seo classes Archives - Bruce Clay, Inc.

5 Things To Know Before Choosing an SEO Training Course

Bruce Clay — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 20:08:05 +0000

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.

SEO Training Is for Everyone Across Departments
SEO Training Can Future Proof Your SEO Program and Career
SEO Training Can Cover Broad or Niche Topics
There Are Different Formats to Choose From
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.

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.

Bruce Clay teaching in-person SEO training in his Southern California SEO classroom

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:

The learning environment: In-person offers a more structured, immersive setting, and online learning provides more flexibility.
Networking opportunities: In-person training allows for direct networking, while some online courses can offer virtual networking options.
Accessibility and cost: Online options generally reduce travel costs and are more accessible for learners with tight schedules.
Hands-on interaction: In-person classes can offer hands-on help in real time, but online training can also offer engagement through live support.
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.

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!

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

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

In-Person SEO Classes vs. Online SEO Training: The Differences

Bruce Clay — Mon, 09 Sep 2024 17:23:13 +0000

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:

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!

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:

Pinpoint your learning style: Determine how you learn best, whether it be through self-paced learning or through interactive, structured environments.
Identify your goals as a professional: Decide whether acquiring skills or networking with like-minded individuals is important to you.
Assess schedule fluidity: Note the amount of time you can regularly devote to your SEO learning.
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.
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.
Examine instructor expertise: Look into the background and reputation of instructors.
Read reviews and testimonials: Consult feedback from previous students to gauge course effectiveness.
Explore technological requirements: For online courses, ensure you have the necessary tech setup.
Assess personal motivation: Determine if you can stay motivated without face-to-face accountability.
Evaluate networking opportunities: Identify which format offers better professional networking chances for you.
Consider access to resources: Ensure the course provides sufficient resources and support materials.
Clarify learning objectives: Write down what you hope to achieve through the training.
Compare flexibility: Determine if you need the flexibility that online courses offer or the structure of in-person training.
Check engagement level: Evaluate if the course provides interactive elements to maintain your interest.
Understand assessments: Look into how your progress will be assessed, as well as how feedback will be provided.
Investigate support services: Determine the availability of tutor support or peer forums.
Plan long term: Consider how each type of training fits into your long-term career plans.
Trial sessions: If possible, attend trial classes or introductory sessions.
List requirements: Note all requisites and ensure you can meet them.
Align with learning pace: Ensure the course pace aligns with your learning speed.
Clear questions: Note down any doubts or concerns you have about each course.
Decision time: Weigh all factors and make an informed choice.
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..