When To Hire SEO Experts: Agency VS Freelancer (2024)

You’re here because you are:

• Looking to improve your SEO game
• And you’re willing to pay for it
• But you don’t know who to pick — an agency or a freelancer

We’re here to help, without wasting your time.

Let’s check it out.

When to choose: Agency vs Freelancer (SEO)

The short and careless answer of other guides is: “Choose whichever’s best for your needs”.

But we’re here to break it down.

1. Agency if…

• You need a wide range of expertise: Agencies typically have teams of specialists in various aspects of SEO, from technical SEO to content writing and link building.
• You have a large or complex project: Agencies have the resources to handle bigger and more intricate projects more efficiently.

2. Freelancer if…

• You have a smaller budget: Freelancers typically charge less than agencies due to lower overhead costs.
• You need a personalized approach: Freelancers often offer more one-on-one attention and can tailor their services to your specific needs.

Comparison: SEO Freelancer vs Agency

Feature	Freelancer	Agency
Budget	Lower cost	Higher cost
Personalization	High	Lower
Project scope	Well-defined projects	Large or complex projects
Flexibility	High	Lower
Expertise	Limited	Wide range
Ongoing support	Lower	Higher
In-house expertise	Required	Not required

This is just a table comparing the basic features of SEO freelancers and agencies.

Let’s go deeper.

Pros & Cons: Agency vs Freelancer for SEO

Choosing between an SEO freelancer and an agency can be tricky, as both offer distinct advantages and disadvantages.

We’re here to help you explore them.

1. Agency

Pros:

• Cost-effective: Freelancers typically ten dto be cheaper.
• Personalized attention: You get a direct line of communication and one-on-one project focus.
• Flexibility: Freelancers can often adapt to your specific needs and timelines.
• Specialized expertise: You can find freelancers with deep expertise in a particular area of SEO.
• No agency contracts: No lock-in periods or long-term commitments.

Cons:

• Limited expertise: Freelancers may not have access to the same range of skills and resources as agencies.
• Project management burden: You’re responsible for communication, task delegation, and progress tracking.
• Less predictability: Freelancers may have fluctuating schedules or unexpected delays.
• Scaling restrictions: Freelancers may struggle to handle rapid growth or large projects.
• Reporting may be less formal: Informal or ad-hoc reports instead of detailed agency reports.

2. Freelancer

Pros:

• Wide range of expertise: Access to teams of specialists in various SEO domains for a holistic approach.
• Advanced resources: Agencies have access to powerful SEO tools, software, and research platforms.
• Dedicated project management: Account managers handle communication, reporting, and ensure successful execution.
• Regular communication and reporting: Frequent reports and meetings keep you informed of progress and results.
• Scalability: Agencies can easily adjust resources and expertise to meet your growing SEO needs.
• Formalized processes: Established processes ensure consistent quality and reliable outcomes.

Cons:

• Higher cost: Agency fees are typically higher than hiring individual freelancers.
• Less flexibility: Changes to project scope or timelines may be difficult or require additional fees.
• Less personal touch: You may work with different team members, potentially diluting the personal connection.
• Agency contracts: May require long-term commitments or lock-in periods.
• Less hands-on control: Less direct influence over project decisions compared to working with a freelancer.

The Bottom Line

Choose an SEO agency for a comprehensive, multi-skilled team and faster results, or a freelancer for budget-friendliness and personalized attention.

By considering these pros and cons, you can make an informed decision about whether to partner with an SEO freelancer or an agency to best meet your specific needs and budget.