Anecdotal evidence and recent data indicate that the SEO job market is undergoing **dramatic transformations**. This evolution isn’t just about the **skills in demand**; it’s also reshaping **hiring practices**, creating hurdles for experienced SEOs who are ready and willing to contribute. Let’s dive deeper into these trends to understand what’s really happening.
A Brief History of SEO Jobs
Twenty-five years ago, breaking into the SEO field was relatively straightforward. Many leading businesses across various sectors sought out freelancers and agencies to enhance their online presence. Initially, marketing departments didn’t fully recognize the importance of dedicated SEO roles, often relying on external specialists. However, as digital landscapes expanded, organizations began to hire **in-house SEO teams**, solidifying the significance of this expertise.
Current Trends in the SEO Job Market
A recent report from SEOJobs.com sheds light on the state of SEO jobs in 2024. This report reveals **a significant shift** in job availability and salary levels, raising questions about the future of SEO work.
This is what we learned from the report:
- SEO job openings have **declined significantly** in 2024.
- The median salary for SEO positions has **decreased**.
- Approximately **65% of SEO roles** are now in-house.
- Opportunities for remote SEO positions have **diminished**.
- SEO job titles relating to **content strategy and writing** dropped by **28%**.
- Job titles for SEO Analysts decreased by **12%**.
- Roles focused on **Technical SEO** saw a slight drop in listings.
- However, **senior-level titles** (manager, director, VP) experienced the **strongest growth**.
The report highlights a notable decline in Technical SEO positions:
“Positions in the Technical SEO and related title group represented 5.8 percent of all SEO jobs during the first quarter of 2024, falling to 5.4 percent by the end of the fourth quarter – a **7% decrease**.”
Despite this decline, Technical SEO skills remain **in high demand**:
“Demand for skills in technical SEO has grown at the **fastest rate** of any skill, rising to **75%** from **71%** in the previous quarter.”
Are AI Technologies Hurting Job Prospects for Experienced SEOs?
Keith Goode, a sharp observer of industry trends, believes that many seasoned SEOs are facing challenges in securing jobs due to the **misapplication of AI technology** in recruitment processes.
In a recent LinkedIn post, he reflects on the issue:
“I’ve seen exceptional SEOs fall through the cracks, prematurely rejected due to a lack of perceived experience or shuffled through numerous interviews, only to be ghosted by recruiters. AI is often heralded as a solution when, in fact, it’s creating more problems than it solves. Recruiters are overwhelmed with resumes, and while AI can expedite screening, it frequently misjudges candidate quality.”
The Ghosting Phenomenon in SEO Hiring
Many experienced SEOs are left waiting for responses that never come—lost in a labyrinth of automated decision-making. Brian Harnish, an industry veteran, voiced his frustrations in a post that echoed the sentiments of countless job seekers:
“In this job market, it seems like nothing matters. You can apply promptly, tailor your resume meticulously, and network extensively… yet it feels like companies offer no genuine feedback. The same form rejection letter becomes a relentless echo, while I feel invisible in a market that once cherished my expertise.”
What Does This All Mean?
Is this the reality for many SEOs? Those with extensive experience, including SEO directors from Fortune 500 companies, are also finding it increasingly tough to secure new roles.
What could be the cause? The reliance on AI? Shifts in industry focus? Or perhaps both?
Whatever the case, it’s clear that the SEO job market is at a **crossroads**, presenting both challenges and opportunities for professionals navigating this dynamic landscape.
Featured Image by Shutterstock/Ollyy
