Intro
Market research data from IBISWorld shows there are now more than 300,000 SEO professionals in the US, and the number is increasing by about 17 percent per year. The majority work on a hybrid basis, while 25 percent work fully remotely. This means that an effective home office with reliable internet service and appropriate hardware and software is an absolute must to operate effectively and successfully in this growing niche.
Find the best internet connection
When you work in SEO, it's vital that you have a fast and efficient internet connection. You can check to find the best internet service providers in your area and how the options stack up against one another. SEO work typically involves dealing with large data files, attending virtual meetings and other tasks that can put a strain on the average domestic internet service.
So what should you check when comparing internet service providers? Speed is the first thing that most people think of. This is certainly important, and you should look for a download speed of at least 100 Mbps to be confident of a fast and effective service. Note that the average speed provides a more accurate reflection of genuine performance than the maximum speeds, which might only be achieved during periods of low demand.
But equally important is reliable and consistent service. Take a look at the customer reviews to get a picture of this, and also to understand the quality of each provider’s customer service.
Invest in the right hardware
SEO professionals are constantly juggling with several tools, spreadsheets, browser tabs and chat windows simultaneously. Investing in the right hardware will pay for itself in the long run, as it allows the user to work better, faster and easier, resulting in higher quality work and less stress. Examples include the following:
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A dual or triple monitor setup can make a world of difference to workflow. For example, you might dedicate one screen to analytics dashboards and a second to tools like Ahrefs or SEMrush. With a triple setup, you then have a third free for email or project management tools.
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A powerful CPU with the right configuration will be able to take multitasking in its stride, allowing you to run multiple applications, keep a dozen tabs open on your website and chat to clients via a messaging service all at the same time. Ideally, this means an eighth generation processor and at least 16GB of RAM.
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Ergonomic peripherals such as a mechanical keyboard and traditional mouse can make a huge difference to both comfort and productivity. This leads us on to the next point.
Work in comfort to minimize risk of injury
The events of 2020/21 led to a rapid increase in remote working. This prompted a study by Harmony Healthcare IT, which revealed a 78 percent increase in searches related to eye strain while working at a computer and an incredible 142 percent increase in searches related to back pain while working at a computer. Clearly, remote work brings new health risks for Americans, and SEO professionals should keep this in mind when setting up their home office.
The most obvious area to consider here is your desk and chair. It is worth investing in a proper office chair that can be adjusted to provide just the right amount of lumbar support. Also consider a standing desk – these have become increasingly popular over the past couple of years as people have grown more aware of the health risks associated with sitting for prolonged periods. These can include back pain and circulation issues. A standing desk also allows you to burn more calories during work time.
Finally, consider measures to reduce eye strain. These include positioning the monitor approximately an arm’s length away and placing it in a location that is out of direct sunlight but still has plenty of natural light where possible.
