There is a plethora of freelance web developers, copywriters, bloggers, and designers out there. These individuals are experts at what they do and often charge less than full time SEO companies.

Have you opted to use individual freelancers instead of an SEO consulting company for your many SEO tasks? While this can be a viable method of initiating your online marketing, it’s fair to say that there are some drawbacks you should be mindful of.

Pro: Using freelancers can be more affordable

It’s true, paying a freelancer will work out about 25% cheaper than hiring an SEO company. Because freelancers work out their hourly rate according to their work speed, you get charged less per job you assign.

Cons: Sometimes, you get what you pay for

Unless you have a good relationship with a trusted freelancer, you may play hit and miss with the one you choose. It’s never advisable to go for the cheapest freelancer that bids for your project. Rather take one that has proven results and testimonials to back him or her up.

Pro: Freelancers often specialise in the particular area you need

When you take on a freelancer, you can be sure that their core speciality is the task you need done. A professional blogger can push out 20 blogs within a week. A web developer that’s skilled at Drupal, can really make things happen with your website.

Con: The freelancer you use may not always be aware of your entire strategy

A freelance copywriter who doesn’t understand the website strategy, may struggle to understand exactly what you want. There’ll be a lack of synchronicity between all your freelanced components if they are done by remote people who don’t communicate with each other.

Another factor to keep in mind is that you will have to manage all tasks in addition to usual company management. This is immeasurably time consuming and can lead to much frustration. Having six freelancers on staff may be more of a challenge than having one SEO consultant handling everything on your behalf.

Pro: Cultivating a trusting relationship with an expert has long term benefits

Once you find a good, reliable, affordable freelancer, hold on to them! These individuals are few and far between. Once you have one, the road to SEO success will be a smooth one.

Con: Finding a good freelancer takes lots of time and much trial and error

The process you will go through to eventually find the right person for the task can be very frustrating. You will end up spending money on unworthy freelancers until you finally find the right one. Some are lucky enough to find the right freelancer the first time round, but this is more the exception than the rule.

Pro: You don’t need to pay a full time salary

One benefit that draws many in is the fact that you only pay for the hours worked. No lunch breaks, no bonuses, no staff issues, and no using up your coffee, water, and electricity.

Con: You may struggle to get hold of your freelancer if they are not on a retainer

The problem with this approach is that your freelancer’s freedom may put you at a disadvantage when you need him or her most. If your freelancer is on holiday, or busy with another project—when your website goes down, who you gonna call?

 

At the end of the day, it’s up to you as a business manager to weigh up these factors. Make your own choice based on the way you want your SEO done.