The role humanization & empathy play in SEO strategy

Director of SEO and Strategic Content at Coursera, Divya Hillier, discusses the critical role of humanization and empathy in SEO strategy. She emphasizes how understanding and integrating these elements can significantly enhance engagement and effectiveness in digital marketing. By focusing on the human aspects behind search behaviors, Divya provides insights on creating more meaningful and impactful SEO campaigns.
About the speaker

Divya Hillier

Coursera

 - Coursera

Divya is SEO Manager at Coursera

Show Notes

  • 05:30
    Evolution of SEO from tactical tricks to strategic empathy.
    The discussion highlights the shift in SEO from manipulative tactics to focusing on user intent and providing value.
  • 08:45
    Impact of Google's emphasis on intent in SEO practices.
    It was noted how Google's focus on user intent has allowed for more genuine and user-focused SEO strategies.
  • 12:20
    Challenges of integrating AI and automation with empathetic SEO.
    The conversation explores the difficulties in balancing the technical aspects of SEO with the need to maintain a human touch in content creation.
  • 15:40
    Importance of content authenticity and user trust in SEO.
    The importance of creating authentic content that resonates with users and builds trust was emphasized, impacting SEO positively.
  • 18:55
    Examples of successful empathetic SEO strategies.
    Specific examples were provided on how integrating empathy into SEO has led to successful campaigns and enhanced user engagement.

Quotes

  • "I firmly believe in educating whoever it is a little bit more about SEO and understanding where we are now and where we started and where it used to be." - Divya Hillier

  • "Now we're in a place where consumers expect a lot before they even click your website, link to your website, let alone log in or anything. They want to be seen and be heard. They want to trust you. They want to answer a specific answer to their specific question." - Divya Hillier

  • "The only helpful thing in AI overviews is being able to skim the long tail questions that they are implying might be something that somebody actually would need in the deep dive." - Divya Hillier

  • "75 million people found what they needed when they came to our website." - Divya Hillier

About the speaker

Divya Hillier

Coursera

 - Coursera

Divya is SEO Manager at Coursera

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