If making your web presence more visible is a crucial part of your business strategy, hiring a dedicated SEO expert may just be the fitting step to take. This article is here to help you determine the best places to find these professionals. From top-notch freelancing platforms, digital marketing agencies to global SEO companies, you’ll learn where you can locate the best dedicated SEO expert suitable for your business needs.
The Role of a Dedicated SEO Expert
Getting acquainted with the role of a dedicated SEO expert is crucial for your business journey. These professionals are focused on improving the visibility of your website in search engine results, helping your business gain more exposure, drive traffic, and ultimately win more customers.
Roles and responsibilities of an SEO Expert
An SEO expert wears many hats. They are responsible for reviewing and implementing changes to your website as well as analysing its performance through key metrics. This includes performing keyword research, understanding SEO copywriting, and controlling the crawlability of your webpages. They may also be expected to conduct competitor analysis and stay on top of SEO trends to make sure that your site maintains its top ranking.
The importance of a dedicated SEO Expert to your business
Having a dedicated SEO expert in your team is extremely beneficial. An experienced SEO professional can help increase your digital visibility and bring more organic traffic to your site. Given their understanding of what search engines and users prefer, they can influence the performance of your website in a way that aligns with your business targets.
Skills to look for in an SEO expert
When looking to hire an SEO expert, you’ll want someone who is strategically minded and has a strong understanding of all the three SEO levels; technical (site structure), on-page (use of keywords), and off-page SEO (link building). Proficiency in web analytics, a keen eye detail, and excellent communication skills are equally important.
Factors to Consider when Hiring an SEO Expert
When seeking to add an SEO expert to your team, you should not rush. Various factors like their experience, reputation, and your budget should influence your decision.
Experience and expertise
In the ever-changing world of SEO, experience is vital. An experienced SEO expert will know the intricacies of search algorithms and they will have had the chance to see what works and what doesn’t.
Understanding of your business and industry
Your SEO expert should have a deep understanding of your business and industry. They should be able to identify relevant keywords and concepts that will attract your target audience.
Reputation and reviews
Before hiring, ensure you check the SEO expert’s reputation and reviews. Past clients’ feedback can reveal a lot about their professionalism, reliability, and competency.
Budget considerations
Finally, consider your budget. While you might be tempted to go for the cheapest offer, remember that in SEO, you usually get what you pay for. Aim for affordable but professional services.
How to Hire an SEO Expert Locally
There are many benefits to hiring a local SEO expert. Not only can face-to-face meetings enhance your working relationship, but a local expert will also have a strong understanding of the local market.
Benefits of hiring a local SEO expert
Hiring a local SEO expert can help you navigate the culturally specific aspects of your market. They possess valuable knowledge about the local industry competition, customer behaviours, and local keywords.
Finding SEO experts in your area
You can find local SEO experts by reaching out to your network or attending local digital marketing events. You may also conduct online searches for SEO experts in your area.
Local SEO agencies and firms
Sometimes, SEO agencies and firms could offer a more holistic service. These entities usually have teams of SEO experts with specialties in various areas of SEO.
Hiring an SEO Expert Online
Hiring online comes with its unique set of advantages. Thanks to the internet, you can hire from just about anywhere, which significantly broadens your pool of talents.
Advantages of hiring online
With online hiring, you have access to a broader talent pool and can choose the one that best fits your business. It also allows for more flexibility in terms of working hours and contractual obligations.
Verifying skills and proficiency remotely
Verifying the competencies of an online applicant can be tricky. It may involve going through their portfolio, checking their endorsements or reviews, and organising video interviews to get a feel of their proficiencies.
Online marketplaces for SEO experts
There are many online marketplaces where you can find skilled SEO experts. These platforms usually feature ratings and reviews that can help you make an informed decision.
Hiring an SEO Expert on a Freelance basis
If you have a temporary project or limited budget, hiring an SEO expert on a freelance basis might be ideal.
Understanding freelance SEO professionals
Freelance professionals are self-employed experts who provide SEO services for multiple clients. They tend to be more flexible in their working patterns and could be a great option if your project is temporary or if you have a tight budget.
Platforms for hiring freelance SEO experts
There are many platforms designed to help you connect with freelance SEO experts. These platforms will allow you to browse profiles, compare prices, and even check ratings and reviews.
Managing freelance SEO work effectively
To manage a freelance SEO expert effectively, you should establish clear objectives, set expectations from the start, maintain open lines of communication, and utilise project management tools.
Retaining Agency Services for SEO Expertise
Hiring an SEO agency allows your business to leverage a team of experts with varied skills.
Pros and cons of hiring an SEO agency
The advantage of hiring an SEO agency is the level and breadth of expertise they offer. Plus, you’ll have a dedicated account manager, dealing with one point of contact for all your SEO needs. However, it may be more expensive and you may not get the same level of personalised service.
Top SEO agencies
To find top SEO agencies, look for those with proven track records, positive client feedback, and a team of knowledgeable and experienced professionals.
Working effectively with an SEO agency
To work effectively with an SEO agency, clear communication is key. You should also be clear about your objectives, expectations, and be sure to measure results against agreed targets regularly.
Cost of Hiring a Dedicated SEO Expert
When hiring an SEO expert, it’s vital to understand the pricing models and costs involved.
Understanding SEO service pricing models
Typically, you might choose an hourly rate, a project-based rate, or a monthly retainer. The decision largely depends on the size and complexity of your project and business requirements.
Hidden costs to consider
The costs of hiring an SEO expert aren’t limited to the agreed price. You should also consider related costs such as buying SEO tools, implementation changes, and potentially even site redesigns.
Getting value for your SEO investment
To ensure you get value for your SEO investment, set clear KPIs from the outset, keep track of your SEO results, and continually assess the impact of the SEO expert’s work on your business.
Interviewing Potential SEO Experts
When interviewing potential SEO experts, it’s essential to ask them the right questions to gauge their competency.
Suggested interview questions for SEO experts
Quizzing potential experts about their experience, strategies, success stories, and knowledge of SEO tools can help gauge if they are a good fit.
Analysing responses and gauging competency
Listen keenly to the responses given by potential SEO experts. Their answers should demonstrate a thorough understanding of SEO and the ability to create strategic plans that align with your business objectives.
Negotiating contracts and terms of service
After selecting the suitable candidate, negotiate the contract terms and ensure they align with what you both understand and agree with.
Onboarding Your New SEO Expert
Onboarding a new SEO expert involves clarifying expectations, establishing communication channels, and setting up monitoring and performance measures.
Clarifying expectations and goals
It’s important to communicate your business goals, objectives, and expectations during the onboarding process. This will help your SEO expert align their strategy with your business goals.
Establishing communication channels
For effective collaboration, establish clear communication lines. This includes agreeing on check-in times and preferred methods of communication.
Setting up monitoring and performance measures
You should also set up a system to monitor the performance of your SEO efforts. This may involve setting key metrics and KPIs that align with your business goals.
Maintaining a Long-Term Relationship with Your SEO Expert
Maintaining a long-term relationship with your SEO expert can result in a better understanding of your business, which can lead to better outcomes.
Ensuring ongoing communication
Regular communication helps ensure that both parties are aligned. It also provides an opportunity to raise concerns and share ideas.
Regular reporting and review sessions
Regular reporting allows you to assess the results of your SEO efforts. It’s important to conduct regular review sessions to assess progress and adjust strategies as needed.
Adjusting strategies based on performance results
If the strategy isn’t working, you and your SEO expert should be prepared to adjust based on performance results. By doing so, you can make sure your SEO strategy stays effective and aligned with your business objectives.
Hi, I’m Nicholas Bortoluzzi (but people often call me Nico).
I am the Founder and Director at SEO Lynx, an internet marketing agency operating in the UK and servicing clients worldwide.
The article on this page was written and curated by myself.