I’m a 1986 Kent State University journalism major, but I’m an early retiree from that field.
Like many other consumers, I was fascinated with the emerging Internet in its 1996 toddler days. Surfing was fun and a bit addictive.
With only a partial vision, I tried to push a regional business publication employer into the Internet (even if my ideas only involved archiving stories and free banner ads for print advertisers).
When that didn’t work, I pursued website development with two firms in two years, only to be laid off in 1998 (many clients were doing their own writing).
During that time, I started tracking search engine optimization and immersed myself in the industry with my home-based firm. In 2003, I joined Fathom SEO as vice president.
I’ve grown from direct project management to becoming our corporate SEO thought leader (business development managers bring me into strategic sales calls and meetings).
With our growth, I’ve stepped aside from directing operations. I have more time to advise and mentor SEO specialists who handle more than 125 clients. I’ve written industry articles
for WebProNews, iMedia Connection, ReveNews and others. In addition, I’ve authored several guides and white papers and led our studies on how health care companies and manufacturers use SEO.
For the last two years, I’ve been speaking at national events, including Search Engine Strategies conferences in Chicago, New York City and San Jose.
I have no regrets about leaving the news world. I still get to write (just not CEO profiles or workplace diversity trends).
I really enjoy the strategy of the industry, including the benefits of online PR and using the right keywords that can make all of difference for a client.
My career path has enabled me to dive into many facets of online marketing while giving me a chance to guide clients like Little Tikes, Bissell, FedEx Custom Critical, Eaton Corp., Sauder, Cleveland Clinic and Kent State University.
This field is ever-changing. I enjoy being a part of what’s happening and making contributions along the way.
Michael Murray
Fathom SEO
Vice President
Search Engine Marketing
8200 Sweet Valley Dr., Suite 108
Valley View, Ohio 44125
p. 216.369.2220 x111
f. 216.369.2227