ASO Specialist

An ASO (App Store Optimization) Specialist is responsible for optimizing game visibility in digital stores. They possess a detailed understanding of the algorithms and ranking systems used by platforms such as the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Their primary goal is to increase the organic visibility of the game, attract more users and ultimately improve the overall performance of the game.

 

An ASO Specialist conducts extensive keyword research to identify relevant and frequently searched terms that users are likely to use when searching for a game. Thez optimize various elements of the game’s store page, including the title, description, screenshots and app icon, ensuring they are compelling and accurately represent the game’s unique features. They also analyze user reviews and ratings, respond to feedback and implement strategies to improve user satisfaction and retention. In addition, they keep up with the latest trends and best practices in ASO, constantly monitor game performance metrics and adjust things based on data to maximize visibility and conversion rates.

Tools

App Annie

Sensor Tower

Mobile Action

Google Play Console

Apple App Store Connect

Keyword Tool

ASOdesk

Search Ads 360

Google Analytics

COLLABORATION WITH OTHER TEAMS:

An ASO Specialist collaborates with various positions in the gaming industry to ensure a cohesive and successful marketing strategy. They work closely with developers and the Product Manager to understand unique features and key things that will attract players. This collaboration helps an ASO Specialist accurately represent the game’s value on the store page and optimize its visibility accordingly. Also, they communicate with the game’s Marketing team to align ASO efforts with broader marketing campaigns and initiatives, ensuring consistent messaging and branding across channels.

 

An ASO Specialist communicates with the Customer Acquisition team to analyze and optimize customer acquisition campaigns. By sharing insights into keyword performance, user views and conversion rates, they help the Customer Acquisition team refine their targeting and messaging strategies. In addition, they collaborate with the Analytics team to collect data on user behavior and performance metrics and use this information for store page optimization and overall data-driven ASO strategy. An ASO Specialist also works closely with the Customer Support team to monitor customer feedback and reviews, quickly resolving any issues and increasing customer satisfaction.

Skills

Depending on seniority, this position is expected to be able to master, do and deliver the following:

Hard skills

  • Data analysis
    • Analyzes keyword performance, user behavior, conversion rates and store metrics, works with large datasets.
  • Keyword research
    • Identifies relevant and frequent search terms using specialized tools and techniques to research, evaluate and select the most effective keywords.
  • Digital store optimization techniques
    • Has a detailed understanding of digital store optimization techniques, ranking algorithms and guidelines.

Soft skills

  • Communication skills
    • Communicates ideas, insights and recommendations clearly and concisely, articulates the importance of ASO strategies, discusses performance metrics.
  • Adaptability
    • Quickly adapts to new trends, algorithms and guidelines, adjusts strategies according to user behavior and changes in the market.
  • Creativity
    • Thinks creatively to create catchy titles, write enticing game descriptions and design eye-catching screenshots and app icons.

Seniority

Depending on seniority, this position is expected to be able to master, do and deliver the following:

Junior

  • Conducts keyword research using tools and techniques to identify relevant and frequent search terms for game page optimization in the digital store.
  • Optimizes various page elements, follows best practices, includes targeted keywords and ensures that elements effectively communicate the game’s unique features.
  • Analyzes digital store metrics and performance data, tracks key metrics such as downloads, conversion rates and user engagement, and derives insights.
  • Is informed about the latest trends and updates in the optimization of digital stores, actively learns and self-develops, is up to date with relevant resources.

Medior

  • Develops comprehensive ASO strategies based on data analysis, industry trends and competitor research, creates and executes optimization plans.
  • Identifies key competitors, analyzes their presence in digital stores, how they target keywords and what their ranking strategies are.
  • Conducts A/B testing, experiments to optimize the performance of the game page in the store and tests different variations of elements in the digital store.
  • Has excellent collaboration skills, conveys insights, recommendations and performance updates, provides guidance and support to juniors, encourages collaboration.

Senior

  • Leads the development and implementation of comprehensive ASO strategies, directs the team, sets clear goals, defines KPIs and creates optimization roadmaps.
  • Thoroughly analyzes digital store metrics, user behavior patterns and performance data to derive insights, uses advanced analytical tools and techniques.
  • Plays a key role in the development and mentoring of juniors and mediors, provides guidance and support, encourages the exchange of knowledge.
  • Presents strategies, performance reports and insights to senior management and the Marketing team, advocates for best practices, aligns strategies with business goals.
ASO SPECIALIST // MARKETING //
ASO SPECIALIST // MARKETING //

EDUCATION:

If you are interested in a career in marketing within the gaming industry, a degree in marketing, communications, or business with a focus on digital media and entertainment could benefit you. Look for educational programs that cover topics such as digital marketing strategies, social media marketing, branding, market research, and player behavior. Understanding the unique aspects of the video game market, including player demographics, trends and preferences, is critical to developing effective marketing campaigns. Courses that offer hands-on experience with digital marketing tools, analytics platforms and campaign management software will give you practical skills relevant to marketing roles in the industry.

 

In addition to formal education, gaining practical experience through internships or entry positions, especially in the field of video games or entertainment, can be very valuable to you. Look for opportunities to work with companies to gain industry insight and build a portfolio of marketing campaigns and projects. Networking with industry professionals, and attending events and conferences will also help you stay informed about industry trends and developments. Showing creativity, analytical skills and a passion for gaming in your approach to marketing will set you apart in this field.

Resources

Books

  • “App Store Optimization” – Johannes von Cramon, Moritz Daan
  • “App Store Bible: The Guide to App Store Optimization” – Kyle Yoon
  • “Mobile App Marketing and Monetization” – Alex Genadinik
  • “App Empire: Make Money, Have a Life, and Let Technology Work for You” – Chad Mureta
  • “Growth Hacker Marketing” – Ryan Holiday

Individuals

  • Thomas Petit (@thomasbcn)
  • Moritz Daan (@MoritzDaan)
  • Gabe Kwakyi (@gabekwakyi) 
  • Peggy Anne Salz (@peggyanne) 
  • Nancy Hua (@nancyhassassin)

What does the interview for this position look like?​

News

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ASO SPECIALIST // MARKETING //
ASO SPECIALIST // MARKETING //