Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is essential for your business to stand out from the competition. However, getting impactful results with a limited in-house team is challenging.
With Google's frequent algorithm changes and over 3.5 billion daily searches, maintaining high rankings is crucial. If you haven't seen substantial results, it's time to consider outsourcing SEO services to professionals.
Table of Contents
- What Is Outsourcing SEO Services?
- Functions of Outsourced SEO Services
- Outsourcing Alternatives
- Why Should Brands Outsource SEO Services
- Benefits of Outsourcing SEO Services
- How to Outsource SEO Services
- The Best SEO Agencies to Make Your Business Stand Out in Cyberspace
- Collaborating with an SEO Agency
- Expert Insights on Outsourcing SEO Services
- Outsourcing SEO Services – Key Takeaways
- FAQs
What Is Outsourcing SEO Services?
Outsourcing SEO services refers to hiring a third party to handle search engine optimization services, such as on-page optimization (metadata, image optimization, keyword density, blogs, etc.) and off-page optimization (social media, guest posts, link building, link outreach, etc.).
A third-party provider can be an SEO agency or an individual freelancer. Firms may opt for outsourcing to assist them with scalability, keep up with the competition, and offer better services to their clientele.
Functions of Outsourced SEO Services
Google uses more than 200 ranking factors for its search algorithm, so SEO service providers must cover more than the basics.
These are the primary services that agencies offer:
- Conducting competitive analysis and keyword research
- Creating a new content strategy and crafting new content
- Content marketing
- Building backlinks
- Organizing internal links
- Pay-per-click (PPC) advertising and other strategies
- Optimizing the existing content with a new SEO strategy
- Optimizing website technicalities
- Conducting SEO audits and analyses
- On-site writing and optimization
- Social media marketing
- Reporting and analysis
Outsourcing Alternatives
As businesses see an average 2.8% increase in revenue from investing in SEO, and those with mature SEO programs see that number jump to 20%, you should pick your associates carefully.
SEO Agency
SEO agencies can provide years of experience and niche expertise. Since they focus solely on SEO, firms can be confident in their methods and approaches.
When choosing an SEO agency, studying their previous case studies, testimonials, and results can present valuable information about the solutions they provide. SEO agencies are usually suitable for mid-size businesses, as the scope of services they offer may be wider than that of a freelancer but potentially narrower than a full-fledged digital marketing agency.
Independent Contractor or Freelancer
This option is cost-effective and allows direct involvement with the service provider. However, constant communication is essential to stay updated on trends. The downside is the time spent monitoring contractor deliverables, and having a single SEO professional can delay results.
Moreover, finding reliable experts is challenging, and a lack of skill can result in missed strategic guidance. Freelancers are suitable for small- to mid-size businesses and occasional SEO tasks but may be risky for high-budget projects.
Digital Marketing Agency
A digital marketing agency commonly offers multiple services along with SEO, which is fitting for large businesses. This helps seamlessly integrate multiple channels such as paid search, native and display advertising, public relations (PR), and retargeting.
Digital marketing agencies usually have teams of insightful professionals, whose experience brands can leverage and progress at a faster rate. One drawback is that while juggling multiple services, agencies with a more varied offering might not be as specialized compared to ones solely focusing on SEO.
In-house vs. Outsourcing
In-house
In-house SEO can be a double-edged sword. While it offers control, the learning curve for beginners can be steep, requiring time and effort to become proficient in essential tasks like page optimization, keyword research, and backlink building. This makes the approach labor-intensive, especially when operating with limited staff lacking specific skills.
Moreover, reallocating internal resources can become challenging if the project scope changes. These complexities often make a strong case for outsourcing to a more diverse and experienced SEO team.
Outsourcing
Outsourcing becomes particularly useful when scaling. It allows companies to extend their capabilities without the added costs of expanding an internal team. By outsourcing, firms gain access to seasoned SEO strategists and specialists who utilize SEO automation and are much more efficient.
The case for outsourcing becomes much stronger when considering the global business process outsourcing market is expected to reach $525 billion by 2030. That exemplifies the effectiveness outsourcing has, and it’s no different for SEO services.
Ultimately, delegating SEO to a third party helps execute current strategies and provides the expert guidance needed to make strategic pivots when necessary.
Why Should Brands Outsource SEO Services
The most compelling reasons to outsource SEO services include:
Added expertise: SEO is more than just keyword optimization and impacts customer acquisition, market share, and revenue. Outsourcing gives you access to experts who can improve your organic search performance and reduce acquisition and media costs.
Scalability: Experienced SEO professionals can develop effective, long-term strategies that drive consistent traffic. If your brand has big goals, managing everything in-house can be overwhelming.
Prompt results: Outsourcing to professionals can deliver quick results and help avoid costly mistakes, making your brand more scalable through advanced technology and expert guidance.
Benefits of Outsourcing SEO Services
Outsourcing SEO services brings the following benefits:
- Cost and time efficiency, as outsourcing can significantly reduce the financial and time investment needed for an in-house team. As SEO is an ever-evolving field, training costs can increase quickly.
- Effective scaling, as SEO specialists can quickly measure, test, and analyze processes to ensure efficiency. Outsourcing also ensures you're following SEO best practices to maintain your rankings.
- Improves ROI — expert SEO outsourcing services significantly improve return on investment (ROI) even for small businesses by helping with lead generation, customer acquisition, and even in assessing customer lifecycle and perception.
How to Outsource SEO Services
To find the ideal outsourcing partner for your SEO needs, you need to consider expertise, range of services offered, track record, and how well the third party's offering aligns with your business goals.
Let’s check the specifics.
Outline Your Goals
Clearly defining your objectives is crucial before searching for the ideal SEO agency. Consider the following questions to guide your decision-making:
- What type of traffic are you targeting?
- Which sales areas need improvement?
- Does your business operate locally, nationally, or globally?
- Do you have multiple outlets that require individual SEO support?
- What geographical regions are you focusing on?
- What are your key focus areas — product improvements, new ideas, customer acquisition, or lead generation?
- What are your long-term goals for SEO?
- What is your projected revenue from SEO efforts?
Answering these questions will provide a solid foundation for evaluating whether a professional or agency aligns well with your needs.
Highlight the Required Services
Once you've outlined your SEO goals, the next step is to identify the services you need. These could range from technical SEO, content creation, and link building to keyword research. There are also secondary services, which may include reputation management, local SEO, or algorithm recovery. Determine whether you need a comprehensive package or specific services.
At this stage, it's also important to highlight any specialized services you may require. Inquire about the agency's offerings and what differentiates them from competitors. Verify their claims by checking their website and online presence.
Don’t overlook specialized capabilities, such as those offered by .Net software development companies, which can optimize your website’s performance and functionality.
Set a Timeline
SEO is a long-term commitment, often requiring at least 12 months to yield noticeable results. If immediate results are a priority, consider options like PPC. However, be wary of agencies promising unrealistically quick outcomes, as they often utilize questionable practices that could lead to penalties from Google.
It's also essential to account for changing requirements. Ensure your SEO plans are flexible enough to adapt to your evolving needs without disrupting your existing workflows.
Determine the Budget
Striking the right balance between the services you need and what you can afford is crucial. Opting for a low-cost solution may yield limited results, but it could also involve risky tactics like backlink spamming or producing low-quality, keyword-stuffed content. Eventually, that can harm your SEO efforts more than it helps.
Conversely, a higher price tag doesn't necessarily guarantee quality. The key is to conduct thorough research and analyze different pricing models to make an informed decision. Starting on the wrong foot can be more costly in the long run, so getting the budget right from the beginning is essential.
Evaluate Multiple SEO Agencies
When selecting an SEO agency, look for one with a proven track record and positive online reviews. Examine their case studies and portfolios to understand their expertise in your industry, and once you've shortlisted potential agencies, schedule consultation calls.
During these discussions, consider the following:
- Years in operation
- Types of clients they serve (small, mid, or large businesses)
- Approach to Competitor Research
- Tools and technologies used
- Client references and testimonials
- Metrics for measuring success
Transparency is crucial, so avoid agencies that make vague promises without demonstrating a history of substantial results.
The Best SEO Agencies to Make Your Business Stand Out in Cyberspace
If outsourcing SEO services sounds like something you might consider, these agencies could best match your needs:
1. Atlas Softweb
- Location: 413, Palladium Business Hub, Motera – Sabarmati Ahmedabad 380005 Gujarat – India
- Average Hourly Rate: Inquire
- Expertise: Web Design, UI/UX Design, eCommerce Web Development, Custom Web Application Development, Digital Marketing, and SEO
Since its inception in 2011, Atlas Softweb has specialized in various services that give clients a competitive advantage. The firm offers web design, SEO optimization, eCommerce solutions, and digital marketing, all while staying updated with the latest technologies to fuel business growth.
With a portfolio of 270 global clients and 650 completed projects, Atlas Softweb's team of 40 experts ensures a seamless process from start to finish.
Notable clients: Nirma University, St. Xavier's College, Accident Claim Center, Argo Fitness, and News Board App.
2. Influocial Technologies Pvt Ltd
- Location: Mobile10X Building, Govt. Cyberpark, Calicut, 673016, India
- Average Hourly Rate: $24
- Expertise: Local SEO, Public Relations, Web Design, and eCommerce Web Design
Influocial operates with a dynamic structure, enabling seamless adaptation to clients of varying sizes. As a specialized digital marketing agency based in Calicut, they optimize clients' channels to achieve conversions with minimal clicks and hits.
Their services include ranking clients at the top of Google search results, excelling in local SEO, and enhancing lead generation by managing the entire digital ecosystem for brands.
Notable clients: Stanford Global, Zeefind.Com, Lecmo Perfumes, and Bayfin Group.
3. Foomle design
- Location: Kungsgatan 60, Stockholm, 11122, Sweden
- Average Hourly Rate: Inquire
- Expertise: Web Design, Responsive Web Design, Digital Marketing
Foomle Design is a full-service agency specializing in helping businesses grow through digital channels. Their expertise spans many areas, including web development, marketing, SEO, content marketing, search engine advertising, conversion rate optimization, and email marketing. Foomle offers comprehensive solutions tailored to each client's needs.
Notable clients: Oxford Leadership Academy, Terra Advokat, Apex Consulting, and Autogrowth Nordic.
4. Rankin PR
- Location: 2437 Bay Area Blvd., Suite 200, Houston, Texas 77058, United States
- Average Hourly Rate: $125
- Expertise: SEO, Public Relations, Digital Marketing, Reputation Management, and Small Business Digital Marketing
Rankin PR is a specialized public relations and content creation agency that boosts demand for their clients' B2B solutions. With established relationships with trade publication editors in North America and globally, their feature articles have been published over 10,000 times.
They strategically select publications that effectively target their clients' ideal customer base and generate valuable backlinks, resulting in high SERP rankings and traffic to clients' websites.
Notable clients: NASA Tech Briefs, Design World, Aerospace & Defense Technology, and Machine Design.
5. London Web Design Agency
- Location: G30 The Lightbox, 111 Power Road, London, W4 5PY, United Kingdom
- Average Hourly Rate: $85
- Expertise: SEO, Local SEO, Web Design, Logo Design, WordPress Website Design
London Web Design Agency, in operation since 2004, specializes in "focused design and clean code," ensuring the effective implementation of overarching strategies to reach broader audiences. The agency excels in web design and local SEO, helping businesses optimize their web pages for local searches, thereby increasing in-store foot traffic and conversions.
Their SEO best practices encompass Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) optimization, Google Analytics and Search Console setup, and social media strategy.
6. Komdigit
- Location: 30-41 47th St, New York City, New York 11103, United States
- Average Hourly Rate: $100
- Expertise: SEO, Web Design, Digital Marketing, Search Engine Marketing, Digital Advertising, PPC, Social Media Marketing
Komdigit is an experienced engineering agency catering to small- and medium-sized businesses. As a software development company, they strongly emphasize SEO and creating user-friendly and optimized websites for visibility. Their comprehensive SEO services include keyword and competitor research, strategy development, custom content creation, and ongoing campaign monitoring.
With a diverse client base spanning sectors like SaaS, retail, finance, hospitality, and construction, Komdigit offers tailored solutions to meet specific industry needs.
7. WriterArmy
- Location: 2226 Eastlake Ave E, Seattle, Washington 98102, United States
- Average Hourly Rate: $50
- Expertise: SEO Consultants, Google AdWords, Social Media Marketing, Content Marketing, Digital Marketing
WriterArmy provides specialized content services designed to fuel inbound growth. The agency ensures consistent quality with expertise in various industries, dedicated project managers, and quick turnaround times. They work with businesses across all sectors, helping to automate content production and distribution.
Notable clients: RT Services, AfterNow, ACLS, and Shecter Real Estate Law.
8. Tufi Digital Pvt Ltd
- Location: Mohalla Faqeer Ahmad Gul, Paharpur, 29160, Pakistan
- Average Hourly Rate: $30
- Expertise: Small Business Branding, Graphic Design, SEO, Small Business SEO, SEO Consultants and Local SEO
Tufi Digital is a full-service online marketing agency that tailors content and marketing strategies to meet client needs and objectives. Their experts provide a roadmap to align online marketing efforts with business goals, specializing in SEO, PPC, social media, and content marketing. Tufi Digital offers customized solutions for achieving marketing goals.
Notable clients: D Casey, Donald, and iLC
9. Artrivo (PVT) Ltd
- Location: Mahamegawatta Road, Maharagama, 10280, Sri Lanka
- Average Hourly Rate: Inquire
- Expertise: SEO, eCommerce Web Design, Web Design, and Website Development
industry, ensuring optimal security and protection in every aspect and optimized to be search engine friendly.
Artrivo (PVT) Ltd, founded in 2020, is the collaborative effort of three former colleagues with over 20 years of collective experience. Born during the pandemic, the startup aims to deliver innovative, high-performing digital experiences.
The agency specializes in creating fast, future-proof websites that range from simple WordPress designs to complex WooCommerce solutions. They adhere to the latest industry algorithms and technical standards, ensuring optimal security and expert search engine optimization.
Notable clients: The Galle Face Hotel, Ceylon Hotels Corporation, Empire Kenya, and Thurston Teas Australia.
10. Pixen Web Experts
- Location: 61 Pages hill, Muswell hill, London, N10 1EN, United Kingdom
- Average Hourly Rate: $100
- Expertise: Logo Design, SEO, SEO Consultants, and Local SEO
PIXEN Web Experts is one of the fastest-growing agencies in the field. They offer a comprehensive range of services, including strategy formulation, implementation, and consultancy for advertising and marketing.
Specializing in web design, SEO, and logo design, they cover all aspects of digital marketing. Their mission is to help clients attract more customers through beautiful, effective, and conversion-focused websites.
Notable clients: Turkish Airlines, Edit-UK, Lily James, and La Divina
11. Arca Interactive
- Location: 400 Andrews Street, Rochester, New York 14604, United States
- Average Hourly Rate: $100
- Expertise: 360° Digital Services, Graphic Design, Video Production, Web Design, eCommerce Web Design, Web Development, SEO, and PPC.
First founded in 2017 by creative director Justin Arcara, Arca Interactive has over ten years of experience in digital marketing, graphic design and web development.
By establishing a team of talented individuals whose sole mission is to provide Rochester, NY, with the very best web design and online marketing services possible, Arca Interactive works hard to ignite brands, inspire target audiences and create unique experiences.
Whether you’re looking to fine-tune your branding, rank higher on Google via robust SEO strategies, a start-up needing everything from a logo to UI/UX design, or require a website that properly showcases your voice and web hosting, Arca Interactive takes care of all your digital needs.
12. SEO Assistance
- Location: 99 York Street, Los Angeles, California 2000, United States
- Average Hourly Rate: $20
- Expertise: Search Engine Marketing, SEO, Real Estate SEO, Law Firm SEO, Automotive SEO, Small Business SEO, SEO Consultants, Enterprise SEO, eCommerce SEO, Local SEO, and PPC
What sets SEO Assistance apart is its tailored approach to SEO, avoiding one-size-fits-all strategies. The agency ensures rapid growth and long-term success by focusing on your business's unique needs and goals.
SEO Assistance boasts 78:1 ROI, a 14,400% increase in leads, and a 36-fold boost in overall revenue, making them an excellent choice for businesses aiming for rapid and sustainable growth.
Notable clients: SONY, Canva, and Great Learning.
13. SEOAgencyLand
- Location: Lahore, Pakistan, Lahore, 54810, Pakistan
- Average Hourly Rate: $120
- Expertise: Digital Marketing, Legal Digital Marketing, Small Business Digital Marketing, SEO, Real Estate SEO, and Automotive SEO
SEOAgencyLand, the leading SEO agency from Pakistan, offers comprehensive SEO and digital marketing services. With experience across various business sizes, their experts deeply understand Google's algorithm and its changes, and truly know how to elevate your website's ranking.
SEOAgencyLand employs targeted keywords, content optimization, link building, and search engine submissions to ensure a well-rounded strategy. Clients also benefit from a dedicated SEO specialist, detailed online reports, Google Analytics installations, and Google Webmaster Tools.
14. SEOfly
- Location: 66 W Flagler, Suite 900, Miami, Florida 33130, United States
- Average Hourly Rate: $50
- Expertise: SEO, Small Business SEO, SEO Consultants, Enterprise SEO, eCommerce SEO, and Local SEO
SEOfly understands that today's most valuable real estate is the top position on Google's search page. With a mission to elevate businesses in search rankings, they boast an impressive 86% success rate within the first six months of client engagement.
SEOfly offers a custom dashboard for real-time tracking of actions, keywords, and progress. Their SEO strategies are custom-tailored and data-backed, providing clients with a clear roadmap to success.
15. Technoholic Advance Solutions
- Location: Houston, Texas, USA, Houston, Texas 77001, United States
- Average Hourly Rate: Inquire
- Expertise: Web Design, Mobile App Development, Website Development, and Digital Marketing
Founded in 2020, Technoholic is a Texas-based digital agency offering various services, including web design, SEO, mobile app and website development, and digital marketing.
With a team of dedicated professionals, Technoholic takes care of all your digital needs, allowing you to focus on other crucial aspects of your business. Their team includes designers, developers, and strategists, all committed to enhancing your online presence.
Notable clients: SPADE, Flo 4 Law, and Muse Cafe
16. Ernst Media
- Location: 2522 N Proctor St STE 396, Tacoma, Washington 98406, United States
- Average Hourly Rate: $95
- Expertise: Digital Marketing, Boutique Branding, PPC, and eCommerce PPC
Ernst Media is a boutique digital marketing agency with over 15 years of experience in online brand growth. Their SEO services go beyond on-page content, employing white-hat strategies to enhance local and national brand positioning, manage reputation, and build a sustainable sales funnel. In addition to SEO, they offer PPC management and social media marketing services.
Notable clients: Wisdom Labs, DNS Filter, Silvertrac Software, and ReputationX
17. Content Spotlight
- Location: 563 Jessore Road, Calcutta, Kolkata, 700074, India
- Average Hourly Rate: $20
- Expertise: Content Marketing, Local SEO, eCommerce SEO, Digital Marketing
Content Spotlight is an SEO agency focused on creating content that ranks well in search engines. They specialize in producing evergreen content for niches like travel, lifestyle, wellness, environment, science, and education.
Beyond copywriting, the agency offers comprehensive SEO audits covering technical, on-page, and off-page factors to improve website performance. They also provide eCommerce SEO, link building, and PPC services.
Notable clients: The Dreamhoppers, Cash Basic, Luxury Retreats, and Telepresenz
18. Refresh Ideas
- Location: Plot NO 55, 3rd Floor, Shivaji Enclave, Rajouri Garden, New Delhi, 110027, India
- Average Hourly Rate: $50
- Expertise: Digital Strategy, eCommerce Development, eCommerce Web Design, Small Business eCommerce Development, BigCommerce Website Design, WooCommerce Development, eCommerce App Development, Shopify, eCommerce Consulting, eCommerce SEO, eCommerce Marketing, and .Net Development
Founded in 2002, Refresh Ideas is an India-based digital agency focusing on eCommerce digital marketing. Their team of full-stack developers is committed to elevating clients' businesses and achieving their goals. The agency offers end-to-end services, from business strategy to development, ensuring each project meets client expectations.
Notable clients: ACL Education Online, Tantiv4, and Golden Tips Tea
19. Laconic World
- Location: 444, 445 - Nexus 2, Nadiad, 387001, India
- Average Hourly Rate: $15
- Expertise: Video Production, Web Design, Website Development, UI/UX Design, Digital Marketing, SEO, and Data Entry
Established in 2018, Laconic World is another India-based full-service digital marketing and web development agency. The agency prioritizes client success and is committed to helping brands grow through innovative ideas and data-driven strategies.
Laconic World offers various services, including video production, web design, website development, UI/UX design, digital marketing, SEO, and data entry. With a team of experienced professionals, Laconic World focuses on delivering quality results that set your brand apart.
Notable clients: Pet Lovers Centre Singapore, FactoryWorx, and Camelot Infant Care
Collaborating with an SEO Agency
Once you've selected an agency, it's crucial to establish clear expectations before starting any work. Consider the following steps:
- Define your objectives weekly, monthly, or yearly.
- Outline the services you require.
- Establish deadlines for tasks and projects.
- Identify Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
- Decide how often you'll meet to review progress.
Ensuring transparency is critical to avoiding misunderstandings or missed reporting deadlines. Your SEO partner should provide accurate and timely reports. If you encounter vague promises, consider switching agencies.
Updates About Reports
While patience is essential, regularly reviewing quarterly reports is equally important. Set priority metrics and dashboard data expectations and communicate your vision clearly to your SEO partner to avoid micromanagement.
Expert Insights on Outsourcing SEO Services
We asked the agency experts: “What is the one thing businesses should be most aware of when considering outsourcing SEO services?”
Wendy Durham, Owner and Creative Director of Sound Moves Marketing
“When considering outsourcing SEO services, businesses should arm themselves with a basic understanding of key on-page optimization and ongoing SEO strategies to ensure that the vendor's deliverables align with their needs. Some businesses need to focus on foundational SEO, whereas others may be poised for an ongoing SEO content strategy.”
Bryan Philips, Head of Marketing at In Motion Marketing
“When considering outsourcing SEO services, businesses should ensure the agency deeply understands their buyer's behavior. A good fit is an agency that demonstrates comprehension of your buyers' thoughts, purchasing patterns, research habits, and preferred online spaces. This alignment is crucial for tailored, effective SEO strategies.”
Mateo Beltroy, Founder of Triton Digital
“Businesses should be wary of SEO agencies or freelancers guaranteeing traffic or ranking for specific keywords. These things change frequently, and they do not always directly reflect revenue growth, which is ultimately the reason for starting SEO. Be careful of guarantees and vanity metrics.”
Joshua Ahlers, Project Manager for Advirtis
“A common agency challenge is specializing in a few niches, like design or email, but facing diverse client needs, such as SEO or ads — that's the magic of outsourcing. You get a ready-made suite of experts, seamless service expansion, and happy clients, all without deterring from your core focus.”
Outsourcing SEO Services – Key Takeaways
Achieving search engine dominance is essential for brand visibility. While SEO is a long-term investment, its rewards can be significant. Outsourcing to an expert team allows you to focus on other critical aspects of your business, ensuring desired outcomes. However, factors like Google's ever-changing algorithm and market competition can impact results.
Partnering with a professional SEO agency can help you navigate these challenges effectively.
FAQs
Why do businesses need SEO services?
Businesses need SEO services to improve online visibility, attract a targeted audience, and stand out among the vast competition in the digital world. SEO helps a website to rank higher in search engine results for relevant keywords, which leads to increased visibility and more traffic, higher engagement, and increased revenue. Additionally, SEO is a cost-effective way to build brand awareness and credibility over time.
Why should you outsource SEO services?
Outsourcing SEO services provides access to specialized expertise, saves time, and is often more cost-effective than managing SEO in-house. It allows businesses to focus on core activities while experts handle the complexities of SEO.
What is the difference between in-house and outsourcing SEO?
In-house SEO involves using internal resources to manage and implement SEO strategies, while outsourcing SEO delegates these tasks to an external agency.
In-house SEO may offer more control but often has a longer learning curve and can be resource-intensive. Outsourcing provides specialized expertise and allows businesses to focus on core activities but may offer less control over the processes.
Both approaches have pros and cons, and the best choice depends on a company's needs and resources.
