Can a Former Database Administrator Excel as Your SEO?

I won't completely agree with Jason's statement that a former database administrator can do an excellent job as an SEO, especially given the multifaceted nature of search engine optimization (SEO) today. While marketing skills are undoubtedly valuable in promoting content and websites, there are numerous technical aspects that can trip you up if not properly addressed.

Technical vs. Marketing Perspectives in SEO

SEO is not just about creating eye-catching content or tested marketing strategies. It requires a deep understanding of technical elements that can either boost or hinder your website's ranking. For instance, incorrectly placed code within your website's code or hidden doorway pages can significantly impact your search engine rankings and even lead to penalties.

Assessing Your Former Database Administrator

Given your former database administrator's analytical skills, there are a few steps you can take to ensure they are a suitable candidate for your SEO needs:

1. Leverage Analytical Skills

Your former database administrator likely has strong analytical skills, which can be invaluable in analyzing your website from a technical perspective. Analyzing how your site is performing, identifying potential issues, and suggesting improvements can be crucial for making your site more search engine friendly and user-friendly.

Trial Period and Analysis

2. Conduct a Trial Period

Instead of jumping into a full-time SEO engagement right away, it's recommendable to run a trial period. This will allow you to assess what kind of analysis they provide, how they work to improve your website's user and search engine friendliness, and ensure that their methods align with your overall goals.

3. Prioritize Your SEO Needs

3.1. List Down Your SEO Needs

Make a comprehensive list of your SEO requirements. This will help you determine if they can meet 80% of your needs while leaving the remaining 20% for additional learning and improvement.

3.2. Evaluate Performance

After their trial period, evaluate how well they address your SEO needs. If they consistently address 80% of your requirements, they could be a strong candidate. However, if they struggle with a significant portion, consider additional support or training.

Experience and Maintenance

4. Consider Experience

If you want someone who can handle everything without causing you additional headaches, it's vital to assess their experience. An experienced SEO professional is more likely to handle a wide range of tasks and stay updated with the latest trends and updates in the industry.

4.1. Consistent Support

Make sure they are available for regular consultations and updates. This will be crucial if you need ongoing support and maintenance to keep your website strong and competitive in search results.

4.2. Continuous Learning

SEO trends and algorithms are constantly evolving. Ensure that the person you hire or work with is committed to staying updated with the latest changes and developments in the field. For example, they should understand what Google Penguin is, its effects on search, and how it might impact your website specifically.

Final Word: Rand Fishkin's Insights

To gain further insights, I recommend reading the article by Rand Fishkin. This resource provides valuable guidance and can offer more detailed advice tailored to your specific needs.

In conclusion, while your former database administrator can certainly contribute valuable skills to your SEO efforts, it's essential to carefully assess their capabilities, experience, and commitment to ongoing learning before making a decision.