Wage watchers: how much does an SEO specialist earn?

SEO specialist Katrijn Hendrickx, 25, from Lier, Antwerp province talks about what she earns and how she spends it

What do you do for a living?

I work as an SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) specialist for the Yellow Pages, making sure that our clients' websites pop up as high as possible in search results on Google and the like. By directing web traffic you make sure their visibility, number of visitors - and therefore sales – go up. We are recruiting by the way, if anyone’s interested.

How much do you earn?

I work four days a week and take home €1,400 plus lunch vouchers, hospital insurance and end-of-year bonus.

Do you save?

In the long term I want to leave my parents’ home and go live alone somewhere. A house is somewhat unattainable but maybe a small flat? Renting a small place and furnishing it costs money anyway…

What does the biggest part of your salary go towards?

I pay some rent and contribute towards housekeeping. I also go on holiday every now and then, so some of my money goes towards that too.

What do you gladly pay for?

Clothes, make-up, accessories. And, like I said, I love travelling. I’m always up for a weekend away or a wellness package. In short, I like a bit of pampering!

What do you resent parting with your money for?

I know this sounds weird for someone working in IT, but I won’t buy expensive gizmos. True enough, I was an early convert to the iPhone, but I still use the first one: I am take great care of it. Also, I don’t buy really expensive clothes or handbags. Imagine if they get stolen.

What would you do if you win the lottery?

I’d buy a house or a flat right away and put the rest aside for later. And I’d look after my parents: my loved ones should also benefit from my win. Having said that, I would love to win the lottery – just once! (laughs)

(ml)