Explore the pros and cons of SEO outsourcing vs in-house management. Determine the best approach to boost your website’s search engine rankings.
A defined marketing strategy is essential when starting or operating a small business. An estimated 37 percent of small businesses in the U.S. do not have a defined marketing strategy. Your marketing strategy is designed to act as a road map toward reaching your target audience and converting them into customers.
One of the best ways to boost your marketing is to invest in search engine optimization (SEO) management. SEO management can help you find the keywords and topics to increase your website’s rankings. The challenge is determining whether you should use SEO outsourcing or
an in-house option.
Learning more about both options is best to make informed business decisions. Continue reading to learn about the pros and cons of SEO outsourcing vs. in-house SEO today!
What Is the Difference Between In-House vs. Outsourced SEO?
In-house SEO starts by hiring a new employee or training an existing one on SEO principles.
The employee receives pay and benefits from your company in exchange for their work and expertise.
Outsourced SEO requires finding a consulting agency or freelance SEO expert to provide the SEO services you need. It’s a cost-effective option to boost your marketing plan.
Pros and Cons of In-House SEO
You’ll find several pros and cons when you’re on the fence about hiring an in-house SEO specialist. Understanding each and how it affects your brand can help you determine the best path for your company’s future. It’s up to you to determine if the benefits outweigh the drawbacks.
Pros of In-House SEO
The most prominent benefit you gain when you hire an in-house SEO expert is increased control. You can set goals and determine the path forward for your brand’s SEO marketing plans. You’ll decide what you want and direct the in-house employee on how you’d like content framed and which keywords to use.
It’s also beneficial because the in-house SEO expert will have enhanced familiarity with the brand. They’ll know the tone, products, and services of your brand. The SEO expert will have an easier time producing compelling and informative content based on existing knowledge of your company.
Cons of In-House SEO
Several cons can outweigh the benefits depending on your budget and business goals. One drawback is the high cost associated with hiring an in-house employee. You’ll need to provide them with pay, a benefits package, and the tools to analyze and improve your search engine optimization.
You’ll also need to ensure your employee is dedicated to covering your SEO needs. The job is intensive, and the best SEO specialists must monitor Google and other search engines’ algorithm changes.
Pros and Cons of SEO Outsourcing
Hiring a freelance SEO expert or partner is a feasible way to improve your website and boost your rankings. It’s a more cost-effective option to help you reach the heights you dream of. Here’s a deep dive into the pros and cons of outsourcing your SEO needs.
Pros of Outsourced SEO
When you hire an SEO agency or freelancer, you’re gaining access to someone with years of industry experience. You can count on these professionals to know how to improve your website and landing pages. They will look for weaknesses within your site and begin creating plans to improve them.
You’ll also save money when hiring a freelance SEO expert. The expert will build the cost of the tools and resources they use into the price you’re paying for their services. It’s more cost-effective than purchasing these tools for an in-house employee to learn and use, helping you leverage the outsourcing benefits.
Outsourced SEO is also beneficial because it’s the perfect setup for scaling your marketing needs. The experts will know how to use all marketing channels to generate more organic web traffic. Consider hiring an SEO expert to help you build more authority.
Cons of Outsourced SEO
While the benefits of outsourced SEO are impressive, there are some less-than-stellar aspects to consider before making business decisions. You’ll need to do extra research to find SEO experts with experience working within your niche. Niche knowledge can help your SEO assistant produce captivating content for your website.
Depending on the freelance expert you partner with, you may also have less control over your SEO strategy. Finding the ideal fit can streamline the process and enhance SEO rankings. The wrong partner can result in a frustrating, negative experience that results in lost money.
Tips for Choosing Your SEO Options
Several factors come into play when determining whether outsourcing or hiring in-house is the best step. Factors like your business budget, project scope, and SEO experience can help you make the best choice for your business’s future. Use these tips to find the perfect fit.
Know Your Budget
Hiring an in-house SEO expert can cost over $40,000 after all benefits are included. It’s a significant expense that some small businesses can’t cover. If you plan on building an SEO team, your costs can skyrocket.
SEO services often charge between $2,500 and $10,000 monthly. Hiring an expert on the lower end of the pay scale is a more economical decision. Determine what you can afford to find the ideal fit.
Know Your Scope
Technical SEO projects require experts to help you boost your website. It’s best to find the most experienced option when tackling these projects. 
You can count on the SEO expert to guide you through the process and achieve optimal results.
Internal Experience
In-house SEO is an ideal fit if you have an existing employee with SEO experience. You can get the help you need without substantial additional costs.
Consider SEO Outsourcing for Your Brand
SEO outsourcing is an effective way to identify weaknesses in your company website and optimize it for more organic traffic. Outsourced SEO work is more cost-effective, and you can vet your options to find someone with the skills and experience you need.
In-house SEO is best if you have an employee with existing SEO experience. You can save on the benefits package and additional salary while receiving guidance toward the best business decisions.
Marketing is essential for businesses to find leads and convert them into loyal customers. Read our Business Insights content for more ideas to help your brand stand out today!
