Can you explain what SEO means and why it’s important for businesses?

What The Interviewer Really Wants To Hear:

They’re looking for you to demonstrate your understanding of SEO and its business impact. You should explain that SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, is the practice of improving a website’s visibility in search engine results to attract organic traffic. Key highlighted areas include technical SEO, on-page optimization, and link building. They also want you go beyond “best practice” and understand how it impacts businesses bottom line.


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Tips To Answer This Interview Question Successfully

Highlight Why SEO Matters for Businesses:

Example:

For businesses, SEO is critical because it helps them be found by people who are actively searching for the products or services they offer. This is especially important because organic search traffic tends to be more qualified—these are users who are already interested and ready to engage, making them more likely to convert into customers. Unlike paid ads, which stop bringing in traffic once you stop paying, SEO has long-term value and can continue to generate traffic over time without ongoing costs.

Connect SEO to Business Goals:

Illustrate how SEO supports broader business objectives. Companies care about how SEO can impact their bottom line, so showing an understanding of this connection will help you stand out.

Example:

When done well, SEO can significantly impact a business’s revenue. It’s not just about ranking for keywords but about connecting with the right audience at the right time in their buyer’s journey. Whether it’s attracting new leads or increasing sales, SEO aligns with larger business goals like growth, brand awareness, and customer acquisition.

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