content. These fundamentals turn a great article that no one will see into a great article that has a chance to compete in the search results.

Consider that for every given search, there are millions of search results. And all that matters is the first 10—maybe 20—results (depending on how far people are willing to scroll, and we know from historical data on SERP positions that it ain’t that far).

Without knowing how to ideate, create and optimize content in a way that competes in the search engines, you’re essentially wasting resources.

SEO training helps students learn the basics of search-engine-optimized content from start to finish, including:

• Finding the appropriate keywords. Keywords are words or phrases your target audience searches for when looking for what you offer in search engines. Selecting the right keywords ensures your content stays relevant and is picked by search engines when they decide which websites will rank for specific queries.
• How to do keyword research. Doing keyword research well requires more than just a list of words generated from a keyword tool. It takes discernment and strategy. Using the right tools is important, yes, but also understanding nuances like the intent behind keywords, choosing just the right keywords (traffic volume vs. competition) and choosing long-tail keywords is key.
• Optimizing content with keywords. Making sure your target keywords show up on the webpage in a way that actually reinforces the topic so that search engines understand that the content you wrote is an authoritative source takes some work. You can get pretty technical here, going so far as how often and where the keywords show up, as well as what related words should be on the page.
• Tweaking content for readability. SEO training can help you understand readability scores and how those might factor into how Google evaluates a webpage against others like it.
• Optimizing other elements of the content. SEO content doesn’t begin and end with keywords. Creating and optimizing content for meta tags, using header tags correctly and using alt attributes all contribute to a well-rounded, search-optimized webpage. And these types of tasks can fall squarely on the shoulders of content creators.

Understanding How to Enhance Content Quality

You most likely know what it takes to make great content, but do you know what Google thinks about it? SEO training gives you a complete understanding of Google’s content quality guidelines.

In most cases, if you are creating excellent content, you have nothing to worry about. But it is still critical to understand the rules.

Once you know what search engines like Google consider quality content, you can begin to see the connection between content and the algorithms that filter out poor-quality content in favor of high-quality content.

Just some of the things you can explore in more detail during SEO training include:

• How to create people-first content. Content should be made for people, not search engines, says Google. SEO training gives you the knowledge to prioritize the needs of your audience over search engine algorithms.
• E-E-A-T. Experience, expertise, authoritativeness and trust are key signals in Google’s quality guidelines. Being able to break down these concepts into your content strategy and individual content pieces helps you better compete in the search results.
• AI-generated content. AI is quickly becoming a go-to tool for marketers, and understanding how to use it effectively without the risk of losing rankings or suffering search engine penalties is critical. Marketers who get this piece wrong risk more than just lost rankings but also lost business revenue. For more, see my article on Search Engine Land about how to survive the search results with AI content.
• Other Google-created quality concepts. This includes “your money or your life” content, “needs met” ratings and how the reputation of content creators factors into quality content as outlined in Google’s Search Quality Rater Guidelines.

SEO training helps you enhance the quality of your content by delving deeper into the framework of what quality means to search engines.

By the way, it’s worth mentioning that we are bringing back my In-Person SEO Training course in 2025. Our next course is January 28–30 (see the website for the rest of this year’s dates).

Now is the perfect time to join me and learn my expert insights that will help you improve your content — and SEO — strategy. Seating is limited, so reserve yours before they fill up.

Register for the In-Person SEO Training

Keeping Up with Trends

Keeping up with search engines and SEO is a full-time job for content creators, strategists and marketers, and they already have enough on their plates!

SEO training is great because it informs you about the newest search engine algorithm changes and industry updates, and how to adapt to them.

Google has long championed quality content and continues to evolve its algorithms to suppress low-grade material from search results. Content creators and strategists have to stay on top of the changes if they want to stay competitive.

For instance, Google core algorithm updates, which can happen several times a year, can impact websites in many ways, with content often being a factor (see my article on Search Engine Land for more on surviving these updates).

And when Google rolled out new spam policies related to AI content, many marketers needed to quickly shift their content strategies.

Of course, nothing beats reading up-to-date news about SEO so you can adjust strategies as soon as needed.

However, given the current climate, SEO training takes a deeper dive into how to best handle SEO content and allows you to ask questions and clarify strategies with SEO experts.

In addition, incorporating new SEO techniques is another way training can make a significant difference. As technology advances, so do SEO strategies.

A good course will cover emerging practices like voice search optimization, AI-driven content creation and mobile-friendly content, which are increasingly important.

When content creators and strategists keep up with the latest changes in SEO, they can pivot quickly and stay ahead of the game.

Final Thoughts

SEO training covers essential areas of content that are competitive in the search results, including optimization basics, enhancing content quality, mastering SEO tools and staying updated with the latest trends.

Each area contributes to a more robust, data-driven content strategy that aligns with user expectations and search engine algorithms.
With a better understanding of SEO, you can make your content creation efforts pay off in competitive search results.

That’s why SEO training is not just an educational investment; it’s a strategic move that empowers marketers, content creators and strategists to drive significant improvements in their content strategy to attract more traffic and customers.

Join us for our next In-Person SEO Training With Bruce Clay. This training course will give you the knowledge and skills to build a content strategy that drives more visibility, leads, sales, customers and revenue. Reserve your seat today before they fill up!

Reserve your In-Person SEO Training seat

FAQ: How can I utilize SEO training to develop and execute strategies that improve my website’s ranking?

Search engine optimization training provides essential skills and knowledge needed for increasing website visibility in a highly competitive digital landscape. SEO training arms professionals with the knowledge of keywords optimization, link building strategies, content production techniques and technical SEO, all key elements to creating successful SEO campaigns.

SEO training teaches you how to adapt to changes in ranking factors as they evolve. It covers how to create high-quality, relevant content that ranks and appeals to your audience.

SEO training also covers advanced techniques such as schema markup and mobile optimization that are key for optimizing website performance and accessibility.

Implementing these strategies can be difficult. A lot of website owners struggle to stay abreast of SEO trends and algorithm updates, leading them to experience stagnation or decline of site performance. Continuing SEO education is necessary in order to remain current in search results and keep your website competitive in them.

SEO training is a great way for anyone looking to expand their SEO capabilities. It not only builds your expertise but also empowers you to build an SEO strategy that generates more traffic and visibility.

Step-by-Step Procedure

1. Explore SEO Training Options: When considering various SEO training programs, ensure they cover both foundational and advanced subjects.
2. Understand Search Engine Algorithms: Learn about how search engines rank pages and the factors which contribute to them being listed at the top.
3. Master Keyword Research: Conduct keyword research using tools such as Ahrefs, SEMRush or PreWriter.ai to discover high-value keywords relevant to your target audience.
4. Analyze Your Competitors: Research what your competitors are doing. Find any gaps and areas for potential improvement.
5. Optimize Website Architecture: Build your site with a well-structured architecture that is logical for users and easy to crawl.
6. Engaging Content Creation: Develop keyword-rich articles that meet user needs with engaging articles that capture reader attention and draw them in.
7. Enhance On-Page SEO: Increase search engine visibility through optimizing title tags, meta descriptions and internal hyperlink strategies.
8. Focus on User Intent: Align content with what users are seeking out for an increase in relevancy and satisfaction for them.
9. Create Quality Backlinks: Attract quality links through guest blogging, partnerships and content promotion to establish yourself as an authority figure online.
10. Utilize SEO Tools: Track performance with tools like Google Analytics, Moz and SEMrush in order to gain actionable insights.
11. Combat Technical SEO Issues: Fix broken links, and address duplicate content and slow page speeds to increase rankings.
12. Optimize for Mobile Users: Build your site so that it is easy to navigate for mobile users.
13. Implement Schema Markup: Use structured data to improve how search results display on your site.
14. Optimize Local SEO: Increase local searches by claiming and updating your Google My Business listing.
15. Voice Search Optimization: Develop strategies that specifically target natural-language queries used in voice searches.
16. Track SERP Performance: Evaluate keyword ranking performance to gauge how successfully your strategies have taken hold in search results pages (SERPs).
17. Conduct Regular SEO Audits of Your Site: Conduct routine SEO audits on your site in order to detect and address performance bottlenecks and performance bottlenecks that hinder its overall efficiency.
18. Keep Up With Industry Trends: Stay informed by industry developments by following reliable SEO blogs and attending relevant webinars. Keep Your Knowledge Current: To stay abreast with industry developments, subscribe to top SEO blogs and attend relevant webinars regularly.
19. Experiment With Innovative Tactics: Explore innovative tactics like interactive content in order to outshout competitors.
20. Collaboration Within Your Team: Share insights and align strategies across marketing, content production and technical teams.
21. Measuring Return On Investment (ROI): In order to demonstrate their investments’ return on effort, companies need to assess how SEO efforts impact traffic, leads, and conversions.
22. Continuously Refine Strategies: Leverage insights gained through analytics to refine campaigns and achieve improved results.
23. Celebrate Milestones: To maintain momentum for SEO efforts and spur team members forward onward, celebrate milestones to celebrate progress along your SEO journey and recognize progress made along your SEO path. Doing this can serve to reinforce and sustain efforts moving forward.

The post How SEO Training Can Transform Your Content Strategy appeared first on Bruce Clay, Inc..

SEO training can get anyone up to speed on SEO, from the foundations to the latest tactics. But choosing the right course can be hard. If you’re exploring SEO training options but aren’t sure where to start, this guide will help you.

1. SEO Training Is for Everyone Across Departments
   • Business Owners or C-Suite
   • Marketing Managers
   • IT Professionals
2. SEO Training Can Future Proof Your SEO Program and Career
   • Beginners
   • Intermediate Professionals
   • Advanced Practitioners
3. SEO Training Can Cover Broad or Niche Topics
4. There Are Different Formats to Choose From
5. Do Your Research Before Signing Up
   • Expertise
   • Relevance
   • Format
   • Content
   • Reviews

• In-Person SEO Training With Bruce Clay
• Final Thoughts
• FAQ: How can SEO training help improve my business’s online visibility, traffic and overall performance?

1. SEO Training Is for Everyone Across Departments

It’s obvious that a marketing department would benefit from SEO training, but a website represents much more than just marketing.

As the hub of a brand online, a website supports business goals in many ways. Ultimately. different teams across a company have a stake in how the website performs for the business and its audience.

So, who should consider SEO training? Let’s look closer at a few different roles.

Business Owners or C-Suite

Small business owners or corporate officers — whether they know it or not — should have an interest in search engine optimization.

First and foremost, SEO drives traffic to a website, often more than any other channel. For some industries, that figure is upwards of 50% of traffic to a site, according to BrightEdge research.

C-suite roles vary from CEO and CMO to CFO, COO and beyond. Yet they all stand to benefit from knowing how SEO can impact their goals.

It’s not just the bottom line — although BrightEdge data shows that B2B and tech companies generate 2X more revenue from organic search than other channels — the benefits can be more nuanced than that.

For instance, CFOs will need to understand how SEO can impact the business so they can make investment decisions. CTOs want to be sure websites stay innovative and perform well.

Marketing Managers

On the more tactical side of the business are the marketing managers, who focus on implementing C-Suite or business owner strategies.

Because marketing managers typically oversee bringing in the right people to implement the strategies, and are also responsible for tracking KPIs, they need to understand how SEO works.

Having a better understanding of the inner workings of SEO means they will bring on the right people and focus on the right KPIs.

They will also be able to have more intelligent conversations about SEO with their direct reports as well as their teams. And they will better understand how to leverage SEO to support their marketing initiatives.

All in all, this leads to a more informed, strategic approach to marketing campaigns.

IT Professionals

Another role that’s important in moving SEO initiatives forward (but may not be so obvious) is the IT department.

Sometimes, technical SEO initiatives need the IT team to be on board, for example, if you need to update aspects of site speed and performance, security or make updates to the content management system.

via GIPHY

When IT knows that the updates or technical fixes you are requesting have weight, you may be able to move them forward faster.

When all your teams are synced on the importance of SEO, they can work together, not in silos, to impact your business goals.

This is not just theory, check out my article on what happened when one major auto brand made SEO a company-wide initiative in CMO Directive: Think SEO or Work Somewhere Else.

2. SEO Training Can Future Proof Your SEO Program and Career

Gaining the skills you need to succeed in SEO not only helps you advance your career or business, but it also helps you create SEO programs that stand the test of time.

No matter what stage of the game you’re in, SEO training can positively impact your career, from beginner to advanced:

Beginners

SEO training can give a solid foundation of SEO knowledge by covering essential concepts. This helps newcomers understand the basics so they can begin to practice SEO.

Intermediate Professionals

For those with prior experience, SEO training can help these professionals focus more on advanced techniques so they can handle more complex SEO challenges or approaches.

At this stage in their career, some SEOs may begin to niche their skillset, focusing more heavily on one aspect of SEO or, on the other hand, broadening their skillset.

According to SEOjobs.com, companies are seeking senior-level SEO talent more and more. So SEO training is an easy way to uplevel skills.

Advanced Practitioners

Experienced SEOs never stop learning. My team at Bruce Clay Inc. builds continuing education into their work time by staying up to date on changes — on a daily basis.

Anecdotally, I’ve experienced SEOs returning to my SEO training classes annually as part of their ongoing professional development.

This is because SEO training can give professionals the opportunity to work through difficult SEO challenges during training by networking with peers and teachers and discovering new techniques they may not have thought of.

When you invest in your SEO education, you don’t become stagnant. And SEO demands dynamic professionals who keep up with the latest trends and best practices.

Related: 7 Ways SEO Training Helps You Succeed in SEO.

3. SEO Training Can Cover Broad or Niche Topics

Some SEO professionals are generalists, and some are known for their specific types of SEO.

Over the years, these professionals have moved towards the type of SEO they know best and love to do, and they continue to hone their strengths in those areas.

But it doesn’t come without learning and implementation. This is where SEO training can be helpful. Luckily, there are always webinars, training courses, and conferences about SEO, and many of them dive deep into a specific topic.

But that doesn’t mean you should disregard the foundational concepts, either.

To find your unique edge, start by building a strong foundation across all essential SEO disciplines, then refine and focus on one or two areas that align with your expertise and past successes.

Regardless of your specialization, there are core competencies every SEO should master to drive impactful results for clients.

These include:

• Conducting SEO website audits for pinpointing site issues.
• Performing keyword research, analysis and content mapping to align content with user intent.
• Earning high-quality links to boost domain authority.
• Mastering technical SEO to ensure site health and performance.
• Applying website architecture best practices for a seamless user experience.
• Understanding algorithms and SERPs to stay ahead of ranking shifts.
• Conducting competitive analysis to spot opportunities.
• Leveraging web analytics and SEO tools for data-driven decision-making.
• Developing optimized content that meets user needs and captures search intent.

For more, check out my article on Search Engine Land, How to Become Exceptional at SEO.

4. There Are Different Formats to Choose From

Conferences, webinars, local meetups, SEO publications, blogs, social media, forums, training courses, SEO books — there’s no shortage of resources when it comes to learning SEO.

Some people prefer in-person SEO training, while others want to learn online. Some like to learn at their own pace, while others want real-time training.

In fact, did you know that different generations prefer different types of learning?

The good news is that there are many different formats to choose from, and picking the right one helps increase your chances of success.

For example, we recently broke down the differences between in-person vs. online SEO training, looking at factors such as:

1. The learning environment: In-person offers a more structured, immersive setting, and online learning provides more flexibility.
2. Networking opportunities: In-person training allows for direct networking, while some online courses can offer virtual networking options.
3. Accessibility and cost: Online options generally reduce travel costs and are more accessible for learners with tight schedules.
4. Hands-on interaction: In-person classes can offer hands-on help in real time, but online training can also offer engagement through live support.
5. Self-paced vs. real-time learning: Online formats are often self-paced for independent learning, whereas in-person classes follow a set schedule.

Choosing the best SEO training format makes it more enjoyable and in line with your needs, so be sure to explore what’s out there before you sign up.

Do you learn better by attending a class in person? Bruce is hosting his next In-Person SEO Training course January 28–30, 2025. Sign up before Saturday, December 28 to get $400 off registration.

Register Now

5. Do Your Research Before Signing Up

With so many options out there, you really need to take a methodical approach to picking an SEO training course.

Consider setting up a spreadsheet and coming up with some parameters for the things that are important to you.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

Expertise

Make sure the instructors are teaching sound SEO practices. Usually, that means they will have been practicing SEO for many years and have made a name for themselves.

You can look for things like whether they are published in reputable SEO sources, have managed successful campaigns or hold industry-recognized certifications.

Relevance

SEO covers a lot of ground, so look for a course that hones in on your specific needs.

If your goals include local SEO, e-commerce optimization or technical SEO, check if the curriculum covers these areas in depth.

The best holistic SEO training courses are structured around both core SEO foundations and more tailored modules.

Format

Are you more of an active learner? Do you prefer to study independently?

As I mentioned earlier, choosing an effective SEO training format depends upon your own individual preferences and will have an effect on your success.

If you’re not sure, ask to preview the format before committing.

Content

SEO evolves quickly, so learning outdated techniques could set you back.

The best courses offer regular updates to the content, and some even provide graduates with access to refreshed content.

SEO membership sites like ours offer ongoing content access for the lifetime of the membership, keeping you informed of industry changes and current SEO strategies to stay ahead of your competitors.

Reviews

Finally, one effective way of assessing whether a course is worth your while is to examine its reviews. Positive testimonials and student success stories often signal courses that deliver.

In-Person SEO Training With Bruce Clay

By the way, I’m happy to mention that we are once again hosting my popular In-Person SEO Training course in 2025:

• January 28–30
• April 15–17
• August 12–14
• October 7–9

If you need to master SEO and start ranking now, this course is for you.

Over three days, I give you an in-depth exploration of all things SEO, from fundamentals and best practices to advanced techniques and strategies. When finished with the course, you’ll immediately be able to use what you learned to optimize website and SEO performance.

Signing up early or bringing several members can qualify you for discounts. I hope you’ll join me!

Register Here

Final Thoughts

With the right SEO training, you can take your skills — and your company’s or clients’ online performance to the next level.

Whether you’re a beginner building foundational knowledge, an intermediate professional seeking new techniques or an advanced practitioner looking to stay on the cutting edge, SEO training offers tons of benefits.

When you carefully choose the best training format and content for your needs, you’re setting yourself up to make a real impact.

Need quality SEO training? We’ve got you covered. Whether you prefer online SEO learning or an in-person classroom training environment, there’s no better way to learn how to do SEO than by training with Bruce Clay.

FAQ: How can SEO training help improve my business’s online visibility, traffic and overall performance?

SEO training is a vital part of today’s marketing strategies. Why? It arms you and your business with the skills to get noticed online, bring in more website visitors and drive business growth.

With SEO training, you dive into various topics. Think keyword research, on-page optimization, link building, using analytics tools and much more. Training covers all the essentials to help you build a strong online presence.

Picture this: You learn how to master keyword research, and suddenly you know exactly what your customers want. So, you tweak your content just right. Suddenly, your site ranks higher, and your audience thinks, “This is exactly what I was looking for!” That’s just a sliver of what SEO training can do for you.

Another key lesson in SEO training is on-page optimization, which is all about making each web page shine in the search results. You learn how to optimize on-page elements like meta tags, headings and site structure. A website that’s easy to navigate and understand isn’t just for search engines; it keeps visitors happy, making them stay on your site longer.

Don’t overlook link building, which is important in boosting your site’s credibility. SEO training shows you how to get those quality backlinks from trusted sources. You’ll learn how to create content so good that others can’t help but link to it. That’s the magic of link building.

Analytics is your secret weapon. Tools like Google Analytics help you track how your site is doing. SEO training teaches you to analyze data and use it to make intelligent moves that keep you at the top of the game. SEO goes beyond numbers — it involves understanding your audience behavior and adapting strategies accordingly.

SEO training clears up common headaches, like low traffic or being invisible online. These challenges are overcome when you apply what you learn in training. You learn what search engines care about and align your goals with those standards.

Step-by-Step Procedure

1. Dive into a detailed SEO audit to spot strengths and weaknesses.
2. Craft a keyword strategy using both short-tail and long-tail keywords.
3. Fine-tune your site’s on-page elements (meta tags, URLs, etc.)
4. Develop high-quality content that speaks to your audience.
5. Develop an effective link-building plan in order to secure valuable backlinks.
6. Use SEO tools to monitor performance and track metrics.
7. Embrace technical SEO to improve speed and mobile response.
8. Keep abreast of SEO trends and algorithm updates.
9. Build a community around your brand to drive engagement.
10. Work with other businesses and influencers to widen your reach.
11. Try different SEO techniques and see what works best.
12. Review and tweak your strategies based on data.
13. Keep investing in SEO training for your team.
14. Make SEO a part of your company culture.
15. Set clear goals and track them over time.
16. Leverage user-generated content to boost your reputation.
17. Explore new tech and tools to sharpen your SEO process.
18. Strengthen your brand presence with consistent messaging.
19. Use local SEO to attract nearby customers.
20. Watch competitors and carve out your unique path.
21. Stick to ethical SEO practices to build trust.
22. Adjust to customer feedback to meet their needs.
23. Plan a content calendar for regular publication.
24. Calculate and demonstrate the return on investment (ROI) of your SEO initiatives to show their worth.

SEO training can be transformative for businesses requiring increased online visibility and improved SEO performance. SEO education gives companies and professionals alike an in-depth knowledge of search. For businesses of any size, training provides invaluable skills necessary for successfully competing online.

The post 5 Things To Know Before Choosing an SEO Training Course appeared first on Bruce Clay, Inc..

Are you considering formal SEO training? You’ve got loads of options to sift through. But one of the very first decisions to make is whether to choose in-person SEO classes or online SEO training. Which is the better choice for you?

Understanding the differences between the two will help you answer that question. Read on as I discuss these nuances using our SEO classes and virtual training as examples.

• Main Differences Between SEO Classes and Online SEO Training
  • The Travel
  • The Material
  • The Pace
  • The Teacher Access
  • The Community
• How To Evaluate SEO Classes
  • Get to Know the Creators
  • Assess the Topics
  • Understand How the Information is Presented
  • Find Out How Fresh the Material Is
  • Read Reviews
• Which Should I Choose—In-Person SEO Classes or Online SEO Training?
• FAQ: How can I decide between in-person SEO training and online SEO training courses?

Main Differences Between SEO Classes and Online SEO Training

Let’s examine some of the differences between learning SEO in a classroom setting versus online.

The Travel

To travel or not to travel? That’s our question of the day. When it comes to travel requirements, SEO classes and virtual training sit on opposite sides of the spectrum.

SEO classes: If you’re going to get to an in-person SEO class, you’ve got to travel — in our case, that means traveling to our SEO classroom in Southern California. This, of course, involves things like airfare, accommodations and meals.

These logistics costs drive up your overall training investment. But there’s a huge upside — you get to indulge in a unique learning environment, which many find refreshing and motivating.

Online SEO training: Choosing online SEO training means you can study from literally anywhere, whether at home or at your local coffee shop. There’s no need to arrange for travel or book a hotel, either. All of this saves you substantial time and money.

You can also weave your training sessions into your existing schedule without the disruptions that come with travel.

The Material

Learning in a classroom setting typically allows for more in-depth, intensive lectures. Online training courses cover the information a little differently.

SEO classes: Our in-person SEO class, for example, goes for three full days, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., for an exhaustive exploration of pertinent SEO concepts.

Classes with an extended format allow students and instructors to deeply examine advanced topics through various training modes, including hands-on lessons and practical applications. We also provide a binder of print materials for added convenience.

And by the way — I am once again hosting my In-Person SEO Training class January 28–30, 2025. Over three days, I’ll teach you how to master SEO, outrank your competitors and drive business growth. Discounts are available, so reserve your seat now before they fill up.

Online SEO training: We condensed our classroom-based course into a virtual SEO training course. It’s packed with over 40 videos — approximately 15 hours of total training material — and covers all the most influential SEO subjects.

Though shorter than an in-person course, an online SEO training course still provides an in-depth introduction to SEO fundamentals.

Additionally, no course materials will need to be purchased separately.

The Pace

How would a multi-day SEO event make you feel? Invigorated or overwhelmed? Depending on your learning style and preference, choosing between in-person SEO classes and virtual training could be a cinch.

SEO classes: In-person classes happen in a very intensive learning environment. Over the course of three days in our SEO training, we cover a staggering volume of information.

For some learners, this can be demanding, but it is incredibly immersive. For an interactive and focused learning experience, in-person classes offer many advantages. If you ever need any assistance along the way, direct access will always be available through your instructor (me).

Online SEO training: A virtual training course structure is convenient and flexible, enabling you to train at your own pace. Log in and study anytime that best fits into your schedule, making managing training alongside other responsibilities a snap!

This self-paced approach ensures you can focus more on difficult topics while quickly covering more familiar material.

The Teacher Access

Few benefits are as substantial as having direct access to an expert SEO instructor throughout the learning process. Whether you want that access immediately or on a delayed schedule will help you decide which SEO training to put money into.

SEO classes: With in-person classes, you get several opportunities a day to ask questions and discuss specific SEO issues directly with the instructor.

This one-on-one style of interaction allows for immediate clarification and deeper discussions, cultivating a more personalized learning experience. Impromptu conversations during breaks and after sessions also add to the benefits.

Online SEO training: Some online training courses fall short because they don’t allow students to interact with their trainer. Our SEO training comes with monthly webinar Q&A sessions where you can interact in real time with me.

These scheduled sessions serve as a great opportunity to get answers to your most burning questions and voice any struggles you’ve dealt with over the past month. With regular support and guidance, you’re poised to thrive post-training.

The Community

We humans are social by nature. Many people do well in an open atmosphere, where they learn with like-minded peers in person. And others prefer to leave their social interactions online.

SEO classes: In-person SEO classes deliver rich, off-the-cuff conversation and plenty of relationship-building opportunities. The classroom setting encourages students to freely exchange ideas.

Networking often happens naturally as a byproduct of in-person learning, helping you build valuable professional connections.

Online SEO training: Each virtual training course is different, but our SEO membership training site features a vibrant virtual community forum. Here, students can talk openly about their search engine optimization struggles, offer helpful insights and raise each other’s spirits.

Virtual interactions evoke a collaborative training atmosphere, one that makes it easy to get familiar with people from diverse backgrounds.

Check out these related articles:

• 5 Things To Know Before Choosing an SEO Training Course
• 7 Ways SEO Training Helps You Succeed in SEO
• What Is SEO Training?

How To Evaluate SEO Classes

Maybe you’ve already decided that training is worth investing in, but can’t seem to choose a course. The sheer volume of options can be paralyzing – where do you go to get the best SEO education?

Whether you’ve settled on in-person SEO classes or virtual training, you need clear evaluation criteria to help you select your ideal course.

Remember: There are no academic standards for SEO training. As such, instructors’ knowledge and expertise, as well as the quality and depth of the training, vary widely.

Do the following when evaluating your SEO training options:

Get to Know the Creators

Absolutely anyone can create and sell a course. Taking a chance on subpar training courses is never good, as SEO has a direct impact on a business’s success and revenue.

To avoid issues, take the time to get to know the course creators better. Courses developed by bonafide industry veterans and reputable institutions tend to deliver dependable and valuable insights.

Keep a look out for trainers with verified SEO credentials, ideally those who have published reputable articles, spoken at industry-specific conferences or have a significant following.

The higher the course creators’ credibility, the better; courses from high-caliber creators will showcase their practical experiences in the industry as well as proven best practices.

Assess the Topics

Is your SEO class material comprehensive? Any worthwhile SEO training course reviews quite a few topics, spanning from fundamental SEO tenets to more sophisticated strategies. A few of them include keyword research, on-page and off-page optimization, technical SEO, content creation and the newest algorithm and technology updates.

In addition to that, it’s critical to figure out whether the training course showcases realistic examples and case studies that help you apply theoretical concepts.

The course should also touch on the newest developments in the SEO world as well as rudimentary ideas. Developing a strong understanding of these topics equips you to tackle real-world SEO issues head-on.

Understand How the Information is Presented

Based on your distinctive learning style, your decision may be swayed by how the instructor formats and presents the course materials.

Virtual courses featuring video tutorials, collaborative sessions, assessments and downloadable assets are valuable. They make sessions more captivating and productive no matter where you access them from.

By contrast, in-person SEO classes require you to commit to a predetermined schedule along with your classmates. The camaraderie often spawns motivation and energizes everyone involved.

Find Out How Fresh the Material Is

There are best practices, and then there’s Google. In other words, things change quickly when it comes to search results.

Best practices in SEO refer more to the right approach. However, strategies need to stay fresh because SEO is a moving target.

Training courses that are regularly updated to reflect the latest changes in SEO can help you stay ahead of industry shifts. This ensures you implement effective and compliant strategies with current search engine guidelines.

Read Reviews

Reviews and testimonials from past students provide insights into the effectiveness and quality of an SEO training course.

No training course will get 100% positive feedback, but more good than bad shows that most people value the training.

Look for reviews on independent platforms or ask for testimonials from the course provider. High ratings and strong endorsements from respected industry professionals can further validate the course’s credibility.

Check out these related articles:

• Who Should Take a Search Engine Optimization Training Course?
• 5 Questions To Evaluate Any SEO Training Course (my article on Search Engine Land)

Which Should I Choose—In-Person SEO Classes or Online SEO  Training?

All in all, deciding between in-person SEO classes and virtual training hinges on your learning desires, schedule and available budget.

In-person classes elevate the immersive aspect of learning with direct interactions and intensive material for learners who flourish in more structured, in-person environments.

Virtual training is all about flexibility. It is geared toward self-paced learning and the ease of studying in any location. People with tight schedules or limited travel options will find this mode of training most beneficial.

With our SEO training options, you get the best of both worlds! Students who take our in-person SEO class get a complimentary three-month membership to our virtual SEO training site.

Bottom line: Consider your wants and needs to determine which training format would best support your SEO learning journey.

Read this related article: It’s Time to Rethink Your SEO Training

Registration is open for my upcoming in-person training in January 2025. Space is limited — get your seat now before they fill up!

Register Now for the In-Person Training

FAQ: How can I decide between in-person SEO training and online SEO training courses?

Online SEO training course or in-person SEO training? Deciding between your training options can be a struggle. And there’s no wonder why, considering how much course information and training styles vary from course to course.

Both of these training pathways have distinct upsides, so the best tactic is to choose the option that aligns most with your desires, goals and lifestyle.

With in-person SEO training, you’re guaranteed face-to-face, real-time exchanges with fellow peers and trainers. In such a setting, it’s easy to get instantaneous feedback from your instructor. Plus, there’ll even be networking opportunities to take advantage of.

Online SEO courses are more flexible than an in-person setting. You don’t have to conform to someone else’s schedule to learn — you’re in charge of your own education process! Kick your feet up and study SEO wherever and whenever you want.

Above all, it’s important to think about your learning style before deciding on an SEO class format. If things like face-to-face interactions and structured environments float your boat, in-person training is likely to be a good fit for you. In this dynamic environment, you can ask clarifying questions and get the answers you need right away.

For anyone balancing a busy schedule with competing responsibilities, the most practical option is virtual training. These online courses combine engaging discussion forums, handy digital resources and pre-recorded lectures to offer the same quality of education with a more flexible structure.

Aside from your personal preferences, consider your professional goals. If you’re hoping to actively grow your industry connections to advance in your profession, in-person training will likely be your speed.

Conversely, if you’re primarily concerned with gaining technical skills in SEO, online courses deliver a ton of resources you can revisit to build a solid foundation.

And then there’s cost. Travel, accommodation, material and other costs associated with in-person training can very quickly add up. This makes online classes the more cost-effective solution, as they don’t typically require you to pay for these extras. Keep this in mind if you have a tight budget.

Here’s the bottom line: If you’re having difficulty selecting an effective training method, choose one that meets both your individual needs and circumstances best.

Evaluate your current SEO skill set, how deeply the course goes into SEO subjects, and any effects the training format may have on your preferences and professional objectives. It also helps to look at reviews from past trainees for additional insight.

Step-by-Step Procedure:

1. Pinpoint your learning style: Determine how you learn best, whether it be through self-paced learning or through interactive, structured environments.
2. Identify your goals as a professional: Decide whether acquiring skills or networking with like-minded individuals is important to you.
3. Assess schedule fluidity: Note the amount of time you can regularly devote to your SEO learning.
4. Consider your budget: Calculate the total cost of in-person training, from the cost of the course to accommodations and more. Determine whether it’s feasible for your budget situation.
5. Evaluate the content of your course options: Scan the syllabi for each course you’re considering. The goal is to ensure your chosen course examines the specific subjects you need help with.
6. Examine instructor expertise: Look into the background and reputation of instructors.
7. Read reviews and testimonials: Consult feedback from previous students to gauge course effectiveness.
8. Explore technological requirements: For online courses, ensure you have the necessary tech setup.
9. Assess personal motivation: Determine if you can stay motivated without face-to-face accountability.
10. Evaluate networking opportunities: Identify which format offers better professional networking chances for you.
11. Consider access to resources: Ensure the course provides sufficient resources and support materials.
12. Clarify learning objectives: Write down what you hope to achieve through the training.
13. Compare flexibility: Determine if you need the flexibility that online courses offer or the structure of in-person training.
14. Check engagement level: Evaluate if the course provides interactive elements to maintain your interest.
15. Understand assessments: Look into how your progress will be assessed, as well as how feedback will be provided.
16. Investigate support services: Determine the availability of tutor support or peer forums.
17. Plan long term: Consider how each type of training fits into your long-term career plans.
18. Trial sessions: If possible, attend trial classes or introductory sessions.
19. List requirements: Note all requisites and ensure you can meet them.
20. Align with learning pace: Ensure the course pace aligns with your learning speed.
21. Clear questions: Note down any doubts or concerns you have about each course.
22. Decision time: Weigh all factors and make an informed choice.
23. Register or enroll: Once decided, proceed with registration or enrollment.

Determining the ideal form of SEO training depends significantly on individual preferences, lifestyle and professional goals. Whether you opt for in-person or online courses, this decision will shape your learning journey and influence your success in the SEO field.

The post In-Person SEO Classes vs. Online SEO Training: The Differences appeared first on Bruce Clay, Inc..

Search engine optimization (SEO) is a powerful digital marketing strategy that drives business growth and success. When it’s done right, your brand becomes highly visible online and puts you right in your audience’s path during their digital journey.

Considering that 93% (nine out of 10) of all shopping journeys start on the web, few things are more vital.

That’s precisely why search engine proficiency is so essential for online success. SEO training lends you the know-how and skills to thrive in the dynamic search optimization landscape — regardless of what you’re faced with.

Continue on to learn seven ways SEO training can help you win in search:

1. Gives You Foundational SEO Knowledge
2. Gets Your Whole Team on the Same Page
3. Keeps You Updated on Changes
4. Helps You Create Comprehensive SEO Strategies
5. Facilitates Meaningful SEO Conversations
6. Uplevels Your Skills When You Need It
7. Builds Confidence in Advanced SEO Techniques

• Final Thoughts
• FAQ: How can SEO training help me improve my website’s visibility and ranking on search engines?

1. Gives You Foundational SEO Knowledge

The right SEO training provides a foundational (and correct) understanding of how SEO works.

It can cover everything from content and keywords to on-page optimization and link building to off-page SEO, user experience factors and even technical SEO.

For example, in my online SEO training course, we cover topics such as:

• The importance of SEO
• Basic SEO concepts
• Understanding the major search engines
• The anatomy of a website
• Content for SEO
• Mobile SEO
• Local search
• Linking strategies
• Siloing concepts
• Technical SEO
• SEO best practices
• Search now and in the future

But why take SEO training when you can read articles, join webinars and buy SEO books?

The answer is that the best SEO training course organizes the chaos, filters out incorrect information and educates you in record time.

SEO training should gradually present concepts in an organized way, giving you a solid foundation before jumping into advanced concepts. When you finish your SEO training, you should feel confident applying what you’ve learned.

2. Gets Your Whole Team on the Same Page

SEO should have a seat at the table in any strategic business meeting, let alone in a marketing department.

Because different teams within a company have a stake in a single website — each with competing initiatives — SEO training helps provide a baseline understanding of SEO so that strategic decisions can be made together.

For instance, when we sign a new client, I encourage all team members — even those in less obvious roles — to attend my SEO training. And they do, with great results.

Here’s an example of who should take SEO training and why:

• Business owners/c-suite executives: SEO training empowers business leaders to make informed strategic decisions about a site and understand the value of SEO for business growth. Training also helps them better allocate resources and set realistic expectations.
• Marketing managers: Marketing managers benefit from understanding SEO, as it enables them to align search optimization with their overall marketing strategies. It also helps them optimize campaigns and effectively manage SEO teams or external agencies.
• Content strategists and creators: These professionals learn to create SEO-friendly content, integrate keywords naturally and understand how content impacts search engine rankings.
• IT professionals: IT staff gain insights into technical SEO, which aids in improving site structure, load speeds and implementing best practices for website performance.
• Graphic designers and web developers: People who build or alter websites greatly benefit from understanding how their work impacts a site’s success in search results and user experience through the lens of SEO.

When team members across departments have the same baseline SEO education, the chances of being more successful with your SEO program increase.

3. Keeps You Updated on Changes

Due to ever-changing algorithms, SEO is a moving target.

Take Google’s core updates, for example – they occur many times annually. These dynamic changes can greatly affect search rankings, specifically when it comes to content relevance and quality.

Then there are tech innovations that totally alter how we think about and do our work (AI, I’m looking at you).

SEO training ensures you stay updated with algorithm changes and industry trends. This is vital for adapting your strategies promptly and effectively.

SEO training courses can provide insight into the following:

• Algorithm updates: Understanding the latest changes in search algorithms and how they impact SEO practices.
• Best practices: Learning updated best practices for SEO and refining your techniques to align with current standards.
• New technologies: Embracing new technologies like AI in SEO and understanding how they impact search.
• Case studies and examples: Reviewing real-world examples and case studies of how recent updates have impacted other websites.
• Community: Engaging with professionals who are learning SEO with you so you can share information about your experiences and learn from one another.

Staying informed through continuous learning and training allows you to proactively adjust your SEO strategies, future-proof your SEO program and ensure long-term success in the search results.

And by the way — I am once again hosting the In-Person SEO Training class January 28–30, 2025. Attendees walk away with the latest SEO best practices to set up their website and business for long-term growth.

I’ll be sharing my expert insights that drive organic traffic, online visibility, higher search ranking and more revenue. Seats are filling up, so get yours soon.

4. Helps You Create Comprehensive SEO Strategies

SEO checklists are great, but they should serve as companions to your SEO strategy, not as standalone strategies.

Understanding the rationale behind SEO tactics is critical. SEO training can help with critical thinking, enabling you to grasp why certain practices work and how they contribute to overall goals.

Having a well-rounded SEO strategy means seeing the big picture and how all aspects of a site and SEO—technical, on-page and off-page factors—are interconnected.

SEO training can help you get a comprehensive view of SEO to create a cohesive strategy while you explore strategic initiatives such as:

• How search works
• Keyword research
• Content strategy
• Competitor analysis
• User experience
• Performance monitoring

This deeper understanding allows you to make informed decisions about your SEO program and cultivates your problem-solving abilities.

5. Facilitates Meaningful SEO Conversations

Having a firm grasp on the current state of SEO empowers you to have worthwhile exchanges with your team, clients and stakeholders.

SEO training provides a conceptual understanding, which is necessary to discuss SEO topics plainly and with conviction. It also helps you better understand any recommendations that are being presented to you.

A better understanding of SEO also enables you to advocate for its importance within your organization or to clients.

Here’s why this is crucial:

• To make a strong case for investment. Present compelling arguments for why SEO is essential for business success. Demonstrate the potential ROI, outline the benefits of improved search visibility and show how SEO can drive organic traffic and conversions.
• To make evidence-based justifications. Training helps you use data and case studies to support your claims, making it easier to justify SEO investments. This might include showing how SEO improvements have led to increased traffic and revenue for other companies.
• To develop trust and credibility. Stakeholders better support SEO initiatives when you appear well-informed and passionate about their advantages.

In a nutshell: SEO training brings you up to speed on the inner workings of SEO and can assist you in making confident decisions about it.

6. Uplevels Your Skills When You Need It

Are you considering making a career change, pursuing a promotion or going out on your own? Educating yourself through SEO training gives you the push you need to bite the bullet and do it.

Search engine optimization training can boost your skills at numerous career stages:

• Beginners: SEO training provides foundational knowledge, covering essential SEO concepts. It helps new entrants understand the basics to start their SEO journey.
• Intermediate professionals: For those who’ve already got some experience under their belts, training introduces more nuanced techniques to clarify and expand existing knowledge and tackle more complicated SEO challenges.
• Advanced practitioners: Seasoned SEOs can gain valuable benefits from advanced training that covers innovative tactics to help them stay one step ahead of the competition. In fact, many professionals attend my SEO training annually as part of their continuing education.

Upleveling SEO skills opens up more opportunities. According to SEOjobs.com, senior-level SEO talent is in demand:

“…mid-level SEO roles are being impacted the most year over year. Q1 of 2024 vs. Q1 of 2023 shows an emphasis on hiring senior-level talent (+3%) and intern/entry-level talent (+1%), while mid-level is down (-6%).”

Here’s how SEO training can help:

• Skill diversification: Because SEO is multi-faceted, SEO training covers a broad range of topics, including technical SEO, content strategy, user experience and more. Continuous education enables you to broaden your skill set, increasing your value as a professional asset.
• Problem-solving: Through SEO training, you’ll receive guidance on the most current tools and techniques. You can utilize such advice to solve difficult SEO problems more efficiently.
• Professional growth: Engaging in regular educational development opens up your career possibilities and can lead to higher paying job opportunities.

Consistently upleveling your SEO skills ensures you remain knowledgeable, adaptable and effective in your SEO efforts.

7. Builds Confidence in Advanced SEO Techniques

SEO training gives students confidence in the area of advanced SEO techniques, including things like:

• Page experience factors: Understanding how a website contributes to user experience, the factors in Google’s algorithm that target user experience and the technical work behind them.
• Schema markup: Understanding and applying schema markup will increase search engines’ comprehension of your content, potentially leading to rich snippets in SERPs and improved visibility for SERPs.
• Voice Search Optimization: Optimizing content and SEO strategies to address voice searches that have become more prevalent with digital assistants such as Alexa and Siri.
• Technical SEO: Mastery of robots.txt functionality, crawl budget allocation, advanced search operator use for SEO purposes and other best practices often overlooked are essential skillsets of Technical SEO.
• Website architecture: Understanding how the site’s content is organized, along with the intricacies of file names and internal linking, affect site relevance and rankability.
• Advanced link building: Employing advanced link-building strategies designed to acquire high-authority backlinks using tactics such as broken link building, skyscraper content creation and digital PR.

The right SEO training gives you the skills to integrate advanced techniques into your SEO strategy. It gives you wisdom to troubleshoot and resolve complex SEO issues faster.

Final Thoughts

Investing in SEO training is a strategic move that offers long-term benefits. From foundational knowledge to advanced techniques, SEO training empowers you to make informed decisions, create comprehensive strategies and effectively communicate your SEO vision.

Staying updated on trends and continuously improving your SEO skills means you can help any business achieve sustained success in the search results.

Registration is open for my next in-person training. Learn how to master SEO, rank better now and grow your business.

Get Your Seat Now

FAQ: How can SEO training help me improve my website’s visibility and ranking on search engines?

Gaining an in-depth understanding of search engine optimization is paramount for those who want to increase their website’s exposure on search platforms. With an SEO training course, you’ll build substantial knowledge on SEO and the way it works systematically to increase your site’s search rankings.

Through the mastery of keyword research, on-page optimization and strategic linking, this educational resource provides the tools you need for organic search success. Google and other search engines rank organized, authoritative websites higher than others; SEO training instructs you on how to satisfy these criteria.

A fundamental concept you’ll become competent in is keyword optimization. Keywords are search terms and phrases people enter to locate products and services like yours online.

With proper SEO training, you’ll discover how to pinpoint the right target keywords for SEO purposes. You’ll also know where these keywords should be used on your website and how to determine their efficacy. Solid knowledge in this area enables you to align your content with what your audience is actively looking for, increasing the chance of your business coming up in the search results.

SEO training will also cover content creation, an undeniably critical area. Creating top notch, relevant content plays a significant role in piquing your visitors’ interest and keeping them engaged.

SEO training provides helpful guidance on how to craft content that’s both applicable to your target market and organized in a way that’s easily indexable by search engines. This encompasses understanding the significance of headers, meta tags and multimedia.

Technical SEO is another area of importance for search engine rankings and overall site performance. Through your SEO training, you’ll hone in on topics like mobile optimization, site speed and the importance of a secure connection.

All of these technical aspects affect how search platforms crawl and ultimately rank your website. Comprehensive SEO training gives you practical experience in making technical improvements on your site.

Yet another core strategy you’ll master in SEO training is backlink building. Gathering backlinks from authoritative sources in your industry hints to search engines that your site is a trustworthy information source. SEO training lays out tactics for getting high quality backlinks and ways to prevent penalties stemming from lower quality backlinks. This helps to raise your site’s ranking potential and industry authority.

Analytics and reporting are two additional aspects of SEO training. Through your education, your instructor will school you on site performance metrics that enable you to make data-driven decisions.

Specialists in the SEO field use tools and resources like Google Analytics to keep track of site traffic patterns, visitor behavior and conversion rates. Analyzing these metrics over time is crucial for meaningful strategy adaptation and refinement.

Since SEO is always evolving, algorithms and industry best practices are always in flux. To stay competitive in this dynamic landscape, you need to stay on top of all things SEO, and SEO training helps with that. The best training sessions go over the most current trends, new resources and algorithmic updates. This information can be used to bolster your website’s rankability and relevancy.

Way too many website owners wrestle with issues like low search rankings and visibility. You don’t have to be one of them. Taking an extensive SEO training course equips web owners with the information and expertise they need to properly revamp their sites.

Putting trusted SEO strategies to work grants you some amazing benefits like increased rankings and visibility and more search traffic.

Step-by-Step Procedure

1. Find a highly regarded SEO training course or program that covers both fundamental and advanced SEO concepts.
2. Sign up for your chosen training class and set a personal commitment to complete it.
3. Start off with training on keyword research, making it a point to become comfortable with keyword research tools like Google Keyword Planner, Ahrefs, and SEMrush.
4. Pinpoint high-volume, low-competition keywords that are applicable to your niche and audience.
5. Get into on-page optimization. The key here should be to understand best practices for keyword usage in meta descriptions, headers and title tags.
6. Learn all about how to create top quality content that is optimized for SEO and of substantial value to your target audience.
7. Dive into the importance and proper use of internal linking to boost your site’s structure and ease of navigation.
8. Explore technical SEO with a focus on boosting website speed with resources like Google PageSpeed Insights.
9. Learn which steps to take to enhance your site’s mobile friendliness. Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test will likely be referenced.
10. Take in information about website security and the many benefits of HTTPS. Also, if your site doesn’t currently have one, implement an SSL certificate.
11. Immerse yourself in the concept of schema markup, which can assist search engines as they try to understand your content.
12. Get up to speed on link-building methods, which typically involve reaching out to reputable sites for backlinks.
13. Stay far away from black hat SEO schemes, which often result in search engine penalties.
14. Configure and reference your Google Analytics and Search Console to monitor your SEO progress on a regular basis. User behavior, conversion rates and site performance metrics are all of importance.
15. Always remain up-to-date with emerging SEO trends and changes to search engine algorithms. You can do so by following and reading up on Moz and the Search Engine Journal.
16. Take your images to the next level by leveraging alt tags and very descriptive file names to encourage easier indexing.
17. Put out long form content that’s logically structured and user friendly. Ensure that it utilizes proper headings and subheadings.
18. Use media like videos and infographics to further boost user engagement and keep the bounce rate to a minimum.
19. Evaluate your site’s user friendliness. It should provide a smooth and easy visitor experience.
20. Audit your site now and again to diagnose and rectify SEO problems that could affect your site’s ranking potential.
21. Check out SEO-focused forums and communities to swap knowledge and advice and remain in-tune with changes in the industry.
22. Continually review analytical data and industry developments and revise your SEO strategies accordingly.

By employing these innovative strategies, you open yourself up to benefits such as enhanced website visibility and higher search engine rankings.

Comprehensive SEO training isn’t simply an investment in skills; it is also a long-term commitment that keeps your website healthy and competitive.

Few tools are as valuable as SEO training. It provides website owners everything they need to transform their website for the better, specifically in the areas of online exposure and ranking potential.

If you focus on areas like content quality, keyword research, technical SEO and more, you’ll find that you’re well-equipped to remain competitive in the SERPs. The step-by-step instructions outlined above help to facilitate a strategic SEO approach, solidifying your spot as an authority in the digital space.

The post 7 Ways SEO Training Helps You Succeed in SEO appeared first on Bruce Clay, Inc..

What does it take to succeed in SEO?

The answer is easy but the following things take work:

1. Management support and company-wide commitment
2. SEO training and education
3. Access to SEO experts
4. Reasonable expectations and a willingness to adapt

FAQ: What do companies need to focus on to achieve SEO success?

Let’s dive into the four critical things companies need to be successful in SEO.

1. Management Support and Company-Wide Commitment

Years ago, we delivered more than 100 pages of an SEO audit to one of the largest research and review sites in the automotive sector.

They wanted to do everything we recommended, and to do that, it involved everyone in the company, from the execs to IT to marketing and everyone in between.

So the chairman called a company meeting to announce that SEO would be a key initiative and that they were either on board or they could find somewhere else to work.

That may seem harsh, but their results paid off: A 900% increase in traffic in just the first week after launch.

Implementing SEO is like adding a new business strategy. You can’t “sort of” do SEO or pick and choose some SEO tactics while ignoring others.

This is why you first need management buy-in. The decision-makers need to see SEO as a high-level function. And then, when the company hires an SEO in-house or partners with an agency, they need to look at that role as an executive position.

The right SEO professional will make sophisticated, complex decisions about your online marketing strategy that can and should directly affect the bottom line.

Once management understands the importance of SEO as part of the business model, the commitment to the vision should trickle down from the top.

2. SEO Education and Training

How do you get management on board in the first place? It all starts with education on why SEO is a functional part of the business and how it can generate traffic and revenue.

It’s a big job trying to convince management that SEO is a critical component of the business. But luckily there are a lot of resources to help support your case for SEO.

For instance, you can:

• • • Read my article on six practical ways to get buy-in for SEO.
    • Watch the on-demand webinar on the same topic.
    • Educate executives and other stakeholders about the fundamentals of SEO with our Free Executive’s Guide to SEO video training.

Once you have buy-in, building company-wide support starts with SEO training. Training ensures your SEO practices are consistent, and that the team has a collective knowledge to work together.

With so many options to learn SEO, it can be hard to know which to choose. Over the past few years, companies have kicked online SEO training into high gear – but not all options are equal. To help you evaluate which training course is right for you, see my article on Search Engine Land.

It is time for businesses to rethink their SEO training. I recommend online training that provides the community and support of an in-person class. We have a great SEO training platform that gives you the education, resources and support you need to succeed in SEO.

3. Access to Expert SEOs

Sometimes educating management is smoother when you involve the experts like outside consultants, agencies or hiring in-house.

These professionals can help anyone better understand the breadth of what’s involved. They can also look at your website to give specific recommendations on strategy (called an SEO audit) and can serve as a sounding board for specific questions or problems.

They can also help put in place organization-wide SEO strategies for long-term success. These experts can be the teachers and trainers for your organization if you decide not to enroll in SEO training elsewhere.

Make sure to find an agency or consultant that offers services in line with your particular needs. For example, some SEO vendors only offer packages with little customization when what you really need is a block of hours to use however you choose.

Before deciding on outside help, brush up on the top expert skills of an SEO agency.

And if you’re hiring in-house, be sure to ask the right interview questions for SEO analysts.

4. Reasonable Expectations and a Willingness to Adapt

A healthy SEO strategy takes time. Understanding this is part of the education process before the SEO plan is even implemented. Programs that create long-term value are like fine wine – they get better with age.

Companies sometimes expect immediate rankings, traffic, and conversions. And they think SEOs are doing something wrong when they don’t see it.

Sometimes improvements to a site can show immediate results in some areas, other times the big impactful results don’t show for months.

It’s all about building momentum and results, and progress depends on the health of the site before the SEO implementation. SEO is not meant to be a quick-fix strategy. But once things start rolling, the ROI of SEO can be incredible.

It can also be hard for companies to let go of their site and trust it in the hands of others – or to try new SEO tactics in the face of a changing landscape. This is common when resources have been deeply invested in the development of the sites.

If you’re in good hands with your SEOs, then you need to learn to trust that they’re the experts.

And yes, it may take time to rebuild your site from an SEO perspective. It may also mean that much of what you’ve done with your site needs to be reworked.

But it’s all part of the SEO game. You will have to adapt SEO many times over to respond to Google changes, competition, and other changes and economic conditions; but SEO – when done right – is something you won’t regret.

If implementing in-house SEO feels daunting, let our experts run your SEO. You can learn more about how we help our clients excel with specialized SEO strategies that deliver real results. Fill out our contact form to schedule a FREE 1:1 consultation.

FAQ: What do companies need to focus on to achieve SEO success?

To achieve success in SEO, companies must focus on four critical aspects: management support and company-wide commitment, SEO training, and education, access to SEO experts, and maintaining reasonable expectations with a willingness to adapt. Implementing these factors requires effort and dedication, but the rewards are worth it.

Management Support and Company-Wide Commitment

For SEO to be effective, it requires a company-wide commitment. This means involving everyone in the organization, from executives to IT to marketing and beyond. A key step is gaining management support and making SEO a high-level function. When the decision-makers recognize SEO’s importance and dedicate resources to it, the results can be remarkable. For example, a research and review site in the automotive sector experienced a 900% increase in traffic within the first week of implementing SEO strategies.

SEO Education and Training

To gain management support, it is crucial to educate them on the value of SEO in driving traffic and generating revenue. Numerous resources are available to support this cause, such as articles and webinars focused on convincing stakeholders of SEO’s significance. Once the company understands the importance of SEO, training becomes essential. Consistent SEO practices and collective knowledge within the team can be achieved through training programs. When selecting online training options, prioritize those that provide a supportive community similar to an in-person class.

Access to Expert SEOs

Engaging SEO experts can greatly aid in educating management and implementing successful SEO strategies. These professionals, such as consultants or agencies, can offer recommendations through SEO audits, address specific questions or problems and develop organization-wide SEO strategies. It is important to choose an agency or consultant that aligns with your needs and offers customization options. Additionally, when hiring in-house SEO analysts, ask the right interview questions to ensure a suitable fit for your company.

Reasonable Expectations and a Willingness to Adapt

A vital aspect of successful SEO is maintaining reasonable expectations and being open to adaptation. It is crucial to understand that SEO strategies take time to yield results. While some improvements may have an immediate impact, significant and lasting outcomes may take months to materialize. SEO is not a quick-fix solution but a long-term investment. Trusting the expertise of SEO professionals and allowing them to make necessary changes is key. Embracing changes in Google algorithms, competition, and economic conditions is essential for continuous success.

Companies aiming for success in SEO should prioritize management support and company-wide commitment, invest in SEO education and training, leverage the expertise of SEO professionals, and maintain reasonable expectations while adapting to changes. By dedicating effort to these areas, companies can unlock the full potential of SEO and reap the long-term benefits it offers.

The post The 4 Critical Things Companies Need for SEO Success appeared first on Bruce Clay, Inc..

That is because for SEO to succeed, everyone in the company has to be on board, from the C-suite down to IT. That includes all decision-makers and everyone who touches a company website.

In this article, I’ll briefly explain the roles that can benefit from a search engine optimization training course and why.

• Business owners / C-suite
• Marketing managers
• Content strategists / Creators
• IT professionals
• Newbie SEOs
• Experienced SEOs
• FAQ: How can different roles within a company benefit from search engine optimization training? 

Business Owners / C-Suite

You are a decision-maker if you own a small business or are an executive at a mid to large-sized company. That means you set the priorities and, often, allocate the budgets.

If you do not understand the fundamentals of search engine optimization and how it can drive revenue for your business, you likely won’t:

• Prioritize SEO
• Make good decisions about SEO

Sure, you could rely on your team to make a case for SEO to get buy-in, or you could take an SEO training course at your own pace to really boost your digital marketing know-how. (Tip: We have a Free Executive Guide to SEO one-hour video course that gives you the basics. And for you SEOs out there, get your boss to take this … it will make your life much easier.)

Given that many C-suite positions do not require technical digital skills, a search engine optimization training course complements continuing education company goals.

Marketing Managers

Managers hire the right people with the right skills and often stay out of the details. But first, marketing managers need to understand what are the right SEO skills they need to hire.

And once they hire the right person or people, they need to be able to have intelligent conversations about the company’s SEO strategy and where it’s headed.

These conversations need to be tailored to both the teams working on SEO and the C-suite. Research shows that when CMOs are able to master marketing strategy, their budgets are more likely to be protected during a downturn, and they enjoy a 48% longer tenure.

Marketing managers and all of their staff and contributors should consider our SEOtraining.com membership site. No matter how senior you are, you will find that a quality program like ours that standardizes the training across your teams can change your life even more than you would expect.

Content Strategists / Creators

Getting the content piece right in your company’s SEO strategy is one of the most important steps you can take.

Eighty-six percent of B2B companies are already using their website and blog to distribute content as part of their content marketing plan, according to data from the Content Marketing Institute’s 11th Annual B2B Content Marketing Benchmarks, Budgets, and Trends report.

Yet the majority of respondents reported their content marketing strategy was only “moderately successful.” What’s more, 60% said the creation of new web content contributed to their success. But only 37% reported search engine rankings as a marker of their results.

So content strategists and creators need to be able to understand:

• The importance of content in SEO
• What types of content matter in SEO
• How to create quality content for SEO
• How to optimize content for SEO
• How to track content performance in SEO

Creating quality content that can compete in the search results is the No. 1 reason that content strategists and creators take a search engine optimization training course.

Read more: How B2Bs Can Make Their Content Marketing Perform Better

IT Professionals

This one might be the most surprising to you. But we find that the IT department often slows down SEO initiatives in many companies.

It is absolutely essential that IT folks understand why they are receiving requests from the SEO team to make updates to the company website.

IT people usually have a packed schedule filled with fixing bugs, putting out fires, and addressing people’s requests. If they do not understand the importance of making changes for the SEO team, those SEO requests can get put on the “lower priority” list.

I wrote about this issue in an earlier article here and highlighted data showing technical fixes can take up to a month or more to implement on a website.

So if you can swing it, ensure your IT people take a search engine optimization training course too.

Newbie SEOs

Professionals who want to add SEO to their skill set, new SEO hires at a company, or switching careers can benefit from a search optimization training course. In fact, SEO training is one of the best ways to get up to speed quickly on the fundamentals of SEO.

Experienced SEOs

Why would an experienced SEO take an SEO training course? As a refresher, of course. While the fundamentals rarely change, how we go about doing them does. Plus, search engines and the industry as a whole are fast-moving, so there is always something new to learn.

In fact, we’ve had SEOs with many years of experience under their belt come back to Bruce Clay Inc. for training once per year as part of their continuing education. It’s also why we continually update and expand our course materials.

Final Thoughts

Anyone who touches your company website should understand SEO. This is especially important when you have multiple departments and teams all making decisions about the website.

That means every decision should consider the question: How will this impact our SEO? The downside of not doing so is that one ill-fated change can ruin a company’s rankings and traffic, which can directly impact revenue.

See a demo and find out more about what’s included in our SEO training and membership program.

FAQ: How can different roles within a company benefit from search engine optimization training?

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) has emerged as a pivotal strategy for businesses aiming to enhance their online presence and drive organic traffic. While SEO is often associated with marketing teams, its impact extends far beyond this domain. From business owners to IT professionals, diverse roles within a company can reap significant benefits from comprehensive SEO training.

Business owners and C-suite executives play a critical role in setting the direction and priorities of a company. A solid understanding of SEO fundamentals empowers them to make informed decisions directly impacting revenue. Prioritizing SEO becomes seamless when decision-makers comprehend its potential to drive organic traffic and elevate the company’s digital footprint.

For marketing managers, SEO training translates into strategic prowess. Armed with the right SEO skills, they can intelligently guide their teams and engage in meaningful conversations with the C-suite. Research reveals that mastering marketing strategy correlates with budget protection during economic downturns, emphasizing the need for well-rounded SEO education.

Content strategists and creators, on the other hand, hold the key to crafting compelling narratives that align with SEO goals. Understanding the significance of content in SEO, and mastering optimization techniques, empowers them to create quality content that resonates with both search engines and target audiences. Tracking content performance and optimizing accordingly ensures the content’s visibility and impact.

Surprisingly, IT professionals also stand to gain from SEO training. Often tasked with website maintenance, IT departments can inadvertently hinder SEO initiatives due to a lack of understanding. Bridging this gap through SEO training ensures that technical fixes are prioritized, minimizing delays and streamlining website optimization efforts.

Finally, both newbies and experienced SEOs find value in continuous learning. SEO is an ever-evolving field, and staying updated is crucial for success. Newcomers benefit from rapid skill acquisition, while experienced practitioners gain refreshed perspectives and insights, ensuring their strategies remain effective in the dynamic digital landscape.

Search Engine Optimization Training transcends conventional boundaries, enriching various roles within a company. Whether through informed decision-making, strategic marketing, optimized content creation, or streamlined IT collaboration, the ripple effects of SEO training contribute to holistic business growth and success.

Step-by-Step Procedure: Unlocking Business Success with SEO Training

1. Identify Role-Specific Benefits: Determine how SEO training aligns with the responsibilities of different roles within your company.
2. Evaluate Training Providers: Research and select reputable SEO training providers that offer comprehensive courses tailored to diverse professional needs.
3. Engage Decision-Makers: Convince business owners and C-suite executives of the strategic advantages of SEO training for informed decision-making.
4. Empower Marketing Managers: Encourage marketing managers to acquire SEO skills to guide teams effectively and secure a budget allocation.
5. Optimize Content Creation: Train content strategists and creators on content optimization techniques, including keyword integration and performance tracking.
6. Bridge IT Knowledge Gap: Enlighten IT professionals on the importance of SEO-related technical fixes and streamlining website optimization processes.
7. Encourage Ongoing Learning: Motivate both novice and experienced SEOs to embrace continuous learning to stay current with industry trends.
8. Set Training Objectives: Define specific goals for each role undergoing SEO training, ensuring relevance and practical application.
9. Customize Training Modules: Tailor training modules to address the unique requirements of each role, enhancing engagement and learning outcomes.
10. Implement Knowledge Transfer: Facilitate sharing of newly acquired SEO knowledge across departments, fostering a collaborative approach.
11. Measure Training Impact: Establish metrics to gauge the impact of SEO training on decision-making, content performance, and website optimization.
12. Track Organic Traffic Growth: Monitor website traffic trends post-training to quantify the positive impact of SEO education.
13. Promote Cross-Role Learning: Organize knowledge-sharing sessions where different roles exchange insights gained from SEO training.
14. Foster Continuous Improvement: Encourage iterative optimization of SEO strategies based on insights gained from training.
15. Align SEO with Business Goals: Showcase how SEO training aligns with overall business objectives, enhancing its perceived value.
16. Celebrate Success Stories: Highlight instances where SEO training led to tangible positive outcomes, inspiring others to embrace the training.
17. Invest in Advanced Training: For experienced SEOs, consider advanced training programs that delve deeper into specialized areas of SEO.
18. Stay Updated: Regularly review and update SEO training materials to reflect the latest industry trends and algorithm updates.
19. Facilitate Peer Learning: Foster a culture of continuous learning by encouraging peer-to-peer knowledge sharing and collaboration.
20. Leverage SEO Insights: Integrate insights gained from SEO training into broader business strategies, maximizing its transformative potential.

The post Who Should Take a Search Engine Optimization Training Course? appeared first on Bruce Clay, Inc..

SEO training teaches you how to increase your website’s online visibility and traffic from search engines. More website traffic means more potential sales. Search engine optimization is a specialty, but every type of digital marketing job now requires some level of SEO knowledge. It’s that foundational.

Now more than ever, professionals and businesses are looking to level up their digital marketing. Marketers want to sharpen their SEO skills to make them better candidates and to create more business value. Businesses want to learn more about SEO to better compete in the search results and drive more revenue from it.

That’s when they turn to SEO training. But what exactly is SEO training — what are the choices in 2021, and how do you choose the best way to learn?

As someone who has been helping people learn SEO for more than two decades, I’ll provide the answers AND a long-awaited announcement, so read on!

In this article, let’s discuss:

• Why take SEO training
• What types of SEO training exist
• What’s new in SEO training
• What will you learn in SEO training
• How do you choose
• FAQ: How does SEO training contribute to better job opportunities in digital marketing?

Why Take SEO Training?

Answer me this: What’s the biggest reason someone would take an SEO training course rather than just go it alone? I mean, there are lots of website articles you can read with how-tos and advice from many different sources. So why take a course?

The answer: The best SEO training course organizes the chaos, filters out the wrong information, and educates you in record time.

Training should present concepts layer upon layer in an organized way. An SEO course should give you a solid foundation before advanced techniques. And when you finish the course, you should have a solid understanding and feel confident to apply what you’ve learned.

What Types of SEO Training Exist?

There are a lot of ways you can obtain an SEO education in 2021.

Online training: Online SEO training has been growing in popularity. This includes everything from introductory to technical content and can range from single webinars to virtual conferences to complete courses that take a deep dive into how to do SEO.

When it comes to online courses, there are a variety of formats as well, including:

• The prerecorded course that may or may not have live interaction
• The live, interactive course with real-time instruction
• The free online video course (a la YouTube)
• The paid online course
• Some combination of the above

Classroom training: Things are a little different now than they were a year ago, to say the least. Prior to 2020, our popular in-person SEO training was the primary format for how we delivered SEO training, be it in our SEO classroom here in Southern California, at a conference somewhere in the U.S., or our global on-site training.

The classroom setting offers advantages like personal interaction with experts, a tailored training experience, and even networking opportunities.

If in-person learning is more your style, not to worry: we’ll see classroom training come back soon. In fact, I’m tentatively planning to hold a small SEO training class later in 2021, all things permitting. But that doesn’t stop you from getting trained sooner through virtual learning opportunities.

Books: It’s worth mentioning books as a category of SEO training. SEO books can be a great way to introduce yourself to SEO, supplement what you already know, or serve as a reference guide when you get stuck. (Shameless plug: Check out my 700-plus page SEO for Dummies book as a primer.)

You can mix and match these formats throughout the year to stay on top of SEO. Or, you can find an all-inclusive training option — which leads me to an announcement …

What’s New in SEO Training?

I am excited to announce that for the first time ever, Bruce Clay SEO Training is now available online!

What’s new is that we’ve expanded SEO training into more than just a course. Our new site, SEOtraining.com, is membership-based to provide a comprehensive, ongoing SEO training experience.

Members get the full training course with online benefits such as on-demand access and self-paced learning. In addition, membership includes resources such as ebooks, deep-dive mini-courses, a discussion forum, new content as its released, a subscription to our SEO tools, and even live events such as a monthly Q&A session with me.

Watch the trailer and then head over to SEOtraining.com if you’d like to learn more.

What Will I Learn in SEO Training?

SEO training can teach you everything from the very basics of how to understand search engines to more technical SEO strategies that will keep your website primed for organic traffic.
As an example of what you should expect to learn in an SEO training program, I’ll share the sections that I cover in our curriculum:

1. The Importance of SEO
2. SEO Concepts
3. Meet the Search Engines
4. Website Anatomy
5. Search Now & In the Future
6. Content for SEO
7. Mobile SEO & Page Experience
8. Local Search
9. Linking Strategies
10. Siloing Concepts
11. Technical SEO
12. Best Practices

SEO Training: How Do I Choose?

Of course, there is no standardized way of doing SEO training. The same goes for actually doing SEO. So your SEO education will vary widely depending on who you’re learning from. That’s why it’s important to vet your instructors.

Especially when you are investing money into training, make sure to:

• Get to know the reputation, expertise, and authority of the instructor(s) and company leading the training.
• Look at attendees’ reviews and testimonials, which are usually featured along with the course. (If there are no reviews or so-so reviews, move on.) If you’re curious, you can even check out our SEO training reviews.

Even if you aren’t investing money, you want to make sure you are getting sound SEO advice. Bad SEO advice will ultimately cost you in the long run in the form of poor rankings and possibly even search engine penalties.

If you want to be the person who understands exactly what to do to improve your organic rankings and traffic, you need solid SEO training. Check out our new SEOtraining.com today!

FAQ: How does SEO training contribute to better job opportunities in digital marketing?

Staying ahead in the fast-paced digital marketing arena requires having an in-depth knowledge of how consumer engagement occurs online, and visibility occurs via SEO training; this basic skill offers many career options.

SEO training is integral to professional development, equipping professionals with the knowledge and abilities necessary to enhance a brand’s online presence. By mastering keyword research, content optimization, and technical SEO, individuals can position websites to rank higher in search engine results pages (SERPs). This directly translates to increased organic traffic, a key performance metric that businesses value.

Moreover, SEO training goes beyond website optimization. Employers that recognize SEO’s value in business growth will appreciate such expertise. This involves understanding user behaviors, search engine algorithms, and digital marketing trends – an array of information employers are eager to hear about when hiring someone with such knowledge.

A distinct advantage of SEO training is its versatility across industries. SEO principles remain constant in e-commerce, content creation, and social media. This adaptability empowers professionals to explore diverse job roles, from SEO specialists and content strategists to digital marketing managers.

In addition to technical skills, SEO training hones critical analytical abilities. Professionals learn to dissect website performance metrics, derive insights from data, and make informed decisions to refine strategies. This blend of creativity and data-driven decision-making is a hallmark of successful digital marketers.

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, staying updated is paramount. Reputable SEO training programs cover the fundamentals and emphasize staying current with industry trends. This proactive approach ensures professionals can navigate algorithm updates and emerging technologies, solidifying their credibility as experts.

SEO training is a transformative force in digital marketing, unlocking many job opportunities for those who invest in honing their skills. The ability to drive organic traffic, adapt to changing algorithms, and decipher analytics are invaluable assets in a competitive job market. By enrolling in credible SEO training programs, aspiring digital marketers can embark on a journey of growth, expertise, and limitless potential.

Step-by-Step Procedure: How to Leverage SEO Training for Enhanced Job Opportunities in Digital Marketing

1. Understand the Basics: Familiarize yourself with the foundational concepts of SEO, including keywords, on-page and off-page optimization, and user intent.
2. Choose Reputable Training Programs: Research and enroll in recognized SEO training courses from reputable institutions or online platforms.
3. Keyword Research Mastery: Learn how to conduct thorough keyword research to identify high-impact keywords relevant to your target audience.
4. Content Optimization: Understand the nuances of optimizing website content, including incorporating keywords naturally, structuring headings, and enhancing readability.
5. Technical SEO Proficiency: Gain expertise in technical aspects such as website speed optimization, mobile responsiveness, and structured data implementation.
6. Stay Current: Continuously educate yourself about the latest SEO trends, algorithm updates, and best practices through blogs, forums, and industry publications.
7. Data Analysis Skills: Develop the ability to analyze website performance metrics using tools like Google Analytics to identify areas for improvement.
8. Create a Strong Portfolio: Showcase your SEO skills by working on personal or volunteer projects and document the results achieved.
9. Networking: Attend industry events, webinars, and conferences to connect with fellow professionals and potential employers.
10. Build a Personal Brand: Establish a strong online presence through blogging, social media, and sharing valuable SEO and digital marketing insights.
11. Apply for Internships: Gain practical experience by applying for internships or entry-level positions in digital marketing agencies or companies with robust online platforms.
12. Adaptability: Embrace the ever-changing nature of digital marketing and SEO and demonstrate your ability to adapt to new algorithms and technologies.
13. Certifications: Pursue relevant certifications such as Google Ads and Analytics certifications to bolster your credibility.
14. Craft a Standout Resume: Highlight your SEO training, skills, and practical experience in your resume tailored for digital marketing roles.
15. Prepare for Interviews: Anticipate questions about SEO strategies, challenges, and your approach to driving organic traffic.
16. Demonstrate Results: During interviews, discuss specific instances where your SEO efforts led to improved search rankings, organic traffic, or conversions.
17. Soft Skills Matter: Emphasize soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, which are vital for success in digital marketing roles.
18. Continuous Learning: Commit to ongoing learning and skill development to maintain your edge in the competitive digital marketing landscape.
19. Negotiate Strategically: When presented with job offers, negotiate based on your expertise, the value you bring, and industry standards.
20. Stay Passionate: Cultivate a genuine passion for SEO and digital marketing, as your enthusiasm and dedication will set you apart in your career journey.

By following these steps, you can leverage your SEO training to unlock a world of job opportunities and excel in the dynamic field of digital marketing.

The post What Is SEO Training? appeared first on Bruce Clay, Inc..