Are you thinking of becoming an SEO freelancer?
Whether you’re planning to do it full-time, or just as a side gig to make some extra cash, this could be a great career move.
You have to do it right. The stakes are high, and lots of new businesses fail due to poor preparation. In this post, we’ll tell you how to start your new career the right way.
How to Get Started as an SEO Freelancer
These could be the first five steps on your new career path.
1. Learn the Tricks of the Trade
If you’re not already an SEO whiz, you’ll have some studying to do. Dedicate some time to learning the ins and outs of the business by studying online or even taking an accredited course.
Try volunteering to do SEO for a non-profit organization or a friend’s business. This will help you hone your skills and put your knowledge into practice.
2. Get the Right Tools
To be a professional freelance SEO expert, you’ll need to arm yourself with the right tools for the job.
For example, Buzz Sumo can give you an analysis of how content is performing, Grammarly can help you write blog posts free from spelling and grammatical errors, and Feedly can display the content you need for your research.
There are lots of other tools out there to make your job easier. Read more to find out what they are.
3. Find a Niche
Get a niche, and your chances of success could be much higher.
If you specialize in a specific area, it will be easier for you to find and attract new clients. Do this by selecting one area of SEO that you’re particularly good at or interested in.
This could include Javascript, WordPress, link building, content marketing, pay-per-click advertising, or anything you’d like. Find out what your strength is and focus on that.
4. Build a Website
Like any business, you’ll need to create a website.
This will allow clients to find you through online searches. It will also allow you to show off your skills by displaying an online portfolio of your work.
Some business website essentials to add include contact information links to social media channels, a blog, excellent loading speed and a layout that’s easy to navigate. If you have these, you’ll be off to a great start.
Use your SEO knowledge to optimize your own website. This will be great practice for working with clients, as well as helping to advertise your services.
5. Keep Learning
The world of SEO is constantly changing, with new trends emerging every day.
To stay on top of it all, you’ll have to make sure you’re always learning. Otherwise, your competitors will leave you in the dust.
More Freelancing Tips
Quitting your full-time job and going freelance could be one of the best decisions you’ve ever made.
Instead of answering to a boss, you can take things into your own hands. However, the transition and responsibility can be a challenge.
Before you make the jump to being an SEO freelancer, there are a few things you need to do in order to prepare yourself. To find out what they are, read our post on things to think about before going freelance.
