Jean-Yves Scauri (National SEO Lead, iProspect Australia), presented to the lecturers at the 2023 MFA Lecture the Lecturers event. Jean explored the difficulties in finding authentic information online and getting useful search results, before showcasing some emerging trends within search.
We asked Jean a few important questions about his media journey, his presentation insights and the key skills needed to succeed in his role.
What’s your role & how would you explain it to your mother?
I’m the National Head of SEO at iProspect Australia. That can mean many things depending on what day of the week you ask me about it! I used to tell my mom “I work with Google” to make it easy on myself but I’ve evolved to saying that I help build brands online organically (aka I don’t spam people with ads!)
What was your presentation about & why did you think it was relevant to share with lecturers?
My presentation investigating whether Google Search was getting worse and discussed the existential threats to Google. The rapid rise of AI technologies has accelerated growth for many brands, including those that wants a piece of the Search pie. Direct competitors like Microsoft but also indirect competitors like Amazon & TikTok have been capitalising on these technologies and rolling out updates directly threatening Google’s global dominance.
What are the top 3 takeaways of your presentation?
1) It’s becoming more difficult to find authentic, genuine & expert information online, not just on Google.
2) AI is accelerating Google’s potential fall as they struggle to keep up with the competition.
3) Many competitors & new companies are popping up to grab a share of Google’s search dominance that are important to keep an eye on
What skills do you think are most critical to your role?
Curiosity & persistence.
What are the best resources to keep up to date on the industry?
The Search Engine Land & Search Engine Journal are probably the best Search news out there, they have their own daily newsletter as well which is super handy. I also share SEO news on Linkedin and give my point of view on current developments so feel free to give me a follow there too