What skills do SEO pros need to stay ahead in 2026?

SEO isn’t just about “ranking pages” anymore. In 2026, the best SEO practitioners look like AI-literate growth strategists—connecting user needs, machine understanding, and measurable business outcomes.

We interviewed 20+ SEO experts worldwide about the skills and trends they will be focusing on in 2026 and saw consistent themes: adapting to AI-influenced discovery, upgrading analytical skills, and expanding SEO’s remit across UX, CRO, content, and performance channels.

Want the full breakdown of the skills SEO experts are building right now? Get the free guide now.

If you’re planning your 2026 career development goals (or hiring and building SEO teams), this guide gives you a clear, credible picture of what “great” looks like in SEO skillsets next year.