Hero - Outsourcing SEO - SEO Outsourcing Tips
14/06/2024

Overwhelmed by SEO? Outsource to Simplify the Process

If you’re a small business owner, you’ve likely heard about SEO and its magical ability to boost your online presence. But, like many, you might feel held back from diving into it because setting up an in-house SEO team seems out of reach. Two main hurdles often stand in the way:

  • High Salaries: SEO experts command high salaries, which can be a significant burden for smaller businesses.
  • Time-Consuming Training: Building and training an in-house SEO team requires a lot of time and resources.

But guess what? There’s a better way to overcome these challenges: outsourcing your SEO to a third-party service provider. By outsourcing, you can reap the benefits of SEO without the complexities and costs associated with an in-house team.

Let’s dive into how SEO outsourcing works and how you can do it effectively.

Table of Contents

What is SEO Outsourcing?

SEO outsourcing involves hiring an external agency or professional to manage your search engine optimisation efforts. Instead of handling SEO in-house, which requires significant expertise and resources, you delegate these tasks to specialists.

This approach allows you to leverage their experience, tools, and up-to-date knowledge of SEO trends and algorithms. Whether you’re looking to improve your site’s rankings, drive more traffic, or enhance your overall online visibility, outsourcing can be a strategic move.

Benefits of Outsourcing SEO

Expertise and Experience

SEO is a constantly evolving field. By outsourcing, you gain access to experts who stay updated with the latest trends and algorithm changes. Their knowledge can help implement effective strategies that might be beyond your current skill set.

Time Savings

SEO is time-consuming. From keyword research to content creation and link building, it requires consistent effort. Outsourcing frees up your time, allowing you to focus on other crucial aspects of your business.

Cost-Effective

Hiring a full-time, in-house SEO team can be expensive. Outsourcing provides a more affordable option, as you pay for the services you need without the overhead costs of additional employees.

Access to Advanced Tools

Professional SEO agencies use sophisticated tools and software to analyse and optimise your website. These tools can be expensive and require expertise to use effectively.

Scalability

As your business grows, so do your SEO needs. Outsourcing offers the flexibility to scale services up or down based on your requirements, ensuring that your SEO strategy evolves with your business.

Ready to Scale up and meet the growing demands of your business?

I can help! Let’s chat about how we can work together to achieve your goals and make your business' growth story a successful one.
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Types of SEO Services That Can Be Outsourced

Here are some of the key SEO tasks you can outsource to make your business shine online.

Keyword Research

Identifying the right keywords is crucial for your SEO strategy. Professionals can conduct comprehensive research to find high-traffic, low-competition keywords relevant to your business.

On-Page SEO

This includes optimising your website's content, meta tags, headers, and images to make it more search-engine friendly.

Content Creation

High-quality, relevant content is the backbone of SEO. Outsourcing content creation ensures you have a steady stream of engaging blog posts, articles, and other forms of content.

Technical SEO

This involves optimising the technical aspects of your site, such as site speed, mobile-friendliness, and XML sitemaps, ensuring search engines can crawl and index your site efficiently.

Link Building

Earning high-quality backlinks from authoritative sites can significantly boost your search rankings. An experienced SEO team can develop and implement effective link-building strategies.

SEO Audits

Regular audits help identify issues and areas for improvement on your site. Outsourcing ensures a thorough and unbiased assessment of your SEO performance.

Local SEO

For businesses targeting local customers, local SEO is vital. This includes optimising your Google My Business profile, managing online reviews, and ensuring your business appears in local search results.

E-commerce SEO

If you run an online store, e-commerce SEO is crucial for driving sales. This includes optimising product descriptions, improving site architecture, and implementing effective internal linking strategies to boost product visibility.

When Should You Outsource SEO?

Here are several scenarios where outsourcing your SEO efforts might be the right move:

Lack of Expertise

SEO is a specialised field that requires a deep understanding of search engine algorithms, keyword research, content optimisation, link building, and much more. If you or your team lack this expertise, you might struggle to see significant results.

Signs It's Time to Outsource:

  • Your current SEO efforts aren't producing the desired results.
  • You feel overwhelmed by the technical aspects of SEO.
  • You're unsure about the latest SEO trends and best practices.

Limited Time

Running a business involves juggling multiple responsibilities, from managing operations to customer service and everything in between. SEO, being an ongoing process, requires continuous effort and attention.

Signs It's Time to Outsource:

  • You find it challenging to dedicate sufficient time to SEO tasks.
  • SEO tasks are consistently being pushed down your priority list.
  • You want to focus more on core business activities rather than getting bogged down by SEO.

Budget Constraints

Hiring an in-house SEO team can be costly. You need to consider salaries, benefits, training, and other overhead costs. For many small and medium-sized businesses, this isn't feasible.

Signs It's Time to Outsource:

  • You don't have the budget to hire full-time SEO professionals.
  • You want to access high-quality SEO services without breaking the bank.
  • You prefer a more cost-effective solution that still delivers results.

Need for Advanced Tools and Techniques

Professional SEO requires sophisticated tools for keyword research, competitive analysis, tracking, and reporting. These tools can be expensive and require expertise to use effectively.

Signs It's Time to Outsource:

  • You lack access to advanced SEO tools and software.
  • You're not familiar with how to use SEO tools to their full potential.
  • You want to leverage the latest technology without investing heavily in it yourself.

Desire for Faster Results

SEO is a long-term investment, but having experienced professionals handle your SEO can speed up the process of seeing tangible results. Experts know the most effective strategies and can avoid common pitfalls that might slow you down.

Signs It's Time to Outsource:

  • You're eager to see improvements in your search engine rankings sooner rather than later.
  • Your current SEO efforts are progressing too slowly.
  • You want to implement advanced strategies quickly and efficiently.

Stagnant Growth

If your website's traffic and rankings have plateaued, it might be time for a fresh perspective. External SEO professionals can bring new ideas and strategies to the table, helping to reignite growth.

Signs It's Time to Outsource:

  • Your website's growth has stagnated despite ongoing SEO efforts.
  • You need a fresh set of eyes to identify new opportunities.
  • You want to revamp your SEO strategy to overcome a plateau.

SEO Outsourcing Options

1. Freelancers

Freelancers are individual SEO experts who offer their services on a project basis. They can handle specific SEO tasks or provide comprehensive SEO strategies.

Pros:

  • Cost-Effective: Generally cheaper than agencies, making them ideal for small businesses or specific tasks.
  • Flexibility: You can hire them for short-term projects or ongoing work as needed.
  • Personal Attention: Direct communication with the freelancer can lead to a more personalised approach.

Cons:

  • Limited Resources: Freelancers might not have access to the same tools and resources as larger agencies.
  • Availability: They may juggle multiple clients, which could affect their availability and responsiveness.
  • Variable Quality: The skill level can vary greatly, so thorough vetting is necessary.

Pricing Range:

  • Hourly Rate: $50 - $150 per hour
  • Monthly Retainer: $500 - $2,000 per month
  • Project-Based: $1,000 - $7,500 per project

2. SEO Agencies

SEO agencies are firms that specialise in offering a wide range of SEO services. They usually have a team of experts, each specialising in different aspects of SEO.

Pros:

  • Comprehensive Services: Agencies provide a full suite of SEO services, from technical audits to content creation.
  • Advanced Tools: They have access to sophisticated SEO tools and software.
  • Experience and Expertise: Agencies often have extensive experience across various industries and markets.

Cons:

  • Cost: More expensive than freelancers, which might be a barrier for small businesses.
  • Less Personalisation: Larger agencies might not offer the same level of personalised service as freelancers.
  • Contract Commitments: Agencies often require longer-term contracts.

Pricing Range:

  • Monthly Retainer: $2,500 - $10,000+ per month
  • Project-Based: $5,000 - $30,000+ per project

3. Consultants

SEO consultants are highly experienced individuals who provide strategic advice and guidance. They often work with your existing team to improve your SEO efforts.

Pros:

  • Expert Advice: Consultants bring a high level of expertise and can offer strategic insights.
  • Customisation: They provide tailored advice specific to your business needs.
  • Flexibility: You can hire them for specific advice or ongoing strategic support.

Cons:

  • Cost: High hourly rates can add up, especially for ongoing support.
  • No Execution: Consultants typically provide advice but don't execute the strategies themselves.
  • Finding the Right Fit: The effectiveness of a consultant depends heavily on their fit with your business needs.

Pricing Range:

  • Hourly Rate: $100 - $300+ per hour
  • Monthly Retainer: $1,000 - $5,000+ per month
  • Project-Based: $2,500 - $15,000+ per project

4. White-Label SEO Providers

White-label SEO providers offer SEO services that other agencies or businesses can resell under their own brand. This can be a good option for marketing agencies looking to expand their service offerings without hiring in-house SEO experts.

Pros:

  • Scalability: Allows you to scale your SEO services quickly.
  • Cost-Effective: Often cheaper than building an in-house team.
  • Expertise: Access to specialised SEO skills without direct hiring.

Cons:

  • Lack of Direct Control: Since services are resold, you have less control over the work.
  • Quality Variability: The quality of white-label services can vary, so thorough vetting is necessary.
  • Brand Risk: If the white-label provider delivers subpar results, it can affect your brand’s reputation.

Pricing Range:

  • Monthly Retainer: $1,000 - $5,000+ per month
  • Project-Based: $2,500 - $20,000+ per project

Top SEO Outsourcing Companies 2024

1. SEOBoost.io

SEOBoost is the premier choice for SEO outsourcing, thanks to their unique hybrid SEO approach that blends traditional techniques with cutting-edge strategies. Founded by industry veterans with over a decade of experience, SEOBoost brings unparalleled expertise to the table.

2. iScale-Solutions.com

iScale Solutions provides a full suite of SEO services tailored to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes. Their team of SEO experts works closely with clients to understand their specific goals and create customised strategies that deliver results. From technical SEO to content marketing, iScale Solutions covers all aspects of SEO.

3. SafariDigital.com.au

Safari Digital offers a strategic and transparent approach to SEO. Known for their in-depth industry knowledge and data-driven methods, Safari Digital focuses on creating customised SEO strategies that drive organic growth and deliver long-term results. They emphasise clear communication and regular reporting, ensuring clients are always in the loop.

4. Victorious.com

Victorious SEO is celebrated for its results-oriented approach and transparent processes. They offer a comprehensive range of SEO services, including technical SEO, link building, and content strategy. Victorious focuses on driving measurable results and provides clients with detailed reporting to track their progress.

How to Outsource SEO Services for Small Business Effectively

So, you’ve decided that outsourcing your SEO is the best move for your business. That’s a fantastic step toward enhancing your online presence and driving more traffic to your website. But how do you ensure that you’re doing it effectively? Here are the key steps and best practices to help you outsource your SEO like a pro.

1. Define Your Goals

Before you start looking for an SEO partner, it's crucial to have a clear understanding of what you want to achieve. Are you aiming to increase website traffic, improve your search engine rankings, boost online sales, or enhance your brand visibility? Knowing your goals will help you find a provider who aligns with your business objectives.

Questions to Consider:

  • What are your specific SEO goals?
  • What metrics will you use to measure success?
  • Are there any particular challenges you're facing with your current SEO efforts?

2. Do Your Research

Finding the right SEO provider requires thorough research. Look for agencies or freelancers with a proven track record, positive client testimonials, and case studies that demonstrate their expertise.

Steps to Take:

  • Check Reviews and Testimonials: Look for reviews on Google, Yelp, and other review sites to see what previous clients say about their services.
  • Review Portfolios: Ask for case studies or examples of their previous work to gauge their success with other clients.
  • Verify Certifications: Look for certifications from reputable organizations like Google Analytics, HubSpot, or SEMrush.

3. Ask the Right Questions

When you’ve shortlisted a few potential SEO partners, it's time to dig deeper. Prepare a list of questions to understand their approach, strategies, and how they plan to achieve your goals.

Important Questions:

  • What SEO strategies do you use?
  • How do you stay updated with the latest SEO trends and algorithm changes?
  • Can you provide examples of successful campaigns in your industry?
  • How do you measure and report on progress?
    What tools do you use for SEO?

4. Set Clear Expectations

Clear communication is key to a successful partnership. Define the scope of work, deliverables, timelines, and reporting structure from the start.

Steps to Ensure Clarity:

  • Create a Detailed Contract: Outline all the deliverables, timelines, and responsibilities in a contract.
  • Set Milestones: Break down the project into manageable milestones to track progress.
  • Agree on Reporting: Decide on the frequency and format of performance reports.

5. Monitor Progress Regularly

Outsourcing doesn't mean you should take a hands-off approach. Regularly monitor the progress and performance of your SEO efforts to ensure they align with your goals.

Monitoring Tips:

  • Regular Meetings: Schedule regular check-ins to discuss progress, challenges, and next steps.
  • Track Key Metrics: Keep an eye on key metrics such as organic traffic, keyword rankings, and conversion rates.
  • Request Detailed Reports: Ensure your SEO partner provides detailed reports with actionable insights.

6. Stay Involved and Provide Feedback

Your involvement and feedback are crucial for the success of your SEO efforts. Stay engaged with your SEO partner and provide constructive feedback to help them understand your business better and refine their strategies.

Ways to Stay Involved:

  • Collaborate on Content: Work together on content ideas and provide insights into your industry.
  • Share Business Updates: Keep your SEO partner informed about any changes in your business, products, or services.
  • Provide Feedback: Regularly review their work and provide feedback to ensure it aligns with your expectations.

7. Be Patient and Realistic

SEO is a long-term investment. It takes time to see significant results, so be patient and realistic with your expectations. Consistency and continuous improvement are key to achieving long-term success.

Things to Remember:

  • Set Realistic Goals: Understand that SEO results can take several months to materialise.
  • Be Prepared for Adjustments: SEO strategies may need to be adjusted based on performance and algorithm changes.
  • Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate small achievements along the way to stay motivated.

Ready to Outsource your SEO?

Outsourcing SEO, when done right, can significantly boost your digital presence, helping you reach more of your target audience and drive more revenue for your business.

Whether you choose an agency or a freelancer, finding the right SEO provider with years of experience and expertise can help you achieve your goals.

If you’re short on time or need help finding the perfect partner, let’s chat! I’ve helped hundreds of businesses like yours scale up with my proven digital marketing skills. Together, we can take your online presence to the next level.