SEO copywriting
SEO copywriting is the art and science of crafting compelling, engaging content that ranks well in search engine results pages (SERPs) like Google. It's more than just sprinkling keywords throughout a text; it's about understanding your target audience's search intent and providing valuable information that answers their questions while simultaneously adhering to SEO best practices. This ensures your content is discoverable by the right people, driving organic traffic and ultimately achieving your business objectives.
What to look for in SEO copywriters
When hiring an SEO copywriter, look for a demonstrable track record of creating high-quality, SEO-friendly content that has driven tangible results. A strong portfolio showcasing diverse content formats (blog posts, website copy, product descriptions, etc.) is essential. Beyond technical SEO knowledge, seek out writers with excellent communication skills, a keen eye for detail, and the ability to adapt their writing style to different brands and audiences.
Key skills and qualities:
- Proven experience in creating SEO-optimised content
- Strong understanding of keyword research and on-page optimisation
- Familiarity with SEO tools like SEMrush, Ahrefs, and Google Search Console
- Excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills
- Ability to adapt to different brand voices and target audiences
- Strong communication and collaboration skills
Main expertise areas
SEO copywriting encompasses various specialisations. Depending on your needs, consider freelancers with expertise in:
- Website copywriting: Crafting compelling website content that attracts and converts visitors.
- Blog post writing: Creating informative and engaging blog content that drives organic traffic.
- Product description writing: Writing persuasive product descriptions that boost sales.
- Technical SEO writing: Focusing on highly technical content requiring in-depth knowledge of a specific industry.
- Local SEO copywriting: Optimising content for local searches and targeting specific geographic areas.
Relevant interview questions
To assess a freelancer's suitability, prepare insightful questions such as:
- Describe your SEO copywriting process.
- How do you conduct keyword research?
- Share examples of successful SEO campaigns you've worked on.
- How do you measure the effectiveness of your content?
- What are your preferred SEO tools and why?
- How do you stay up-to-date with the latest SEO trends and algorithm updates?
Tips for shortlisting candidates
Effectively shortlist by:
- Carefully reviewing portfolios for relevant experience and quality of work.
- Checking client testimonials and reviews.
- Assessing communication skills and responsiveness during initial interactions.
- Looking for a clear understanding of your specific needs and target audience.
Potential red flags
Be wary of freelancers who:
- Promise guaranteed rankings.
- Use black hat SEO techniques.
- Lack a demonstrable portfolio or client testimonials.
- Are unable to clearly articulate their SEO process.
Typical complementary skills
SEO copywriters often possess complementary skills such as:
- Content strategy
- Keyword research
- On-page optimisation
- Conversion rate optimisation (CRO)
- Social media marketing
Benefits of hiring a freelance SEO copywriter
Hiring a freelance SEO copywriter can bring numerous benefits to your business, including:
- Increased organic traffic: Well-optimised content attracts more visitors from search engines.
- Improved search engine rankings: Higher rankings lead to greater visibility and brand authority.
- Enhanced brand credibility: High-quality content positions your business as a thought leader in your industry.
- Cost-effectiveness: Freelancers offer flexible and scalable solutions tailored to your budget.
- Targeted audience reach: SEO copywriting ensures your content reaches the right people at the right time.
By understanding the nuances of SEO copywriting and following these guidelines, you can effectively hire a skilled freelancer who will help elevate your online presence and achieve your business goals.
