How do you handle technical SEO issues on a website?
Theme: Technical SEO Role: Seo Specialist Function: Marketing
Interview Question for SEO Specialist: See sample answers, motivations & red flags for this common interview question. About SEO Specialist: Optimizes websites and content for search engine visibility. This role falls within the Marketing function of a firm. See other interview questions & further information for this role here
Sample Answer
Example response for question delving into Technical SEO with the key points that need to be covered in an effective response. Customize this to your own experience with concrete examples and evidence
- Identifying Technical SEO Issues: I start by conducting a thorough website audit to identify any technical SEO issues. This includes checking for crawl errors, broken links, duplicate content, and slow page load times
- Prioritizing Technical SEO Issues: Once I have identified the issues, I prioritize them based on their impact on SEO performance. I focus on resolving critical issues first, such as fixing crawl errors and broken links
- Resolving Crawl Errors & Broken Links: To resolve crawl errors and broken links, I analyze the website's XML sitemap and use tools like Google Search Console to identify the specific pages with issues. I then work with the development team to fix the underlying problems and ensure proper redirection
- Optimizing Page Load Times: To optimize page load times, I analyze the website's performance using tools like Google PageSpeed Insights. I identify factors that contribute to slow loading, such as large image sizes or excessive JavaScript, and work with the development team to implement optimizations
- Fixing Duplicate Content: To fix duplicate content issues, I use tools like Screaming Frog to identify duplicate pages or content. I then implement canonical tags or 301 redirects to consolidate the duplicate content and ensure search engines understand the preferred version
- Implementing Structured Data Markup: I also ensure that the website has proper structured data markup, such as schema.org tags, to help search engines understand the content better. This includes marking up key elements like product information, reviews, and events
- Monitoring & Testing: After resolving technical SEO issues, I continuously monitor the website's performance using tools like Google Analytics and Search Console. I conduct regular tests to ensure that the implemented changes have positively impacted SEO performance
- Staying Updated: Lastly, I stay updated with the latest SEO trends and algorithm changes to proactively address any emerging technical SEO issues and optimize the website accordingly
Underlying Motivations
What the Interviewer is trying to find out about you and your experiences through this question
- Technical expertise: Assessing the candidate's knowledge and skills in handling technical SEO issues on a website
- Problem-solving abilities: Evaluating the candidate's approach and strategies for resolving technical SEO issues
- Attention to detail: Determining the candidate's ability to identify and address specific technical SEO issues
- Experience & past performance: Gauging the candidate's track record in successfully handling technical SEO issues on previous websites
Potential Minefields
How to avoid some common minefields when answering this question in order to not raise any red flags
- Lack of knowledge: Not being able to provide specific examples or strategies for handling technical SEO issues
- Vague or generic answers: Providing general statements without diving into specific technical SEO issues or solutions
- Inability to prioritize: Not being able to identify and prioritize critical technical SEO issues over less significant ones
- Limited problem-solving skills: Failing to demonstrate a systematic approach to identifying and resolving technical SEO issues
- Lack of collaboration: Not mentioning the importance of working with developers, designers, or other stakeholders to address technical SEO issues
- Outdated knowledge: Not being aware of the latest trends, updates, or best practices in technical SEO
- Poor communication skills: Struggling to explain technical concepts or solutions in a clear and concise manner
- Overemphasis on tools: Relying too heavily on tools without demonstrating a deep understanding of technical SEO principles and strategies
- Inflexibility: Being resistant to adapting strategies or approaches based on changing search engine algorithms or industry trends
- Lack of curiosity: Not showing a genuine interest in continuously learning and staying updated on technical SEO advancements