How Salford Business School Enhanced my Career as an SEO Specialist Keywords: Salford Business School, SEO Salford Business School played a pivotal role in shaping and advancing my career as an SEO specialist. The comprehensive curriculum and expert guidance provided by the institution equipped me with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the field of search engine optimization. Thanks to Salford Business School, I have been able to achieve remarkable success and establish myself as a reputable SEO professional. 
Image Source: University of Salford Manchester,United Kingdom
Discover How Salford Business School Helped my SEO Specialist Career Amidst the Post-Pandemic Landscape
In a world inundated with distractions, I heeded my inner voice and made a decision I’ll forever cherish.
Join me as I unveil my insider secrets!
SEO defines my identity!
SEO is my middle name! Yes, did you hear that?
Becoming a Search Engine Optimization Specialist has been a passion I’ve embraced wholeheartedly.
Allow me to recount my journey into the realm of SEO.
Introduction:
I am Chinedu Samuel, originating from Nigeria’s eastern region. My academic background includes a degree in Biochemistry from the esteemed University of Nigeria Nsukka.”
How It all started (Phase one)
The path to becoming an SEO Specialist began during my final year as a biochemistry undergraduate at university. It all began when I crafted my first ever WordPress blog website and initiated optimization efforts through blog post creation. Surprisingly, I was already implementing SEO strategies on my blog, without knowing what SEO is all about.
In retrospect, it’s quite amusing!
But here’s an interesting tidbit:
Would you believe my most significant regret? After numerous months of dedication, I ultimately shut down this WordPress blog site due to Google’s refusal to approve my Adsense account. I felt frustrated and gave up, but that was not the end.
Join me as I unveil what I refer to as “the defining stage”.
Second Phase of my SEO Specialist Journey (Covid Era):
The era of Covid brought about significant changes in my life. It commenced immediately after my completion of the National Youth Service Corp program, a mandatory requirement for all recent university graduates in Nigeria. Prior to the Covid lockdown, I was actively seeking employment. However, with the onset of the pandemic, movement became restricted, companies began downsizing, and only individuals skilled in technology, digital expertise, and healthcare remained in demand. Recognizing this shift, I resolved that it was an opportune moment to immerse myself in acquiring digital skills. With the uncertainty surrounding the duration of the Covid lockdown, I realized the potential for remote work opportunities. Leveraging my proficiency in digital tools and my fervor for online entrepreneurship, I made the deliberate choice to pursue learning digital marketing.
Embarking on a journey of self-education proved to be transformative. I eagerly enrolled in courses offered by Google Digital Academy, focusing on ‘Google digital marketing for Africa’, and supplemented my learning with additional digital marketing courses on Udemy. This marked the inception of my authentic voyage into the realm of digital marketing.
Breaking!
How I Secured my First Social Media Management Position in Banana Island Amidst the Covid Era
Amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, I found myself in the midst of a self-training phase while actively seeking employment opportunities. Fortunately, I was successful in securing a job opportunity during this period. The role required me to be physically present at a store located in Banana Island once a week. It marked my inaugural visit to Banana Island, renowned as the most affluent area in Nigeria, where billionaires call home. Despite the modest compensation of 40,000 naira for the internship, I was elated about the opportunity and thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of the job. My primary focus was on acquiring valuable work experience rather than the financial remuneration.
In the aftermath of the Covid pandemic in 2021, I secured my second job as a Digital Marketing Manager.
This position was notably more advanced, compelling me to delve deeper into the realm of SEO, as optimizing the company’s website became an integral part of my responsibilities. Engaging in another round of self-learning, I immersed myself in comprehending the intricacies of SEO. Within a month, I initiated the full SEO strategies such as: Keyword research, SEO blogs, SEO auditing, technical SEO, Onsite SEO and Back-linking for the client’s website. It was during this role that I gained exposure to the comprehensive landscape of digital marketing and made the decision to specialize in Search Engine Optimization. Subsequently, I extended my expertise to collaborate with notable organizations such as Sterling Bank, EasyWin Ltd, JAC Motors, and Sujimotos, serving as an SEO Specialist and Paid Ads Specialist before embarking on my journey abroad.
Interested in exploring my previous jobs?
Feel free to visit my Case Studies page for more details.
“Key note: In order to excel in any digital skill, it’s essential to cultivate the capacity for continuous self-learning. This is because digital skills are constantly evolving, with new trends and updates emerging regularly”
Learn more about me. Click here, About Me page
The Third Phase of my SEO Specialist Career: (My Salford Business School Journey)
I had long envisioned pursuing a master’s degree abroad, but the onset of Covid disrupted my plans and nearly led me to reconsider. Nonetheless, my unwavering dream and fervor to emerge as a leader in digital marketing compelled me to pursue a master’s program in the UK.
“Kindly read through to the conclusion to discover how I secured my initial SEO Specialist position as an international student in Manchester, UK—a valuable secret you’ll be eager to learn.”
Photo Credit: Ifeoma Osuagwu @University of Salford (April, 2024)
In March 2023, I commenced my search for postgraduate destinations. Frankly, the UK wasn’t my primary choice; Australia held that position. Similarly, Middlesex University, London, was my initial preference within the UK.
However, after meticulous research, I opted for the UK and specifically chose Salford Business School. It’s a decision I cherish and would make repeatedly.
Manchester was my city of choice due to its prominence after London and comparatively lower living costs.
I sought a city and academic institution with a robust reputation in digital and media studies, leading me to discover Salford Business School’s user-friendly website and esteemed academic standing, particularly in proximity to Media City.
Following extensive research, I applied and commenced my studies on Dec 27, 2023, as a January intake for MSc Digital Marketing.
My first day on campus was a blend of excitement and uncertainty. I left behind familiar surroundings for a foreign land where I knew no one. Amidst unfamiliar faces and an uncertain atmosphere, I captured some moments through photographs, finding solace and a sense of comfort.
Commencement of My Academic Journey (My 1st Module):
On January 12, 2024, my academic journey embarked as we commenced the first module, Digital Marketing Communications (DMC). Mr. Michael Evans assumed the role of module leader, a seasoned and impassioned senior lecturer who imparted knowledge with the warmth and guidance akin to a father-son conversation. His mentorship dispelled any lingering uncertainties and fueled my enthusiasm for the realm of eCommerce.
The module’s culmination featured an assessment that delved deep into the intricacies of eCommerce, emphasizing the pivotal role of digital marketing in bolstering eCommerce ventures. This module served as a catalyst, heightening my fervor for eCommerce—a passion I had harbored and intended to cultivate for an extended period. Subsequently, I immersed myself in LinkedIn learning, seeking to refine my expertise in eCommerce SEO optimization.
My Second Academic Module:
On March 6th, we commenced our second module titled “Search and Social Media Marketing (SSMM)”. Mirage Islam serves as the module leader, with Magdalena Marchowska-Raza contributing as one of the module lecturers.
The SSMM module evaluation was meticulously crafted to equip students for various roles within the digital marketing sphere. Initially, I experienced a sense of trepidation and confusion regarding the approach to the assessment. However, through active participation in classes and seminars, clarity gradually emerged.
Despite possessing four years of professional experience in digital marketing, Salford Business School facilitated a process of unlearning entrenched practices and adopting a global, industry-leading approach to execute Search Engine Optimization and social media marketing. Remarkably, these transformations occurred within the initial two modules. The prospect of further refinement upon completion of the program is both exciting and promising.
Credit is owed to Mirage Islam, whose role transcends that of a conventional classroom lecturer; he embodies a seasoned digital communication expert. His guidance has spurred us to cultivate our online brands diligently and consistently.
Regarding my future trajectory, I am confidently charting a course towards success, with Salford Business School serving as the catalyst for growth. Notably, prospective employers, HR professionals, and digital agencies are actively engaging with my online presence. Additionally, HR recruiters have initiated contact through LinkedIn, expressing interest in SEO positions.
Bonus!
How I got an SEO Specialist job with a digital marketing agency in Manchester
In our inaugural session of the search and social media marketing module, Mr. Mirage Islam shared details about marketing gatherings taking place in Manchester. He emphasized the importance of attending these events, connecting with industry professionals, and leveraging LinkedIn to enhance our personal brand. Promptly, I registered for Manchester Marketing Week, which occurred a fortnight later. At the event, I endeavored to network with as many attendees as possible.
During the event, I encountered an affable British individual named George. Following a series of discussions, he graciously provided me with his business card and suggested we connect further. Initially hesitant, I eventually reached out to him via WhatsApp. We arranged a meeting at a nearby coffee shop, where I presented my proposals to him. Subsequently, he expressed interest in discussing the opportunity with his SEO team. After deliberation, he extended an offer, marking the commencement of my inaugural SEO role in Manchester.
Picture Gallery
Image description: Photos with fellow marketing experts at the eCom Collab Meetup, Manchester, Mar, 2024
Image description: My first day on Campus -Jan, 2024
I and George the Director (TestConcepts Digital Agency) – Apr, 2024
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Wow, your growth is inspiring. Keep it up
Thank you so much Joy 😊, I appreciate your feedback.