Interviewing Jade Hallam

Welcome to a new WTSInterview edition, where we interview brilliant SEOs in our industry and share their stories with the world! WTS members are welcome to share their story by simply filling out this form; we encourage folks from all walks of life in our industry to do so.

Introducing Jade Hallam! Jade is the Founder and Managing Director at Clever Clicks Digital. With 10+ years in SEO and digital strategy, she helps growing businesses scale through smart, data-led marketing with a strong focus on organic growth.

How did you get into SEO?

I got into SEO through a digital marketing apprenticeship straight after college. My first role focused on social media and basic website optimisation, but it was in my next job as a Digital Marketing Assistant that my brilliant manager properly introduced me to SEO, and it instantly clicked.

I loved the challenge, the data-led thinking, and the constant problem-solving. From there, I moved into a dedicated SEO role at an agency, then progressed to Senior SEO Exec at another agency. I began SEO freelancing in 2018 before launching Clever Clicks as a full-service digital agency in 2022. I haven’t looked back since!

What is your favourite SEO task?

I love the research and strategy side of SEO the most. There’s something incredibly satisfying about spotting quick-win opportunities and crafting strategic plans that drive real performance improvements, especially when those opportunities have been overlooked previously. It gives me a real buzz to turn insights into results!

What is your go-to tool or resource that you can't live without?

SEMRush is definitely my go-to for most things SEO, but I think Google Search Console is massively underrated. It’s packed with insights and opportunities, and when you know how to interpret the data, it becomes a powerful tool for prioritising efforts and driving results.

What is something you learned in SEO that made you have an 'AHA' moment?

It was probably realising how important it is to stay agile and adapt your strategy over time. It’s easy to fall into the trap of repeating tried-and-tested methods, but SEO isn’t static. What works for one client might not work for another, and the landscape is always shifting, from algorithm updates to user behaviour. Embracing change, staying curious, and testing new approaches is what keeps businesses ahead of the curve.

What is your proudest industry achievement?

There are a few, but I’m especially proud that we’ve won three awards this year: the Client Service Excellence Award, Best Boutique Digital Agency in the Midlands, and Marketing, Advertising & PR StartUp of the Year at the UK StartUp Awards. Each accolade is a reflection of the hard work, care, and dedication our team puts into every client project, and that means more than anything to me.

What advice would you give those starting out in SEO?

Don’t be afraid to take risks. Some of the most effective strategies I’ve ever deployed started as bold ideas. You won’t always know what works until you try. Everyone’s SEO journey is different, so absorb everything you can, ask questions, learn from others, and find your own path.

Give a shout out to a person of marginalised gender in the industry who inspires you and tell us why

There are so many brilliant women in SEO and digital marketing that it’s hard to choose just one. I’ve been inspired by countless incredible women throughout my career, from mentors to peers to those sharing their knowledge so generously in the community. It’s a hugely supportive space and I’m constantly learning from others.

Finally, what empowers you to be the brilliant person you are?

I grew up surrounded by strong, inspiring women. One of my grandmas was a headteacher, the other led a midwifery team, and my mum was the lead trainer for police systems at Nottinghamshire Police. Their ambition, resilience, and work ethic shaped me. I’ve always felt a drive to exceed expectations because of the example they set and the belief they had in me. That foundation continues to empower everything I do today.

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Thanks, Jade, for a truly insightful interview!

You can follow and/or connect with Jade on her Linkedin!

Check out our Interviews page for more interviews. If you've enjoyed reading this, we'd love for YOU to share your story with the world! Simply fill this form here, we welcome brilliant SEOs from all walks of life! 🙌🏽