Navigating the Digital Landscape: Rewati Khare's Evolution from Coding to SEO Leadership at Dentsu Creative

SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, is a set of strategies and practices aimed at improving a website's visibility in search engine results. By optimizing various aspects of a website, such as content, meta tags, and URL structure, SEO helps search engines understand and rank the site better for relevant keywords and phrases. Rewati Khare, Group Head of SEO at Dentsu Creative explained more about this topic while unveiling her journey from a computer applications professional to SEO Head at Dentsu Creative.

1. Rewati, could you share your journey in SEO?

Certainly! I've been a part of the Denso company for the past four years, starting with my first job at Merkel, which is a Denso subsidiary. I hold a postgraduate degree in Computer Applications and initially had a knack for coding. However, during my coding internship, I realized that I lacked the passion for it. In 2016-17, when SEO and digital marketing were emerging, I recognized the potential of SEO as a career path. Back then, SEO was relatively new and less competitive, mainly involving backlink creation and website content. This marked the beginning of my journey into the world of SEO. Over the past four years, I've had the privilege to work with global brands, helping them establish their digital presence.

2. Could you explain the concept of the digital ecosystem and your expertise in SEO within it?

Certainly. The digital ecosystem is a dynamic landscape comprising websites, social media platforms, and various digital technologies interconnected in a bustling virtual realm. Search engines serve as guides, directing users through this vast digital world. As an SEO expert, I find this ecosystem intriguing and constantly evolving. My role involves optimizing websites to ensure they're easily discoverable in search results. From keyword research to creating engaging content and earning backlinks, SEO is pivotal. It's the bridge that connects businesses to their target audiences, ensuring visibility amidst the digital noise. Adapting to trends and technologies is crucial, as social media interactions, reputation management, and local SEO have all become integral parts of this ecosystem.

3. With six years of experience in SEO, how is SEO impacting companies, and what do you foresee for its future impact?

SEO has transformed how companies operate in the digital landscape. It's revolutionized how businesses reach audiences, establish their online presence, and compete. Firstly, SEO drives organic traffic, boosting visibility and brand awareness. Companies optimize content and website structure to rank higher, attracting potential customers actively searching for their offerings. Secondly, SEO levels the playing field, enabling smaller businesses to compete effectively. Looking ahead, SEO's future impact will be significant. Emerging trends like voice search, AI, and mobile-first indexing will shape strategies. SEO will integrate with other digital marketing channels, creating holistic strategies. Overall, SEO's transformative impact on companies is undeniable, and its relevance will only grow.

In the digital ecosystem, the sum of interconnected parts is greater than any individual component; it's the seamless collaboration of websites, apps, social platforms, and technologies that forms a thriving digital universe.

4. Could you share insights about recent content updates on search engines and how content should be incorporated into SEO?

Absolutely. Search engines now prioritize delivering high-quality, relevant content that fulfills user intent. Thin content and keyword stuffing are becoming ineffective. Instead, well-researched, comprehensive, and engaging content is valued. Incorporating content into SEO involves thorough keyword research, prioritizing user experience, and ensuring mobile optimization. Visual elements like images and videos enhance engagement. Effective linking—both internal and external—is crucial, along with monitoring content performance through data analysis. Staying updated with content changes is vital for successful SEO campaigns.

5. What are your favorite SEO tools, and how do you use them?

Among the tools I use, Google's proprietary tools are invaluable. Additionally, I find Screaming Frog, SEMRush, and SimilarWeb particularly useful. These tools aid in tasks like site audits, keyword research, and competitor analysis, providing crucial insights for effective SEO strategies.

6. Can keywords with low search volume still be used effectively in SEO?

Certainly. SEO isn't solely about high search volume keywords. Low search volume keywords can be valuable, provided you approach them creatively. While they may not attract massive traffic, they can cater to specific niches and audiences. Targeting the right intent and audience matters more than sheer search volume. By focusing on quality content, relevance, and long-term strategies, low-search volume keywords can still drive valuable traffic.

7. Could you briefly describe your DreamStack in SEO?

Certainly. My DreamStack in SEO involves the synergy of three teams: the technical development team, the SEO team, and the content team. Through collaboration, these teams brainstorm and implement optimization strategies. The SEO team provides optimization solutions, the technical team puts them into practice, and the content team creates and displays engaging content. This synergy ensures effective optimization with optimal results and minimal effort.

No matter how niche or mainstream your market is, great content remains a significant focus for SEO.