In this episode of Search with Candour, host Jack Chambers-Ward sits down with freelance SEO consultant Ian Ferguson to discuss the delicate balance between user experience (UX) and search engine optimisation (SEO).
They delve into the importance of integrating SEO at the start of web design processes, the impact of AI on SEO, and how to create valuable content that serves both users and search engines.
The episode also touches on practical tips for improving UX, managing client expectations, and the future of SEO in an AI-driven landscape.
Follow Ian:
⭐Website: https://ferguseo.com/
⭐Ian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianjferguson/
⭐Ian on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ferguseo.com
⭐SEO TLDR Newsletter: https://seotldr.substack.com/
Ian's recommendations:
🛒How do grocery store layouts influence shopping? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=skKu1CSrKsQ
👓Microsoft Clarity - https://clarity.microsoft.com/
🫙Hotjar - https://www.hotjar.com/
🍻The User is Drunk - https://theuserisdrunk.com/
📖Ali Abdaal’s Feel Good Productivity - https://aliabdaal.com/feel-good-productivity/
Links:
🎙️The live podcast in Brighton: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/social-health-is-the-key-to-career-success-free-food-and-drinks-tickets-1556336527449?aff=oddtdtcreator
🥊Jack's MMA fight for charity: https://justgiving.com/page/jack-chambers-ward
Time stamps:
00:00 Introduction
05:00 Welcome Ian Ferguson
05:12 Ian Ferguson's Background and Expertise
06:19 The Intersection of UX and SEO
10:01 Challenges and Strategies in SEO and UX
18:00 The Future of SEO in the Age of AI
39:16 The Importance of Keyword Research in Web Design
39:43 Time Constraints and Departmental Silos in Marketing
40:05 Leveraging AI for Product Data Management
40:56 Enhancing User Experience with Interactive Guides
42:34 The Challenges of Modern SEO and UX Integration
43:43 The Shift from Content Quantity to Quality
46:18 Adapting to AI and Changing Client Needs
52:55 Optimizing Internal Search and User Navigation
55:06 The Role of Data in E-commerce Strategy
59:00 The Benefits of Content Curation and Site Clean up
01:00:33 Psychological Insights from Supermarkets to E-commerce
01:03:37 The Future of SEO and User Experience
01:05:39 Final Thoughts and Recommendations
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