SEO strategy
A strong online presence is crucial for business success. SEO strategy, or search engine optimisation strategy, is the roadmap that guides your website to higher rankings in search engine results pages (SERPs) like Google. A well-defined SEO strategy attracts more organic (non-paid) traffic, increases brand visibility, and ultimately drives conversions. This involves a comprehensive approach encompassing technical SEO, keyword research, content optimisation, link building, and performance analysis.
What to look for in SEO strategy freelancers
Finding the right SEO strategist is an investment in your online growth. Look for freelancers demonstrating a strong understanding of core SEO principles, analytical skills, and a proven track record. They should be adaptable to algorithm updates and possess excellent communication skills to explain complex strategies clearly.
Key qualities include:
- Proven experience in developing and implementing successful SEO strategies
- Up-to-date knowledge of current SEO best practices and algorithm changes
- Strong analytical skills to interpret data and identify opportunities
- Excellent communication and reporting skills
- A portfolio showcasing successful SEO campaigns
Main expertise areas
SEO strategy encompasses several key areas. Ensure the freelancer you choose has expertise relevant to your specific needs:
Technical SEO
This involves optimising the technical aspects of your website for search engine crawlers. This includes site speed, mobile-friendliness, site architecture, and structured data implementation.
Keyword research and analysis
Identifying the right keywords is fundamental to attracting your target audience. A skilled freelancer will conduct thorough keyword research to understand search volume, competition, and user intent.
On-page optimisation
This focuses on optimising individual web pages for specific keywords. It includes optimising title tags, meta descriptions, header tags, and content.
Off-page optimisation (link building)
Building high-quality backlinks from reputable websites is essential for improving search engine rankings. A skilled freelancer will employ ethical and effective link-building strategies.
Content strategy
Creating high-quality, engaging content that aligns with user search intent is crucial for attracting and retaining visitors. An experienced SEO strategist will develop a content strategy that supports your overall SEO goals.
Local SEO
If you have a physical business location, local SEO is essential for attracting customers in your area. This involves optimising your Google My Business profile and building local citations.
Relevant interview questions
Asking the right questions will help you assess a freelancer’s expertise. Examples include:
- Can you describe your approach to developing an SEO strategy?
- What are some of the most challenging SEO projects you’ve worked on, and how did you overcome those challenges?
- How do you stay up-to-date with the latest SEO trends and algorithm updates?
- Can you share examples of successful SEO campaigns you’ve managed?
- How do you measure the success of an SEO campaign?
- What SEO tools do you use regularly?
Tips for shortlisting candidates
When shortlisting, consider:
- The relevance of their experience to your industry and business goals
- The quality of their portfolio and case studies
- The clarity and effectiveness of their communication
- Their understanding of your target audience and business objectives
Potential red flags
Be wary of freelancers who:
- Promise guaranteed rankings
- Use black-hat SEO techniques
- Lack a clear understanding of your business and target audience
- Have a poor online reputation or negative client reviews
Typical complementary skills
SEO strategy often works best in conjunction with other digital marketing skills. These include:
- Content marketing
- Pay-per-click (PPC) advertising
- Social media marketing
- Web analytics
Benefits of hiring an SEO strategy freelancer
Hiring a skilled SEO strategist can bring numerous benefits to your business:
- Increased organic traffic to your website
- Improved search engine rankings
- Enhanced brand visibility and awareness
- Targeted traffic and qualified leads
- Data-driven insights and performance tracking
- Greater return on investment (ROI) from your marketing efforts
By carefully considering these points, you can find the perfect SEO strategy freelancer to help your business thrive online.
