SEO stands for “search engine optimization,” and it’s an essential part of our everyday lives. That’s because it links our inquiries with the best information on the world wide web. So, an SEO freelancer can make big bucks if they know what they’re doing.
What is an SEO freelancer?
Freelancers are people who work for themselves and make their own hours. Those who write or manage SEO help to simplify the search process. Their main duty consists of optimizing search engine rankings through the clever use of keywords. However, those keywords must always be related to the website itself. Thus, successful freelancers can write natural-sounding verbiage regardless of the subject matter.
How much money can you make writing SEO?
SEO salaries range depending on several factors, including these:
- The pay rate for each assignment
- The frequency of assignments needed
- The difficulty of the task required
However, on average, most freelance SEO writers make a livable wage, even if they only work part-time. According to a survey by the Search Engine Journal, certified professionals in search engine optimization can make up to $119 per hour. That’s nearly $82,000 a year. Still, it all depends on who you work for, what they pay, and how much experience you have.
3 steps to becoming a successful SEO freelancer
On the surface, search engine optimization may look intimidating. After all, it requires keen attention to detail, an analytical mind, and creative writing abilities. But it also requires these three steps to get started:
#1. Perfect Your Skills
First, take some time to build up your SEO abilities. Get to know what other writers are doing, and start working on your vocabulary too. While you’re at it, try to become more analytical in how you think, plan, and communicate. Pretty soon, every word you use will count for or against your ranking.
#2. Get Certified in SEO
People who complete an SEO training course will receive an official certification when they graduate. The certificate demonstrates an individual’s skills but also allows them to land higher-paying jobs in the field. For legit credentials, take courses through reputable online sources such as LinkedIn or use special learning software like MOZ.
#3. Look for Freelancer Gigs
More people work remotely these days than ever before, meaning opportunity is ripe for the right candidate. Websites like Fiverr, Upwork, and People Per Hour are great places to begin a lucrative SEO career from home. Use each platform to highlight your skills and experience, then name each project’s terms to complete them at a steady pace.
Give yourself an edge by learning the lingo of any industry you approach for work.
Pros and cons of being an SEO freelancer
No job is perfect, least of all this one. So, here’s what you need to know before going through all the trouble of getting certified and hired as an SEO freelancer:
PROS
- Make your own hours
- Set agreeable project terms
- Enhance your research skills
- Earn money from home
CONS
- High pay not guaranteed by all clients
- Difficult work with complex keywords
- Long-term projects may be sparse
The good news is that getting certified is relatively easy and might even be free through the right source.