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