Meet Josh Hiemstra, SEO & Data Lead

By Meredith Fennema

March 2, 2021

As Data Lead & Business Development Director what work will you be leading at Simpler Site?

My primary focus is to help clients drive more traffic to their website either via Search Engine Optimization (SEO) or Google Analytics. I analyze data and deploy strategies that help clients rank highly on search engines for the keywords their customers are using. I also help clients understand how many customers they’re getting, how they’re getting them and what’s their behavior on the website.

As Business Development Lead I’m trying to connect with companies that are looking for digital marketing help. I’m excited to listen to the challenges and goals businesses are thinking about, and understand how we might be able to help. I’m passionate about helping out, and believe that when we’re helping clients achieve goals it’s a win-win for everyone.

How does this position build off your previous experience?

I’ve always been drawn to data! My background includes 10+ years in the engineering field. Google and other search engines are built by engineers, so when it comes to SEO it’s natural to me seeing how engineers think and build things. 

I also earned my Six Sigma Black Belt certification, which taught me to use statistics to solve problems. I have lots of experience gathering, dissecting, and managing large volumes of data to gather strategic insights.

As you reflect on the possibilities to use SEO & data analytics to help businesses grow, what excites you most?

I believe that the right data can point you in the right direction. It’s fun to help businesses achieve their goals by cracking the codes of SEO and using Analytics to improve digital strategies. 

What are your favorite books?

$100 Startup by Chris Guillebeau
This is Marketing by Seth Godin
Start with Why by Simon Sinek
Miracle Morning Millionaires by Hale Elrod
○ All John Grisham books

What are your favorite podcasts?

○ Joe Rogan
○ Tim Ferris
○ MGO Podcast

What are some of your favorite questions to answer for clients?

○ What’s the driving force behind what’s working (and not working) with my digital marketing?
○ How do my target customers search for things on search engines?

When you’re not working, what do you most enjoy doing?

I love to be outdoors. In the past year I’ve been focusing a lot on mountain biking, which I really enjoy. Some other outdoor activities I enjoy are kayaking, golfing, and backpacking. I also like to keep up with University of Michigan sports — and, I like to grill. My wife is a vegetarian so I’m honing the art of grilling veggies!

Ready to Connect?

Call: (616) 822-3706
Email: hello@simplersite.co

About Meredith Fennema

Meredith manages web design and digital strategy services for Simpler Site. Clients across the country appreciate Meredith’s commitment to growth, generosity and kindness, alongside Simpler’s practical, make-it-happen approach. Meredith studied Human Centered Design at Kendall College of Art and Design, earned her Foundations in Design Thinking and Designing Strategy certificates from IDEO U, and has a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Communications and Political Science from Calvin University. In business and in life, Meredith believes in the power of embracing the unknown. Outside work she practices this while mountain biking, backpacking, cooking, and vegetable gardening.

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