What is the Difference Between an SEO Freelancer vs SEO Agency?

On the internet, being seen is everything. That's where Search Engine Optimisation, or SEO, comes in. It's like a spotlight that makes sure your business shines brighter on search engines. But who should handle this spotlight for you?

You have two main choices: an SEO freelancer or an SEO agency. Think of a freelancer as a solo expert who gives you personal attention. On the other side, an agency is like a team, each member having their own special skill, all working together for you.

So, which one is right for your business? This guide will help you understand both options better, making your decision clearer and easier.

The Evolution of SEO Service Providers

When the internet was still young, there weren't as many websites. Back then, individual SEO experts were the go-to people. They knew how to make websites stand out in search results, focusing on things like picking the right keywords.

As more businesses went online, the competition grew. It wasn't just about having the right keywords anymore. Websites needed to be user-friendly, work well on mobile phones, and offer valuable content.

With all these new challenges, SEO agencies came into the picture. These agencies had teams of people, each good at different things. So, instead of just one person trying to do everything, businesses could now get experts for every part of SEO.

Now, businesses have options. They can choose an individual expert who's really good at one thing or an agency that offers a full package. The right choice depends on what the business needs.

Knowing how SEO has changed over the years helps businesses make a smarter choice about who should handle their SEO.

Understanding Freelance SEO

An SEO freelancer is a person who helps websites show up better on search engines. They work on their own, not with a big team.

Freelancers often have one or two things they're really good at in SEO. Some might be great at finding the right words (keywords) for your website, while others might be experts at making sure your website's content is top-notch.

When you work with a freelancer, you usually talk directly to them. This means they get to know your business closely and can give you services that fit just right.

Freelancers can change their plans quickly. If something isn't working, they can try a different approach without waiting for approval from a bunch of people.

With a freelancer, it's often like building a partnership. They get to know your goals and work closely with you to achieve them.

If you're looking for a personal touch, flexibility, and someone who's really good at a specific part of SEO, a freelancer might be the right choice for you.

Why Choose an SEO Freelancer?

When it comes to SEO, there's always a choice to make: go big with an agency or opt for a freelancer. Both options have their perks, but there are some unique benefits to hiring a freelancer. Let's explore them:

Direct Communication:

With a freelancer, you communicate directly with the person handling your SEO. This means quicker responses and a clear understanding of your project's progress. There's no middleman, making discussions efficient and straightforward.

Flexibility in Service:

Freelancers can adjust their services to fit your specific needs. Unlike larger agencies with set packages, freelancers can adapt their strategies based on what works best for your business, offering a more personalised approach.

Cost-Effectiveness:

Freelancers often have lower operating costs than agencies. This can mean competitive pricing, especially for smaller projects. You get expert services without the premium price tag that larger firms might charge.

Potential Challenges of Hiring an SEO Freelancer

Hiring an SEO freelancer has its benefits, but there are also challenges to consider. Before making a decision, it's important to know both sides. Here are some potential issues to keep in mind:

Limited Expertise:

Freelancers are often experts in one or two areas of SEO, but they might not know everything. For example, someone good at writing SEO content might not be the best at the technical side of things. So, if you need a wide range of SEO services, a freelancer might not be enough.

Tools and Resources:

Top-quality SEO tools can be pricey. Some freelancers might not have access to all the best tools because of their cost. This means they might use simpler tools that don't have all the features of the more expensive ones.

Availability Issues:

Freelancers work on their own and might have many clients. Sometimes, they might be too busy to handle urgent requests or take on big projects quickly. This can be a challenge if you need fast responses or if your business grows quickly and needs more SEO work.

Exploring the World of SEO Agencies

When it comes to SEO, businesses often choose between individual freelancers and larger SEO agencies. But what makes an agency different? And why do some businesses prefer them? Let's look at what SEO agencies offer, their main benefits, and some challenges they might present.

What is an SEO Agency?

An SEO agency is like a one-stop-shop for all things related to search engine optimization. Unlike individual freelancers who might specialise in one or two areas, an agency brings together a team of experts. Each member of this team has their own specialty, be it technical SEO, content creation, link-building, or analytics. Together, they offer a comprehensive approach to improving a website's presence on search engines.

Primary Benefits of Hiring an SEO Agency

SEO can be tricky, but the right help makes a difference. SEO agencies bring a team approach to the table, offering many benefits for businesses. Let's look at the main reasons businesses opt for agencies:

Diverse Expertise:

With an agency, you're not just getting one expert; you're getting a whole team. This means whatever your SEO needs, there's likely someone at the agency who specialises in it. It's like having a toolbox with a tool for every job.

Structured Communication and Reporting:

Agencies often have set processes in place. This means regular updates, detailed reports, and a clear structure for communication. You'll always know who to talk to and can expect consistent feedback on how your SEO is performing.

Scalability:

If your business grows or if you decide to launch new products or services, an agency can easily scale up their services to match your expanding needs. They have the resources and manpower to handle larger projects without missing a beat.

Potential Drawbacks of Hiring an SEO Agency

While agencies bring a lot to the table, it's essential to be aware of potential challenges. Like any choice in business, there are upsides and downsides. Here's what to keep in mind when looking at agencies:

Cost Implications:

Having access to a team of experts and top-tier tools often comes at a premium. Agencies might have higher rates compared to individual freelancers, especially for short-term projects or smaller tasks but an experienced agency is generally able to produce a higher desired outcome due to the extended experience.

Less Personalised Attention:

While agencies offer a broad range of services, they also serve a larger client base. This might mean that you don't get the same level of personal attention as you would with a freelancer. It's a bit like comparing a boutique store to a big supermarket; both have their merits, but the experience can be different.

Technical vs. Strategic SEO: Who Excels Where?

In SEO, there are two main pillars: Technical and Strategic. Understanding the distinction between these two is critical for any business aiming to improve its online presence.

Technical SEO:

Technical SEO is about making sure a website works well for both users and search engines. This means to optimise for crawlability, render efficiently, and establish proper indexation. Additionally, it's important having a clear website structure, ensuring it loads quickly, and making sure it's easy to use on mobile devices, as many people browse the web on their phones. 

Strategic SEO:

Strategic SEO is about making content that your audience values. It means writing helpful content, getting trusted websites to link to yours, and using the right keywords so people can find you easily on search engines.

Freelancers vs. Agencies:

Freelancers usually focus on one area of SEO. For example, one might be great at making websites load fast but not as skilled in planning content. Agencies, however, have a team with different skills. They can handle both the behind-the-scenes technical work and the forward-facing content strategy. So, while a freelancer offers deep knowledge in one area, an agency gives a broader range of SEO services which work in tandem to help you achieve the desired outcome

Deciding Between an SEO Freelancer and an Agency

Picking between a freelancer and an agency for your SEO needs is a big decision. Both have their strengths, and the best choice depends on what you're looking for.

Cost Implications:

Agencies might cost more because they offer many services together. This can be good value if you need lots of different SEO tasks done. Freelancers might charge less because they focus on one or two things. They're a good choice if you have a specific job in mind and are watching your budget.

Skills and Expertise:

Think about what skills you need. If you want someone who's really good at one thing, a freelancer might be the way to go. But if you need help with many parts of SEO, an agency has a team that can cover everything.

Communication:

How you talk with your SEO expert matters. With a freelancer, it's often more personal, like chatting with a friend who's helping you out. Agencies might have set times for updates and reports, making sure you always know what's going on.

Finding the Right Fit for Your Business in SEO

Choosing the right SEO partner is about more than just expertise; it's about finding someone who fits well with your business.

Freelancers can often blend into your team easily. They can get a feel for your company's style and values, working closely with you. This means they can tailor their SEO work to fit just right with your business's voice and goals.

Agencies have their own way of doing things. They bring a structured approach, which can be very professional. But it's important to pick an agency that gets your company's vibe. They should offer strategies that match your business's big picture and respect what your brand stands for.

Staying Ahead in the Changing World of SEO

When choosing an SEO partner, it's essential to be cautious and know the signs of a potentially unreliable provider.

If someone promises you the top spot on search results in a very short time or guarantees specific traffic numbers, be sceptical. SEO is complex, and results can't be guaranteed overnight. Quick fixes often involve shortcuts that can harm your site in the long run.

Always ask for examples of past work or client references. A trustworthy freelancer or agency will be proud of their successes and happy to share them. If they're hesitant or can't provide evidence of their work, it's a warning sign.

Clear communication is vital in SEO. If your potential partner is not transparent about their strategies, avoids answering questions, or is hard to get a hold of, think twice. You should always know what's being done on your site and why.

While it's great to aim high, setting unrealistic goals can lead to disappointment. A good SEO expert will set achievable targets and be honest about what can and can't be done.

Conclusion

Deciding between an SEO freelancer and an agency is important. The best choice depends on what your business needs, how much you want to spend, and how you like to work. Take your time, think about what you really need, and do your homework. Making the right choice can help your business do well online.

Speaking of doing well online, let's talk about Marketix Digital. We are an SEO agency in Sydney that knows how to get more people to see your business online. We focus on just a few things: SEO, PPC, and Google Ads. This means we are experts in these areas. Whether you're a small shop or a big company, Marketix can help you get more customers and grow your business in Australia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between an SEO freelancer and an SEO agency?

The main difference between an SEO freelancer and an SEO agency is that a freelancer is an individual expert, while an agency is a team of experts offering a range of services.

Is an SEO freelancer more affordable than an SEO agency?

An SEO freelancer might charge less for specific tasks, but an SEO agency offers a comprehensive set of services which might cost more overall.

Can an SEO agency offer more services than a freelancer?

Yes, an SEO agency can offer more services than a freelancer because they have a diverse team with different skills.

Is communication more direct with an SEO freelancer compared to an agency?

Communication with an SEO freelancer is often more direct and personal, while an agency might have a more structured communication process.

Who should I choose for a specialised SEO task, a freelancer or an agency?

For a specialised SEO task, a freelancer might be the best choice because they often focus on specific areas, but an agency can also provide specialists within their team.