Kwentong SEO Freelancer - Story #2 11 Years of Waiting; A Lifetime of Learning

As Gab and Gelo reflect on the listener’s experiences, they highlight key lessons for anyone looking to change careers or start fresh. Whether it's the value of community, the importance of mentorship, or the need for continuous learning, this episode is packed with actionable insights for aspiring freelancers and digital marketers. If you’re ready to overcome obstacles and take the first step towards your own success, this episode will inspire you to embrace new opportunities and keep growing—no matter where you’re starting from.

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Key Takeaways

The listener's journey shows that personal responsibilities, like caring for family, can delay career plans, but it’s never too late to pivot, especially with the rise of online freelancing after COVID.
Whether you're a beginner in SEO or switching careers, having a growth mindset is key. Approach every opportunity with a willingness to learn, and keep refining your skills to stay ahead of the competition.
Joining groups like SEO communities can be a game-changer. They provide support, insights, and practical advice that help you apply what you’re learning, building a portfolio and refining your skills.
Starting a new career, especially in a competitive field like SEO, will come with rejection. Don’t let it stop you. Many successful people faced numerous rejections before finding success, and age is no barrier to jumping into new fields.
Being proactive about learning (like through YouTube or podcasts) and applying what you’ve learned is crucial. It's not just about consuming information, but also about testing, adapting, and continuously growing.

It's crucial to apply what you learn. Self-study will only take you so far; you need to take action and gain real-world experience to truly grow and improve.
A positive mindset is essential for success. With the right mindset, you can push through difficulties and see opportunities in challenges, even when things get tough.
Rejection is part of the journey, especially in a new field like SEO. Resilience is key—keep going, and success will follow. Your worth isn’t determined by setbacks.
Being part of a community and finding a mentor can fast-track your career growth. These connections provide valuable resources, support, and learning opportunities that are essential for staying up-to-date in a rapidly evolving field like SEO.
It doesn’t matter when you start—what matters is your persistence. Keep learning, applying, and adapting. Age or lack of experience isn’t a barrier; determination and continuous improvement are what lead to success.

Background of the Listener

The listener's story begins with a long period of unemployment. After graduating, they faced unexpected challenges. Their family responsibilities took over, leading to years without a formal job.

Living in a province limited job opportunities. Many available jobs were far away, making it hard to accept them. This situation created a sense of boredom and frustration.

Yet, despite these challenges, the listener remained hopeful. They sought ways to improve their situation and find work. Their journey is a testament to perseverance.

Challenges Faced During Unemployment

Unemployment for so long can be mentally draining. The listener experienced feelings of worthlessness and boredom. Each day felt repetitive and unproductive.

They applied for jobs but faced rejections. The lack of responses made it difficult to stay motivated. This cycle of applying and waiting took a toll on their mental health.

Family responsibilities added to their stress. Taking care of loved ones left little time for personal growth. The listener felt stuck, unsure of how to move forward.

Discovering Online Opportunities

In November 2021, everything changed. The listener stumbled upon online job opportunities through YouTube. They discovered data annotation work, which was a great start.

Working with Appen allowed them to earn some money. Although it was not much, it felt like a step in the right direction. However, as more people joined the platform, tasks became scarce.

Despite this setback, the listener did not give up. They continued searching for other online opportunities, eager to learn and grow.

Initial Steps into Freelancing

The listener enrolled in a freelancing course in 2022. This course covered various topics like social media marketing, copywriting, and SEO. They were intrigued by SEO, even without prior knowledge.

After completing the basic course, they took a more in-depth SEO course. They learned about different aspects of SEO, such as on-page and technical SEO. This new knowledge opened doors to new possibilities.

Feeling overwhelmed is common when starting something new. The listener found themselves confused by the many SEO techniques. However, they were determined to keep going.

Diving Deeper into SEO Education

Joining the SEO Tutorials Philippines group was a game-changer. The listener connected with others who shared their passion for SEO. This community provided valuable insights and support.

Encouraged by their peers, the listener decided to create a website. This hands-on practice helped solidify their learning. They began to build a portfolio showcasing their skills.

As they continued their education, they felt more confident. They realized that understanding the broader picture of SEO was vital. This knowledge would be essential when applying for jobs.

Joining the SEO Community

Becoming part of the SEO community is vital for anyone looking to succeed in this field. It provides support, resources, and networking opportunities. Engaging with others can help you learn faster and stay motivated.

Many online groups and forums offer a space to ask questions and share experiences. Joining these communities can lead to valuable connections. You might even find mentors who can guide you in your SEO journey.

Finding the Right Community

When joining an SEO community, consider what you want to achieve. Look for groups that align with your goals. Some may focus on beginners, while others cater to advanced users.

Search for Facebook groups or online forums dedicated to SEO.
Follow SEO experts on social media for insights and tips.
Attend webinars and workshops to expand your knowledge.

Being active in these spaces can help you stay updated on industry trends. It also allows you to connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion.

The Application Process

Once you feel confident in your SEO skills, it's time to apply for jobs. The application process can be daunting, but preparation is key. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your SEO knowledge and experience.

Many companies look for specific skills. Make sure to showcase your understanding of keywords, link building, and analytics. Mention any projects or websites you have worked on, even if they are personal.

Crafting Your Resume

Your resume should reflect your journey and growth in SEO. Start with a strong summary that outlines your skills. Follow this with your education and relevant courses.

Include any certifications you have earned.
List any freelance projects or internships.
Highlight your contributions to the SEO community.

A well-crafted resume can make a significant difference. It shows potential employers that you are serious about your career in SEO.

From Internship to Employment

Internships are an excellent way to gain practical experience. They allow you to apply what you have learned and build your portfolio. Many successful SEO professionals started as interns.

Look for internships that give you hands-on experience. Working with real clients can provide insights that courses may not cover. It also allows you to network with industry professionals.

Making the Most of Your Internship

During your internship, be proactive. Ask questions and seek feedback. This is your chance to learn from those with more experience.

Take notes on what works and what doesn't.
Get involved in team projects to showcase your skills.
Build relationships with your colleagues for future opportunities.

Internships can sometimes lead to full-time positions. Show your dedication and willingness to learn, and you may find yourself with a job offer.

The Importance of Continuous Learning

SEO is always changing. New trends and algorithms are constantly emerging. To stay relevant, you must commit to continuous learning.

Read blogs, listen to podcasts, and watch webinars to keep up. Consider enrolling in advanced courses to deepen your understanding.

Setting Learning Goals

Establish clear learning goals to guide your education. Decide what areas of SEO you want to improve. Focus on specific skills like content creation, technical SEO, or analytics.

Set aside time each week for learning.
Join online courses or workshops to gain new skills.
Engage with the community for shared learning experiences.

By prioritizing continuous education, you ensure your skills remain sharp and relevant in the ever-evolving field of SEO.

Mindset Shifts for Success

A positive mindset is crucial for success in SEO. Embrace challenges as opportunities to learn. Shift your focus from fear of failure to excitement about growth.

Believe in your ability to adapt and improve. This mindset will help you tackle obstacles with confidence.

Overcoming Self-Doubt

Self-doubt can hinder progress. Remember that everyone starts somewhere. Focus on your achievements, no matter how small.

Keep a journal of your successes to remind yourself of your growth.
Surround yourself with supportive people who encourage you.
Practice positive affirmations to boost your confidence.

By overcoming self-doubt, you open yourself to new opportunities and experiences in your SEO journey.

Resilience in the Face of Rejection

Rejection is a part of the job search process. It can be discouraging, but resilience is key. Learn to view rejection as a stepping stone rather than a setback.

Each rejection is an opportunity to improve. Seek feedback on your applications and interviews. Use this information to refine your approach and grow.

Building Resilience

Resilience allows you to bounce back from challenges. Cultivate this trait by focusing on the positives. Celebrate your efforts, not just the outcomes.

Develop a support system to help you through tough times.
Engage in activities that boost your mood and motivation.
Remind yourself of your long-term goals and the progress you've made.

With resilience, you can navigate the ups and downs of your SEO career. Keep pushing forward, and success will follow.

Finding Mentorship and Community Support

Finding the right mentorship and community is crucial for anyone starting in SEO. It can help you grow your skills and gain confidence. A supportive community can provide guidance and valuable resources.

Start by looking for online groups dedicated to SEO. Platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn have many active communities. Engaging in these spaces can lead to connections with experienced professionals.

Mentorship can come in various forms. Some may offer one-on-one coaching, while others provide group sessions. Seek out individuals who have the experience and knowledge you wish to gain.

How to Find a Mentor

Finding a mentor may seem challenging, but it’s possible. Here are some steps to help you along the way:

Join SEO Communities: Participate in forums and social media groups.
Attend Webinars and Workshops: Look for events that focus on SEO. You might meet potential mentors there.
Network Actively: Connect with people in the industry. Ask questions and show genuine interest in their work.
Reach Out Directly: If you admire someone's work, send them a message. Introduce yourself and express your desire to learn.

Remember, mentorship is a two-way street. Be ready to listen, learn, and take action based on the guidance you receive.

The Benefits of Community Support

Being part of a community offers many advantages:

Shared Knowledge: Learn from others' experiences and mistakes.
Accountability: Engage with peers who can motivate you to stay on track.
Opportunities: Discover job openings, internships, or freelance gigs through your network.

Community support can make a significant difference in your SEO journey. It fosters growth and encourages you to keep pushing forward.

Key Takeaways from the Listener's Journey

The listener's journey is full of valuable lessons. Here are the key takeaways that anyone can apply:

Embrace Self-Learning

Self-education is vital. The listener utilized online resources like YouTube and courses to learn SEO. Taking the initiative to learn on your own can lead to great opportunities.

Persistence is Key

Facing challenges is part of the journey. The listener experienced many setbacks but kept pushing forward. Persistence can help you overcome obstacles and reach your goals.

Join a Community

Finding a supportive community can provide encouragement and resources. The listener joined groups that helped them learn and grow. Engaging with others can enhance your learning experience.

Seek Mentorship

Having a mentor can guide you in your career. The listener found mentors who helped them navigate the SEO landscape. Don’t hesitate to seek out experienced individuals who can share their insights.

Take Action

Knowledge is important, but action is essential. The listener applied what they learned by working on real projects. Taking steps toward your goals will help you grow and succeed.

Encouraging Others to Share Their Stories

Everyone has a unique journey. Sharing your story can inspire others. It helps create a sense of community and encourages more people to pursue their dreams.

Encourage friends or family members who have faced challenges to share their experiences. Their stories may motivate others who feel stuck or uncertain about their paths.

Consider starting a blog, podcast, or even social media posts to share your journey. Be open about your struggles and successes. Your story might just be the spark someone else needs to take action.

Ways to Share Your Story

Write a Blog Post: Share your experiences and lessons learned.
Create a Video: Record yourself discussing your journey.
Participate in Podcasts: Join discussions where you can share your insights.

By sharing your story, you contribute to a culture of support and growth. It’s a way to give back to the community that helped you.

Quotable Quotes

The right mindset is key to overcoming obstacles. Growth requires persistence, even when it feels difficult. - Gab
Curiosity is the key. Even if you fail while trying new things, it's still a valuable learning experience. - Gelo
There are endless opportunities online. You just have to explore what works for you and take action immediately. - Gab
Don't let rejection get to you. Resilience is what will carry you through, especially when you're just starting out. - Gab
In a competitive field like SEO, your unique edge comes from a mindset of constant learning. When you approach every opportunity with a willingness to grow, you'll always have an advantage over your competitors. - Gelo
Be like a sponge—absorb as much knowledge as you can. But remember, learning is just the first step. Apply what you learn, filter out what doesn’t help, and keep refining your path. - Gelo
Success isn’t about age or background; it’s about your determination to keep learning and pushing forward, no matter what challenges come your way. - Gelo

What's Next

As you reflect on the journey shared in this episode, keep in mind that it’s never too late to pivot and make a change. Stepping into SEO, switching careers, or leveling up in your current field all come with their own challenges, but the key is clear—growth happens when you maintain the right mindset and stay determined. Seize opportunities to learn, tap into communities that support your goals, and view setbacks as stepping stones toward success.

So, what’s next for you? Are you ready to push through challenges and take the necessary action? Stay committed to your growth, continuously refine your skills, and keep moving forward. If you found value in today’s episode, don’t miss the next one, where we’ll explore even more actionable insights and strategies to help you on your journey. Keep learning, keep evolving, and above all, keep advancing toward your goals.

Transcript Summary

00:00 - 01:11

Gab: Welcomes listeners to a new episode of SEO Kwentuhan, where they dive into the second part of the ongoing series, "Kwentong SEO Freelancer." This episode is titled "11 Years of Waiting, a Lifetime of Learning," which sparks curiosity about the long journey the listener (who shares their story in this episode) has gone through.

Gelo: Adds a warm New Year’s greeting, acknowledging the time they took off for the holidays, mentioning how December is family time, but they’re glad to be back recording for eager listeners.

01:12 - 03:02

Gab: Reads out the listener’s story, emphasizing how their journey started after a period of unemployment. The listener shares a pivotal moment after graduation, when they took care of their sick parent. This personal responsibility led them to delay job applications due to the distance of job opportunities and the lack of nearby work options.

The listener, while in the province, decided to explore online opportunities and started watching YouTube videos on how to earn money online. They tried a data annotation job where they would box cars in images. Unfortunately, despite earning some income, the listener faced a major challenge as many others were stealing tasks, limiting their opportunities.

03:02 - 05:33

Gab: Continues the listener’s story, noting that in 2022, they decided to enroll in a freelancing course. The course covered various basic niches like social media marketing, copywriting, and SEO. The listener was particularly intrigued by SEO, which they had no prior knowledge of but saw potential in. The course led them to enroll in a more in-depth SEO program, learning essential topics like on-page SEO, technical SEO, and link building.

Gelo: Highlights the common feeling of being overwhelmed when first encountering SEO, noting how many aspects of it come into play, which can confuse beginners.

Gab: Reflects on how SEO requires a broad understanding, even if someone is working on one specific aspect, and echoes advice from a previous interview that it’s crucial to know the "general view" of SEO to apply it effectively.

05:34 - 06:34

Gab: Shares how the listener’s journey continued by joining the SEO Tutorials Philippines community, founded by Miss Angeline. This group became a crucial learning resource, and the listener received valuable advice that motivated them to create a website for practice. This hands-on project allowed them to apply what they learned and build a portfolio.

Gelo: Comments on how joining such groups is a common starting point for many in the SEO field, noting the importance of community support in the early stages. The community helps people gain insights and refine their skills.

06:34 - 07:16

Gab: Shares the exciting news that, by 2024, the listener was offered an internship by their mentor, which they eagerly accepted. The internship came with a small allowance, and soon after, the listener was offered a full-time position, transitioning from internship to employment.

Gelo: Expresses admiration for the mentor's generosity, particularly for offering a paid internship, which is often rare in many industries.

Gab: Emphasizes how life-changing this moment was for the listener, who went from being unemployed to being employed in a field they were passionate about. The listener’s story ends with a humorous note about aging due to the stress of SEO work.

07:16 - 09:28

Gab: Reflects on the challenges the listener faced during the 11 years of unemployment, particularly the responsibility of taking care of their sick mother and retired father. They point out that the listener's decision to take care of family first is understandable, though it led to delays in their career. Gab also acknowledges the growth of online freelance opportunities post-COVID, which has made remote work more accessible.

Gelo: Wonders whether the listener had siblings and contemplates how this could have affected their situation. Gelo shares a personal reflection, noting that he too started studying SEO in his 30s, and this part of the listener’s story resonates with him deeply.

09:30 - 09:53

Gab: Introduces the segment where they will analyze the key takeaways from the listener’s story and offer advice to those who are in a similar situation, especially those who’ve been out of the workforce for a long time and are seeking new opportunities.

Gelo: Agrees and prepares to dive into the discussion on how to turn challenges into opportunities.

10:15 - 11:31

Gab: Reflects on how many people are missing out on opportunities despite being at home. He points to examples like the "Malupiton" (people without jobs) who are using their creativity to make money by entertaining others through videos. Gab emphasizes that there are endless opportunities online—whether in crypto, social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube, or other avenues that allow individuals to earn.

He advises that, unlike the previous listener who had a valid reason for being unemployed, there’s no reason to miss out on potential income today. With so many online opportunities, it’s important for people to explore what works for them. Gab also shares his personal philosophy, urging people to take immediate action after graduation to implement what they've learned, using their skills and knowledge without delay.

11:32 - 12:31

Gelo: Empathizes with the difficulties of transitioning from graduation into the workforce. He compares it to walking into a battle, where some people are fortunate and land great jobs quickly, while others struggle. Gelo points out the randomness and luck involved in finding success, especially in the early stages of one's career. He also reflects on how internships or on-the-job training (OJT) can sometimes offer a smooth transition into full-time work, which isn’t the case for everyone.

Gab: Joins in and shares how, after graduating, his father advised him to rest for three months before diving into work, offering him a small amount of pocket money to support his early job search. He recounts how difficult it can be to find opportunities but stresses the importance of getting started right away, just like he did.

12:46 - 13:49

Gelo: Acknowledges the mindset of being unemployed or a “tambay” (idle person) and offers advice on how to turn this period into something productive. He encourages people to stay curious and explore learning opportunities. Gelo underscores the importance of finding decent YouTube channels or other learning resources, noting that information is widely accessible in today’s digital age. He believes that curiosity is the key, and even if you fail in trying new things, it’s still a valuable learning experience.

Gab and Gelo both discuss how having a family changes priorities, suggesting that responsibilities like caring for children or a spouse can affect career decisions. Still, they stress the point that there’s always time and opportunity for those willing to seek it out.

13:49 - 16:33

Gelo: Elaborates on the power of self-study, especially in times of unemployment. Reflecting on his own journey, Gelo shares how, during the pandemic, he spent a lot of time on YouTube and podcasts to learn about SEO and other skills. He emphasizes that the willingness to learn is crucial in any self-education journey. Gelo compares learning to starting a fire, where you need certain “ingredients” (such as motivation and curiosity) for it to catch. He believes that many people may not pursue opportunities because they lack the drive to learn.

He also discusses the importance of understanding the "why" behind learning new skills, whether it's for a career change or personal growth. Gelo points out how some people, like virtual assistants (VAs), can earn substantial amounts of money, but achieving that requires the initial step of getting started and learning.

16:33 - 18:49

Gelo: Continues, emphasizing that self-study alone isn’t enough; one must also apply what they learn. He shares his personal experience of studying for long hours during the pandemic, and how he eventually applied the knowledge he gained, which was a key factor in his growth. Gelo praises the listener (the story’s main subject) for pushing themselves to step outside their comfort zone by pursuing an internship despite lacking prior experience. He highlights how the listener's eagerness to learn and apply new skills was likely what impressed the mentor who took them on.

He stresses that even if someone feels they don’t have direct experience, showing the willingness to learn and apply new concepts can open doors to opportunities. He also warns against the complacency that can come from feeling like one knows everything, which can stifle growth.

18:49 - 19:58

Gab: Reflects on how important self-motivation and determination are in achieving success. He agrees with Gelo's earlier point that self-study and determination are crucial, noting that many people fail not because they aren’t given opportunities, but because they lack the drive to continue learning and improving. Gab explains that even if people are given courses or resources, they may not succeed if they aren’t genuinely motivated to put in the effort and time required for self-improvement.

He further emphasizes that the right mindset is key to overcoming obstacles. Gab reflects on his personal experience with family and friends who have asked him for advice on becoming a freelancer or learning SEO but were deterred by a lack of confidence or time. Gab believes that overcoming these blockers starts with a change in mindset—understanding that growth requires persistence, even when it feels difficult.

19:58 - 20:01

Gab: Concludes by emphasizing the importance of having the right mindset when learning new skills or pursuing a career. He suggests that without a proper mindset, it’s easy to get stuck in the belief that it’s too hard or that there isn’t enough time. This negative thinking can prevent individuals from taking the necessary steps toward growth and success. Gab and Gelo both agree that developing a strong, positive mindset is essential to overcoming the barriers that often prevent people from pursuing their goals.

20:01 - 21:46

Gelo: Discusses the importance of having a clear and strong mindset when shifting careers, especially in a competitive field like SEO. He explains that the key to standing out—especially when you lack experience or a degree—is to focus on your unique edge. Gelo emphasizes the need to adopt a mindset where you approach every opportunity with a willingness to learn, grow, and absorb as much knowledge as possible. He shares his personal experience of applying for SEO positions not just to pass but to actively learn the craft. He notes that his mindset was always to have an edge over competitors by continuously learning, whether it's SEO, interview techniques, or how to present oneself.

Gelo’s motivation is driven by his responsibility to his family—his wife, son, and mother—which fuels his determination. This sense of purpose makes him feel a fire within to succeed. He also acknowledges that many people want to earn but are reluctant to put in the hard work of self-learning, which is why podcasts like this are crucial in guiding people toward the right mindset.

21:46 - 23:14

Gelo: Stresses the importance of being like a sponge when it comes to learning new things. However, he also emphasizes that it’s important to filter and organize the information you receive. Learning is crucial, but application is equally important. He encourages listeners to be mindful of absorbing what is useful and applicable, discarding what doesn’t serve their goals. Gelo advises against overloading oneself with too much information without taking action. By doing so, individuals can avoid confusion and gain a clearer path toward success.

He also reinforces that there are many free resources available for people who want to learn, and it’s vital to take advantage of them. The idea is to keep learning and refining your knowledge, especially in the fast-paced world of SEO and digital marketing.

23:32 - 25:48

Gab: Shares an important mindset lesson about handling rejection. He believes that one of the most important things to remember when you're starting out—especially in a new field like SEO—is not to let rejection dictate your worth. He uses examples of famous personalities like Colonel Sanders (KFC), Steve Jobs, Elon Musk, and Jack Ma, all of whom faced multiple rejections before they succeeded. Gab emphasizes that rejection is part of the journey, and those who have the resilience to continue despite setbacks will eventually succeed.

Gab also encourages those starting their career later in life, or shifting careers, to not let age or experience gaps hold them back. He mentions that digital marketing is a field with constantly evolving opportunities, and that it’s not about when you start, but about your ability to adapt and learn. He gives kudos to people who, despite being older or coming from completely different careers, are diving into digital marketing and SEO and actively studying through various courses and implementing what they’ve learned.

27:01 - 29:37

Gab: Talks about the significant role that mentorship and being part of a community can play in advancing one's career. He mentions the SEO community specifically, noting that by joining a community, individuals can gain access to valuable learning resources, courses, and insights. Gab shares how the community provides constant learning opportunities, which is critical to staying up-to-date in the fast-moving SEO industry. He points out that there are always new things to teach, which helps keep the community fresh and evolving.

He also gives practical advice for finding mentors, suggesting people search for SEO tutorials, courses, and strategies on platforms like Facebook and other social media. He recommends following experienced professionals who have been in the industry long enough to understand its complexities.

Gelo: Builds on this idea, encouraging listeners to filter the information they receive and apply what works for them. He acknowledges that the information shared in these communities can be overwhelming, but that’s where the true value lies—being able to test, adapt, and incorporate what resonates with your approach. Gelo mentions his own communities, such as SEO Tutorial Philippines, SEO Workout, and Local SEO, where different types of knowledge are shared, and people come together to help each other grow.

29:39 - 30:23

Gelo: Closes by reminding listeners about the importance of practice and perseverance. He relates the story of how he started his SEO journey when he was only 13 years old and how, despite being in a different industry initially, his drive to learn and improve helped him transition. Gelo advises that no matter what your age or background is, determination is key. You need to be willing to push through challenges and continue learning, even when things seem tough.

Both speakers end the episode with a final message of encouragement, underscoring that age and experience are not barriers to success in digital marketing. They remind listeners that success is not about the age you start, but about the effort and willingness to keep learning and growing.

Kwentong SEO Freelancer Story #2 - 11 Years of Waiting; A Lifetime of Learning