Insights from My SEO Job Applications: An Eye-Opener on Industry Standards
This past week has been quite revealing as I navigated the job application process for SEO positions. What I encountered was nothing short of astonishing.
As part of my routine, I typically visit prospective employers’ websites, delve into their page source, and occasionally utilize tools like Page Speed Insights. However, what I found felt more like stumbling upon a disaster zone than the polished, optimized sites I had anticipated.
Some alarming statistics stood out during my analyses:
- 22 seconds of JavaScript execution
- 35 seconds tied up on the main thread
- 9 seconds to render the largest contentful paint
- 11 seconds attributed to third-party scripts
- A staggering 13 stylesheets loaded for a single page
This list is just the beginning. It’s hard to fathom how these issues went unnoticed or unaddressed. Is this the reality many of you in the agency world contend with daily?
I can only imagine how I would express my thoughts if presented with an interview opportunity. Words like “dumpster fire” might feel too harsh, yet they completely summarize the chaotic state of some of these websites.
For context, I am not a newcomer to the field; I possess significant in-house experience and have worked closely with various development teams. I’m well-aware of the complexities and challenges within our industry, and my intention is not to oversimplify the intricacies of digital performance. However, the situations I encountered genuinely reflect a troubling trend that demands attention.
In conclusion, as I continue my search, I hope to connect with organizations that prioritize robust strategies for site optimization and performance enhancement. It’s clear there is much work to be done, and I look forward to being part of the solution.
One response to “Applying for SEO jobs has been eye-opening…”
Thank you for sharing your insights from the job application process! It’s quite revealing to see the discrepancies between industry expectations and the actual state of many organizations’ websites. Your findings resonate deeply with a significant concern in our field – the gap between theoretical SEO knowledge and practical application.
It’s worth noting that this issue often stems from a combination of factors including a lack of understanding of SEO fundamentals among stakeholders, budget constraints that prioritize short-term fixes over long-term strategies, and insufficient collaboration between teams (like developers and marketers).
Moreover, many organizations may not fully grasp the implications of poor site performance on user experience and conversion rates. This disconnect highlights an opportunity for SEO professionals to advocate for better practices and standards within companies. As you continue your search for the right opportunity, emphasizing your ability to bridge these gaps could be immensely valuable.
Perhaps consider proposing a preliminary audit as part of your interview process, which not only showcases your expertise but also illustrates your proactive approach to solving existing issues. It might just set you apart in a pool of candidates and position you as a thought leader who is ready to drive meaningful change. Good luck with your applications!