How to Build a Cost-Effective SEO Team: 5 Factors to Consider
Assembling your first SEO team is a vital step in boosting your online presence and driving organic growth. A well-rounded SEO team brings diverse skills that contribute significantly to your business’s visibility and searchability. In this blog post, we’ll outline everything you possibly need to know when finding people to help you with SEO and outreach.
In this article:
1: Your SEO Team Needs
2: The Right Talent
3: Candidate Assessments
4: Payments and Contracts
5: Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
#1: Your SEO Team Needs
Building an effective SEO team is crucial for enhancing your website’s visibility and driving organic traffic. To form a team that meets your business needs, here are the specific tasks you can delegate. It’s also important to choose whether you want a full-time employee or contractor.
SEO Tasks and Projects
Every business’s SEO needs will vary based on its market presence, competition levels, and strategic goals. To build a solid foundation for your SEO efforts, it’s important to recognize and map out the specific tasks that will drive your business forward. Here’s a deeper look into common SEO tasks:
Keyword Research
Keyword research involves finding words and phrases that people type into search engines that are relevant to your business. This essential task doesn’t always need to be done daily. The person you hire can often perform this research once every few weeks or as needed to develop a comprehensive content strategy.
Hiring a freelancer who specializes in keyword research can be a smart move. They can use advanced tools like Google Keyword Planner, Moz, or SEMrush to create a detailed plan that targets the most effective keywords for your audience.
Once the plan is in place, your virtual assistants (VAs) can take over the execution phase through tools like Link Genius, which helps with digital marketing tasks such as securing backlinks and finding guest posting opportunities without the need for extensive in-house teams or deep knowledge of outreach strategies.
Content Creation
This is about creating articles, videos, infographics, and other content that can be shared online. Quality content can engage your audience, keep them on your site longer, and encourage them to return, which signals to search engines that your site is valuable.
Consider hiring content writers and multimedia creators who are well-versed in SEO and have a knack for storytelling. Look for professionals who can produce diverse types of content such as blog posts, videos, and infographics that not only attract but also retain audience interest.
On-Page SEO
On-page SEO involves optimizing the content and structure of your website pages. Well-optimized pages are more likely to rank higher in search engine results, bringing more visitors.
Writers and VAs with on-page SEO knowledge know how to place keywords strategically in titles, headers, and body text; ensure images have alt text; create user-friendly URLs; and use meta tags to describe each page.
Link Building and Outreach
Link building is the process of getting other websites to link back to yours. Links from reputable sites can boost your site’s authority and improve your search ranking.
Look for people with outreach experience, like HARO outreach specialists, who have established connections with other websites and influencers in your industry. They should know how to craft compelling outreach emails that align with your brand’s message and campaign goals. They should also be skilled in negotiating guest posts and securing high-quality backlinks that enhance your site’s credibility and authority.
The quest for an outreach specialist can be challenging, though. The good news is that tools like Link Genius can help your team find the best websites to reach out to. You can also use it to send personalized emails that highlight mutual benefits and potential collaboration ideas.
This way, you can manage large-scale campaigns effectively, without the need for extensive resources, like multiple tools and employees.
Full-Time Employees vs Contractors
When building your SEO team, one of the key decisions you’ll face is whether to hire full-time employees or contractors. Each option has its benefits and challenges, and the best choice depends on your company’s specific needs, budget, and the nature of the projects you plan to undertake.
Full-Time Employees
Pros:
- Commitment: Full-time employees are typically more invested in your company’s success. They’re part of your team and share your long-term goals, which can lead to higher-quality work and greater loyalty.
- Consistency: Having a consistent team means work is done in a cohesive manner, maintaining a uniform style and standard. This can be particularly important in SEO, where strategies need to be adjusted over time based on performance data.
- In-House Expertise: Full-time employees develop a deeper understanding of your company and its challenges. This in-depth knowledge allows them to tailor SEO strategies more effectively to your business’s specific needs.
- Availability: Full-time staff are available during set working hours, making it easier to coordinate projects and handle urgent issues as they arise.
Cons:
- Higher Costs: Employing full-time staff is often more expensive than hiring contractors. Costs include salaries, benefits, taxes, and potentially training and development.
- Less Flexibility: Scaling your workforce up or down is more challenging with full-time employees due to labor laws and potential severance costs.
- Resource Intensive: You’ll need to invest time and resources in recruitment, onboarding, and ongoing management and development of employees.
Contractors
Pros:
- Flexibility: Contractors can be hired on a per-project basis, which gives you the flexibility to scale your SEO efforts up or down without the financial commitments associated with full-time employees.
- Cost-Effective: Hiring contractors can be more cost-effective, especially for specific tasks or short-term projects. You pay for the work you need without the ongoing benefits and other employee-related expenses.
- Specialized Skills: Contractors often bring specialized skills and expertise that your in-house team might lack, which can be particularly useful for specialized SEO tasks that require expert knowledge.
- Quick Start: Contractors are accustomed to jumping into new projects quickly and efficiently, which can reduce onboarding time and accelerate the progress of your SEO initiatives.
Cons:
- Less Oversight: Working with contractors can mean less control over how tasks are performed, as contractors are often juggling multiple clients and may not be available at all times.
- Inconsistency: If you’re hiring different contractors for various tasks, you might face challenges with inconsistency in work quality or strategic direction.
- Security Risks: Contractors have access to sensitive information and systems, which can pose security risks if not properly managed.
Making the Decision
To decide which option is best for your company, consider the following:
- Project Duration and Complexity: For long-term, complex projects, full-time employees may be a better fit due to their potential for deeper engagement with your company’s culture and goals. For shorter, specialized projects, contractors might be the way to go.
- Budget Constraints: If budget is a major concern, contractors offer a way to control costs more tightly.
- Growth Phase of Your Company: If your company is in a growth phase and you anticipate ongoing, expanding SEO needs, investing in full-time staff might be beneficial.
PRO TIP: Consider hiring part-time employees or contractors for tasks that don’t need constant attention, such as keyword research. This approach lets you tap into a pool of professionals who may already have full-time jobs but are looking for additional income.
They often bring specialized skills at a lower cost since they’re looking to supplement their earnings. By starting with just 15 hours a week, you can get high-quality work done while keeping your costs down.
Funds are going to be tight when you first start so you need to build up your client list before you take on any new clients. So accountants, writers, and SEOs should all be contractors and not W-2 employees, Once you get to a comfortable point, you can then bring on a W2 employee. Even better, if you’ve been working with contractors for some time, you can hire one of them directly.
Taylor Scher, SEO Consultant
This strategy not only saves money but also opens up opportunities to work with top talent in the SEO field who might not be available for full-time positions.
#2: The Right Talent
Once you know what you need for your SEO team, it’s time to look for people who can help fill those needs. Consider posting on job boards, talent marketplaces, and looking on social media.
Use Job Boards and Talent Marketplaces
Job boards and talent marketplaces can help you find the best person to be part of your team. Here are five of them:
Onlinejobs.ph
With direct access to a dedicated Filipino workforce, OnlineJobs.ph promotes more stable and long-term employment relationships without the intermediary fees typically associated with hiring platforms.
Pros
- Specializes in Filipino talent, providing access to a large pool of candidates in the Philippines.
- Focus on long-term employment rather than freelance or project-based work.
- No commission or ongoing fees for employers after hiring, reducing long-term costs.
- Broad range of job categories from technical to creative fields.
- Robust verification processes to ensure the reliability of workers.
Cons
- Limited to Filipino workers, which might not suit all business needs or preferences.
- Fewer resources for conflict resolution compared to larger platforms.
- Interface and search functionality might feel less modern than competitors.
- Limited international payment options may complicate salary transactions.
- Potential cultural and time zone differences could pose challenges for international employers.
Pricing (as of April 2024)
FREE | PRO | PREMIUM | |
Price | $0 | $69 per month | $299 per year | $99 per month | $399 per year |
Communicate with Workers | ✓ | ✓ | |
Hire workers | ✓ | ✓ | |
Create up to 3 job posts per month | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Number of Applications | Max 15 applications per Job | Max 200 applications per Job | Max 200 applications per Job |
Job Post Approval | 2 days | Instant | Instant |
View Job Applications | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Use Timeproof (Time-Tracking Software) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Bookmark Workers | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Easypay (Payment Method) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Contact Limit (Applies only to in-site replies) | 75 workers / month | 500 workers / month | |
Read Worker Reviews | ✓ | ✓ | |
Unlimited Background Data Checks | ✓ | ||
Worker Mentoring Service | ✓ |
Upwork
The platform has a comprehensive suite of management tools that facilitate seamless interaction between freelancers and employers. Upwork caters to both one-off projects and ongoing work relationships from freelancers all over the world.
Pros
- Access to a global talent pool across a wide range of skills and industries.
- Robust filtering options to help employers find the best match for their projects.
- Built-in work diary and time-tracking software ensure transparency of freelancers’ working hours.
- Escrow system and dispute resolution services provide security for payments and contract enforcement.
- Allows for both short-term projects and longer-term contracts.
Cons
- Higher fees compared to other platforms, which can reduce freelancer earnings or increase employer costs.
- Can be competitive for new freelancers to find initial projects.
- Variable quality of work, requiring careful selection and vetting by employers.
- Reports of spammy job listings and scams.
- The bidding system may drive down prices for freelancers’ services.
Pricing (as of April 2024)
Posting a job on Upwork is free, but if you want your job post to be featured, which helps attract more freelancers, it costs $29.99.
You’ll also have to pay a 5% processing fee on all payments to freelancers. This fee covers the cost of handling the transaction. For U.S. clients using an automated clearing house (ACH), the fee can be reduced to 3%.
For fixed-price jobs, money is held in an escrow account until the job or a milestone is approved. This setup protects both the client and the freelancer by ensuring that money is only released when the work is satisfactorily completed.
Indeed.com
As an aggregator of a vast range of job listings from multiple sources, Indeed provides a comprehensive search experience for both traditional job seekers and employers globally.
Pros
- Extensive database with a wide variety of job listings across industries globally.
- Free job posting options with the ability to purchase ads to enhance job visibility.
- Resume search function allows employers to seek out potential candidates actively.
- User-friendly interface with efficient job alert systems for job seekers.
- Strong reputation and high traffic volume increase the chances of finding suitable candidates quickly.
Cons
- Paid advertising can become costly if seeking high visibility in competitive fields.
- Primarily caters to traditional employment rather than freelance or contractual work.
- Can receive a high volume of applications, requiring more time to sift through.
- Does not provide mediation or contract enforcement services.
- Some regions and job sectors may have less coverage compared to specialized local sites.
Pricing (as of April 2024)
Just like Upwork, posting a job on Indeed is free. Your listing will then appear in general search results.
You can opt to “sponsor” your job post to generate more views. Sponsored job postings range from $0.10 to $5 per click. The cost-per-click applies to each job seeker who clicks on your post, even if they don’t apply.
Virtualstaff.ph
It’s a streamlined platform dedicated to building and managing Filipino virtual teams. Virtualsfaff.ph offers robust support and compliance with local regulations, tailored for those looking to outsource efficiently.
Pros
- Specializes in providing Filipino virtual staff, tapping into a cost-effective labor market.
- No middleman fees – direct negotiation and hiring between employers and staff.
- Offers a range of hiring options from part-time to full-time and even project-based roles.
- Provides tools for easy communication, hiring, and payment within the platform.
- Emphasizes security and compliance with local labor laws in the Philippines.
Cons
- Focused solely on the Philippine market, which may limit options for employers needing a more diverse talent pool.
- Smaller platform, so the talent pool may not be as vast as larger competitors.
- Limited categories of jobs compared to more comprehensive job boards.
- Interface and user experience may not be as polished as more established platforms.
- Lacks the extensive support services of larger, more global platforms.
Pricing (as of April 2024)
FREE | STANDARD | |
Price | $0 | $99 per month | $297 per year |
Philippines Compliant Contracts | ✓ | |
Hire Staff | ✓ | |
Message Applicants | ✓ | |
Active Job Posts | 1 | Unlimited |
Job Approval Time | 24 Hours | Instant |
Bookmark Workers | ✓ | ✓ |
24/5 Customer Support | ✓ | ✓ |
No Payment Processing Fee | ✓ | |
Free Time Tracking Software | ✓ | |
Send Job Offers (Unlimited) | ✓ | |
AI Talent Match | ✓ | |
AI Job Post Optimization | ✓ |
Fiverr
Fiverr revolutionizes freelance hiring by standardizing offerings into discrete, scalable packages known as “gigs.” This Fiverr feature allows for quick browsing and immediate hires without the need for lengthy negotiations.
Pros
- Low entry barrier for freelancers, which encourages a wide variety of services.
- Services offered as pre-packaged gigs, simplifying the buying process.
- Typically lower cost services compared to other platforms.
- User ratings and reviews provide insights into the quality of work.
- Creative and diverse offerings that are not always available on more traditional job platforms.
Cons
- Quality can vary widely, and the risk of poor execution is higher.
- Limited in-depth vetting processes for freelancers.
- Gigs are pre-defined, offering less customization for specific client needs.
- The platform’s focus on cheaper gigs may incentivize lower-quality work.
- Customer support and dispute resolution can be lacking.
Pricing (as of April 2024)
FREE | UNLIMITED | |
Price | $0 | $24 per month | $216 per year |
Streamlined Business Tools | ✓ | |
Effortless Client Payments | ✓ | |
Fiverr Seller Integrations | ✓ | |
Ready-to-Use Contracts | ✓ | |
Smart, Editable Contracts | ✓ | |
Unlimited Client Management | ✓ | |
Custom-Branded Documents | ✓ | |
360° Business Analytics | ✓ | |
Priority Support | ✓ |
Consider Social Media
Using social media to find employees is a modern strategy that many companies use to enhance their recruiting efforts. Like any method, it comes with its advantages and challenges. Here’s a look at the pros and cons of using social media for hiring your SEO team:
Pros
- Wider Reach: Social media platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter allow you to reach a large and diverse audience. You can advertise job openings to a vast number of potential candidates beyond your local area.
- Cost-Effective: Posting jobs on social media can be less expensive compared to traditional recruitment methods like job boards or employment agencies. You can list your job ads on Facebook Groups and other online forums for free.
- Faster Hiring Process: Social media speeds up the hiring process. You can post a job today and start receiving applications almost immediately.
- Insight into Candidate’s Personality: Profiles on social media can provide more personal insights into candidates, which you might not get from a resume alone. This can help you assess if they’re a good cultural fit for your company.
- Enhanced Employer Branding: Using social media allows you to improve your employer brand by engaging actively with candidates, sharing content about your company culture, and being visible and accessible online.
Cons
- Personal Content: Social media profiles may contain personal content that could influence your perception of a candidate unfairly. Not all information available is relevant or appropriate for employment decisions.
- Risk of Discrimination: There’s a risk of unconscious bias or discrimination based on the personal information visible on social media profiles, such as political views, religion, or family status.
- Privacy Issues: There are potential legal and privacy concerns when accessing information from candidates’ social media profiles. It’s important to understand what is acceptable in terms of privacy laws.
- Information Overload: With the vast amount of data available on social media, it can be time-consuming and challenging to sift through profiles to find suitable candidates.
- Limited to Active Users: Lastly, relying solely on social media for recruitment might limit your candidate pool to only those who are active online, potentially missing out on qualified individuals who aren’t.
Find VAs in Facebook Groups
One of the best places to find a pool of candidates is through Facebook groups. If you’re hesitant about using your personal Facebook profile to join public groups, you can create a Page for your company and use it instead.
Here’s a curated list of possible Facebook groups for remote workers in different countries and their average rates:
Philippines
- Online Filipino Freelancers
- Freelance and Home-based Jobs – Philippines
- Home-based Jobs Philippines
- Onlinejobs.ph Group
Average Hourly Rate: USD 3-5/hour ≈ PHP 170-282/hour
South Africa
Average Hourly Rate: USD 3-4/hour ≈ ZAR 56-74/hour
Kenya
Average Hourly Rate: USD 3-4/hour ≈ KSh 408-520/hour
Nigeria
- Nigeria WordPress/Bloggers Help Connect (Buy And Sell)
- FREELANCERS IN NIGERIA (UPWORK, HUBSTAFF, ANGELIST JOBS)
Average Hourly Rate: USD 1-2/hour ≈ NGN 1,350-2,479/hour
India
Average Hourly Rate: USD 4-5/hour ≈ INR 403-483/hour
Find Writers in Facebook Groups
Your SEO team needs to be well-versed in content creation, so consider looking for writers in Facebook groups as well. Connecting with writers can help enhance your team’s overall capabilities.
Here are some suggested Facebook groups where you can find writers and the average rates (hourly and per word):
Philippines
Average Hourly Rate: USD 3-4/hour ≈ PHP 170-226/hour
Average Per-Word Rate: USD 0.02/word ≈ PHP 1/word
Africa
Average Hourly Rate: USD 3-4/hour ≈ ZAR 56-74/hour
Average Per-Word Rate: USD 0.05/word ≈ ZAR 1/word
Kenya
Average Hourly Rate: USD 3-4/hour ≈ KSh 408-520/hour
Average Per-Word Rate: USD 0.05/word ≈ KSh 6.50/word
Nigeria
Average Hourly Rate: USD 1-2/hour ≈ NGN 1,350-2,479/hour
Average Per-Word Rate: USD 0.016/word ≈ NGN 20/word
India
Average Hourly Rate: USD 4-5/hour ≈ INR 403-483/hour
Average Per-Word Rate: USD 0.02/word ≈ INR 2/word
Create a Compelling Job Ad
Writing a compelling job ad is essential for attracting the right candidates to your business. A well-written ad not only highlights the job opening but also sells your company as a great place to work.
Here are six tips and a job ad template to help you get applications for your SEO team:
Be Clear and Concise
The goal is to communicate the essential information about the job quickly and clearly. Applicants should understand the role and its requirements from a brief read.
Use straightforward language and short sentences. Break the job description into bullet points to highlight key responsibilities.
This helps potential candidates quickly scan the ad and understand the job without getting bogged down by complex terminology or lengthy descriptions.
Highlight Key Benefits
Benefits are a major deciding factor for many job seekers. Clearly outlining what sets your company apart helps attract candidates looking for more than just a paycheck.
List the most attractive benefits first, such as remote work options, health benefits, and retirement plans. Also, mention unique offerings like company retreats, continuing education allowances, or family leave policies.
These details can make your position more appealing to candidates who value these perks.
Include Essential Requirements
This helps filter out candidates who don’t meet the fundamental qualifications, saving time for both you and the applicants.
Differentiate between “must-have” skills and “nice-to-have” skills. This way, candidates can assess their suitability for the role more accurately, which can reduce the number of unqualified applications on your end.
However, make sure that the list of requirements is not so daunting that it discourages potentially qualified candidates from applying.
Showcase Your Company Culture
A strong company culture can be a major attraction for new talent, especially those looking for a place where they fit in and can contribute to shared goals.
Describe what makes your company a unique place to work. Include your mission statement, core values, and any cultural perks (like team outings or community projects). This not only attracts candidates aligned with your values but also promotes your company as a vibrant and engaging place to work.
Use Engaging Language
Dynamic and active language can make the job role come alive. This style of writing can entice candidates by presenting the job as an exciting opportunity.
Use verbs that convey action and achievement, such as “orchestrate,” “design,” “transform,” and “innovate.” Describe key job roles in terms of their impact on the company, like “You will spearhead new marketing strategies to boost market presence” instead of “You will manage the marketing department.”
Provide Application Instructions
Clear instructions remove any confusion about how to apply, making the process straightforward for candidates. State explicitly what documents are needed (e.g., resume, cover letter, portfolio), how they should be submitted, and any other steps involved in the application process.
Include deadlines and preferred formats (PDF, Word document). Offer a point of contact for questions, which helps prevent candidates from abandoning their application due to uncertainties.
Job Ad Templates
Note: Here are sample templates you can modify as you start building your SEO team. Use these as a guide and update the responsibilities and requirements as necessary based on your current needs.
Job Title: SEO Specialist
About Us: At [Your Company Name], we pride ourselves on [briefly describe your company, mentioning your mission or a unique selling proposition, e.g., delivering innovative tech solutions with a focus on sustainable practices]. Join us to be a part of a team that values [mention key company values, e.g., innovation, integrity, and customer satisfaction].
Job Description: We are looking for a dedicated and detail-focused SEO Specialist to help us improve our online presence. This role requires someone who understands how to use search engine optimization (SEO) to attract more visitors to our website. You should be well-organized, good at communicating, and able to handle multiple tasks.
Responsibilities:
Author’s Note: The responsibilities of an SEO manager depends largely on your business needs. We’ve categorized these tasks into beginner, intermediate, and advanced to help you customize the job ad better.
Beginner
- Keyword Research: Use different tools to find important keywords that connect with our target audience.
- Content Optimization: Work with our content team to ensure our website’s content uses the right keywords and follows SEO best practices.
- SEO Audits: Conduct basic SEO audits using checklists to identify obvious errors and issues in website content, such as broken links, missing meta descriptions, or improperly sized images.
Intermediate (Everything in Beginner plus ↓)
- On-Page Optimization: Apply SEO strategies to enhance our website’s visibility by adjusting meta tags, headings, images, and links.
- Link Building: Help develop and follow through on strategies to gain more high-quality links to our website from other reputable sites.
- Competitor Analysis: Examine our competitors’ websites to see what they do well and where we can do better.
Advanced (Everything in Beginner and Intermediate plus ↓)
- Technical SEO: Keep an eye on our website’s performance and find technical problems that might hurt our SEO efforts. You’ll work closely with our tech team to fix these issues quickly.
- Reporting and Analysis: Regularly track our SEO performance using tools and report on key measures like traffic, rankings, and conversions. Use this data to find ways to improve.
Requirements:
- Experience with SEO work, either as a freelancer or full-time employee.
- Deep understanding of SEO, including keyword research, on-page optimization, and building links.
- Know how to use SEO tools like Google Analytics, Google Search Console, SEMrush, Ahrefs, or Moz.
- Excellent at analyzing information and solving problems.
- Great communication skills and can work well with different teams.
- Highly organized and precise, with the ability to handle several projects at once.
- Eager to learn and stay informed about SEO trends.
- Reliable and fast Internet connection.
Benefits:
- Remote work
- Flexible hours
- $6-7/hour
How to Apply: Please send your resume and a cover letter explaining why you are a perfect fit for this position to [insert application email or application link]. Use ‘Application for SEO Specialist’ in your email subject line.
Job Title: SEO Assistant
About Us: At [Your Company Name], we pride ourselves on [briefly describe your company, mentioning your mission or a unique selling proposition, e.g., delivering innovative tech solutions with a focus on sustainable practices]. Join us to be a part of a team that values [mention key company values, e.g., innovation, integrity, and customer satisfaction].
Job Description: We are looking for a dedicated and detail-focused SEO Assistant to help us improve our online presence. This role requires someone willing to learn new things and is able to follow instructions. You should be well-organized, good at communicating, and able to handle multiple tasks.
Responsibilities:
- Help develop engaging and informative content and optimize existing content for search engines.
- Assist in our link-building efforts by helping to identify potential link opportunities and maintaining relationships with external sites. This may involve some outreach and coordination.
- Regularly communicate with other team members and departments to ensure SEO best practices are integrated throughout all content and marketing efforts.
- Manage your tasks efficiently to meet weekly and monthly deadlines, ensuring all SEO efforts are aligned with the company’s goals.
Requirements:
- Available 15-20 hours per week
- Experience with SEO preferred but not required
- Ability to learn new tools
- Must be able to hit weekly/monthly deadlines
- Great communication skills and can work well with different teams
- Highly organized and precise, with the ability to follow clear SOPs
- Reliable and fast Internet connection.
Benefits:
- Remote work
- Flexible hours
- $4/hour
How to Apply: Please send your resume and a cover letter explaining why you are a perfect fit for this position to [insert application email or application link]. Use ‘Application for SEO Assistant’ in your email subject line.
Job Title: Content Writer
About Us: At [Your Company Name], we pride ourselves on [briefly describe your company, mentioning your mission or a unique selling proposition, e.g., delivering innovative tech solutions with a focus on sustainable practices]. Join us to be a part of a team that values [mention key company values, e.g., innovation, integrity, and customer satisfaction].
Job Description: We are looking for a Content Writer to join our SEO team. This role involves researching topics related to our industry, creating well-organized drafts, editing and finalizing blog posts, and using SEO strategies to boost web traffic.
Responsibilities:
- Research topics by combining online sources, interviews, and studies.
- Create organized drafts using WordPress.
- Edit and proofread blog posts before they go live.
- Send articles to editors for feedback and approval.
- Perform basic keyword research and apply SEO techniques to increase web traffic.
Requirements:
- Previous experience as a Content Writer, Copywriter, or similar role.
- A portfolio of published articles.
- Strong research skills using various sources.
- Familiar with web publishing.
- Excellent English writing and editing skills.
- Experienced with Content Management Systems like WordPress.
- Able to meet tight deadlines.
- Reliable and fast Internet connection.
Benefits:
- Remote work
- Flexible hours
- $3-4/hour or $0.02 per word
How to Apply: Please send your resume and a cover letter explaining why you are a perfect fit for this position to [insert application email or application link]. Use ‘Application for Content Writer’ in your email subject line.
Job Title: Outreach Specialist
About Us: At [Your Company Name], we pride ourselves on [briefly describe your company, mentioning your mission or a unique selling proposition, e.g., delivering innovative tech solutions with a focus on sustainable practices]. Join us to be a part of a team that values [mention key company values, e.g., innovation, integrity, and customer satisfaction].
Job Description: We are looking for an outreach specialist to connect our website with other high-quality websites. This role involves finding potential new partners, understanding competitor strategies, and establishing relationships through email outreach. Your keen attention to detail will be essential as you communicate with significant online sources.
Responsibilities:
- Search for and secure backlink opportunities.
- Contact bloggers and website owners to arrange guest post placements.
- Assign article topics to our writers.
- Come up with new content ideas by analyzing competitors and spotting content gaps.
- Assess websites to find potential link-building opportunities.
- Create and implement strategies to gain backlinks that improve our search engine visibility.
- Maintain a healthy backlink profile and analyze competitor backlinks.
- Familiarity with SEO tools like Majestic, Semrush, Ahrefs, Moz, and Buzzstream.
- Carry out additional tasks as needed.
Requirements:
- Open and adaptable attitude with a keen interest in professional development.
- Comfortable using various software systems.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and Google Suite (Gmail, Docs, Sheets).
- Skilled in analyzing data to spot important trends.
- Exceptional attention to detail.
- Organized and independent, capable of executing tasks swiftly.
- Able to manage multiple projects and prioritize effectively.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Reliable and fast Internet connection.
Benefits:
- Remote work
- Flexible hours
- $4-5/hour
How to Apply: Please send your resume and a cover letter explaining why you are a perfect fit for this position to [insert application email or application link]. Use ‘Application for Outreach Specialist’ in your email subject line.
Equip Your Team for Success
Link Genius: The Smart Way to Build Authority
#3: Candidate Assessments
Now, it’s time to check each applicant’s qualifications. Knowing what to look for in potential employees can set the foundation for a successful hiring process.
The right candidates can do more than just fulfill job duties; they can drive innovation and push your company toward its goals. Here’s what you should keep an eye out for to find the best fit for your team.
Screening Resumes
When you’re scanning resumes, it can be overwhelming to decide who might be the best fit for your team. Knowing specific qualities to look for can streamline the process and help you spot standout candidates efficiently. Here’s what to focus on when reviewing resumes:
Long-Term Potential
Look for signs that a candidate is prepared to grow with your company. This might show through a history of increasing responsibility in their previous jobs or long tenures at companies. Resumes that demonstrate commitment to a field or progression within an industry suggest that a candidate might be a long-term asset to your team.
Results-Oriented Experience
Identify candidates who can demonstrate their ability to deliver results. This can be seen in resumes that highlight specific achievements such as increased sales, successful projects, or effective problem-solving. Look for quantifiable accomplishments that relate to the position you’re filling to find candidates who can meet and exceed your expectations.
Relevant Skills
Make sure the candidate’s skills match the needs of the job. Resumes should clearly list relevant skills and experience that align with the job description. Pay attention to specialized skills that could benefit your team immediately.
Nonetheless, First Pier founder Steve Pogson suggests focusing on core skills and versatility rather than niche expertise.
This means hiring individuals who are eager to learn and have a solid grasp of digital marketing basics, then cross-training them in various SEO facets including content creation, link building, and analytics. This approach allows for a smaller, but more flexible and capable team, which is crucial when working on a budget.
Ken Fortney of That Local Pack, a local SEO agency, agrees:
This approach not only keeps overhead low but also fosters a collaborative environment where team members are equipped to handle multiple aspects of SEO, from keyword research to analytics.
Team Collaboration
A resume that includes successful collaborative projects or roles in team environments may indicate a good team player. Look for phrases like “worked with a team” or “collaborated on a project,” which suggest that the candidate performs well in cooperative settings.
Ambition and Growth
Check for signs of ambition and a desire for growth through leadership roles, additional certifications, or advanced training. An ambitious candidate is likely to be a self-starter who is eager to advance and contribute to your company’s success.
Responsiveness and Attention to Detail
A well-organized resume with no errors demonstrates a candidate’s attention to detail and their seriousness about the job application. Also, consider how promptly a candidate follows up on their application if applicable.
Testing Candidates
After you’ve identified qualified candidates, you have two ways to test candidates: using dedicated assessment platforms or doing it yourself through different free tools. Let’s discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the two options.
Using Dedicated Assessment Tools
Platforms like Criteria, Serand, TestDome, and The Hire Talent can help streamline your recruitment process. They offer a single location for all your testing needs but you’ll need to pay for their services.
Serand
This AI-powered platform merges machine learning with best practices from occupational psychology to enhance hiring processes. By leveraging AI, Serand aims to optimize the recruitment process.
Pros
- Claims an 81% increase in retention after one year.
- Reduces time spent on hiring tasks by 53%.
- Increases diversity of hires by 47%.
Cons
- AI-based tools may overlook unique human factors that are important for certain roles.
- Reliance on machine learning requires trust in the algorithm’s fairness and accuracy.
Pricing (as of April 2024)
FREE | PRO | PREMIUM | |
Price | £0 | £499 per month$633 per month | £1,299 per month$1,649 per month |
Number of Candidates Per Year | 200 | 2000 | 3500 |
Cost Per Additional Candidate | £2.50 $3.17 | £2 $2.50 | £1.50 $1.90 |
Number of Users | 1 | 3 | 10 |
Hiring Analytics | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Compare Candidates | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
PDF Exports | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Email and In-App Support | ✓ | ✓ | |
Candidate Benchmarking | ✓ | ✓ | |
PDF Exports | ✓ | ||
Custom Tests | ✓ | ||
Branded Assessments | ✓ | ||
Candidate Feedback | ✓ |
Criteria
The platform offers a comprehensive talent acquisition platform that uses scientific assessments to predict a candidate’s success. Criteria includes tools for assessing, interviewing, and developing talent.
Pros
- Promises a high success rate in hiring with low turnover rates by as much as 65%.
- Helps identify candidates with potential beyond what resumes show.
- Full suite of interviewing and development tools simplifies the process and reduces hiring bias.
Cons
- Can be more expensive due to comprehensive features.
- May require a learning curve to understand all available tools.
Pricing (as of April 2024)
PROFESSIONAL | TALENT SUCCESS SUITE | |
Price | Custom | Custom |
Unlimited Testing Across Full Range of Assessments | ✓ | ✓ |
Candidate Management: Resume Collection, Feedback Reports | ✓ | ✓ |
Real-Time Score Reports and Sample Interview Questions | ✓ | ✓ |
Branded Test Center | ✓ | ✓ |
Standard Applicant Tracking System (ATS) Integrations | ✓ | ✓ |
SSO and MFA | ✓ | ✓ |
Talent Insights | ✓ | |
Assessment Translations | ✓ | |
Video and Live Interviewing | ✓ | |
SMS Invitations and Reminders | ✓ | |
Branded Candidate Summaries | ✓ |
TestDome
This tool provides a screening and interviewing platform that tests over 100 skills through work-sample questions. With this, TestDome ensures candidates can actually perform the job tasks.
Pros
- Work-sample testing has high predictive validity for job performance.
- Cheating is minimized through webcam and screen proctoring.
- Only pay for the candidates you actually test, making it cost-effective.
Cons
- Limited to the tests available, which may not cover all niche skills needed for specific SEO roles.
- Proctoring may deter some candidates who value privacy.
Pricing (as of April 2024)
SINGLE PACK | SUBSCRIPTION | UNLIMITED | |
Price | $150 one-time | $200 per month | $800 per month |
Number of Candidates | 10 (Valid for 4 Months Only) | 25 per month (Unused Candidates Carry Over) | Unlimited |
Cost Per Extra Candidate | $8 | ||
Screening | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Interviews | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Access to 1,300+ Premium Questions | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Advanced Cheating Protection | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Multi-User Account | ✓ | ✓ | |
Custom Questions | ✓ | ✓ | |
Integrations (ATS & API) | ✓ |
TestDome also offers annual plans:
REGULAR | UNLIMITED | |
Price | $2,400 | $9,600 |
Number of Candidates | 300 (Valid for 12 Months) | Unlimited |
Cost Per Extra Candidate | $8 | |
Screening | ✓ | ✓ |
Interviews | ✓ | ✓ |
Access to 1,300+ Premium Questions | ✓ | ✓ |
Advanced Cheating Protection | ✓ | ✓ |
Multi-User Account | ✓ | ✓ |
Custom Questions | ✓ | ✓ |
Integrations (ATS & API) | ✓ | ✓ |
The Hire Talent
This platform focuses on skill and aptitude tests to ensure candidates have the necessary hard skills for the job from day one. Aside from technical evaluations, The Hire Talent offers tests for soft skills, like attention to detail, which balances your assessments.
Pros
- Focuses on hard skills with tests designed to reveal practical abilities.
- Helps eliminate hiring risks associated with resume inaccuracies.
- Offers tools like the RapidRecruit Applicant Tracking System to enhance the hiring process.
Cons
- May not assess soft skills or cultural fit, which are also crucial for team dynamics.
- Specializes in hard skills, which might not fully assess a candidate’s overall potential.
Pricing (as of April 2024)
FREE | PREMIUM | CUSTOMIZE YOUR PLAN | |
Price | $25 per credit | $117 per month | Custom |
Number of Candidates | 10 (Minimum) | 1-25 Employees | Custom |
Applicant Tracking System | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Candidate Scheduling | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Access to Candidate Scorecards | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Performance Management | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Interview Guides | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Background Checks | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
AI Hiring Assistant | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Number of Users | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Market Openings on All Major Job Boards | ✓ | ✓ | |
Test Credits | Unlimited | Unlimited | |
Email & SMS Integration | ✓ | ✓ | |
Dedicated Hiring Coach and Implementor | ✓ | ✓ | |
Fractional Talent Acquisition Expert | ✓ | ||
Enterprise Custom Features | ✓ | ||
Customized Onboarding | ✓ | ||
Reference Checking | Unlimited | ||
Recruitment Marketing Videos | Unlimited | ||
DISC & Behavioral Assessments | Unlimited |
Doing It Yourself
While dedicated assessment platforms are effective, they can also be quite expensive. If you’re looking to save costs but still want to ensure you’re hiring the right people for your SEO team, consider conducting your own assessments. Here’s how you can do it effectively:
Typing Tests
For roles that involve a lot of writing or digital communication, typing speed and accuracy are crucial. Typing tests are simple yet effective ways to measure a candidate’s ability to communicate efficiently.
These tests are especially important for SEO roles where content creation and metadata entry are daily tasks. Here are a few resources where you can direct candidates to take typing tests:
- SpeedTypingOnline.com offers a quick test with options to share results via Facebook, Twitter, Email, or a direct link. This makes it easy for candidates to prove their typing proficiency.
- Ratatype.com provides a certificate upon completion, which can be a formal way to verify a candidate’s typing skills.
- TypingTest.com and TypingPal.com both offer straightforward typing tests that candidates can start immediately. Results can be shared through screenshots, ensuring you can verify their skills.
English Assessment Tests
For SEO tasks, strong English skills are essential. This includes grammar, vocabulary, and writing skills that are crucial for creating effective content and managing website metadata. You can use English assessment tests to gauge a candidate’s language proficiency. Here are a couple of sites offering these tests.
Both EnglishTag.com and ABAEnglish.com provide tests that candidates can take immediately. These tests evaluate upper intermediate to advanced English skills, which are necessary for high-level SEO work.
Interviewing Applicants
Interviewing applicants for a position involves more than just reviewing their resume and work history. It’s about uncovering their soft skills, technical abilities, and overall fit for your company culture. Here are some useful tips and questions you should ask to evaluate both their soft and technical skills effectively.
Interview Tips:
- Prepare in Advance: Know the role’s requirements and the questions you plan to ask. This preparation will help you stay focused on assessing the skills that matter most.
- Create a Comfortable Environment: Make the interviewee feel at ease, which can lead to more open and honest responses.
- Listen Actively: Pay attention not just to the answers given, but also to what might be implied or left unsaid.
- Ask Open-Ended Questions: These questions require more than a yes or no answer and encourage candidates to elaborate on their experiences and skills.
- Focus on Examples: Ask for specific examples demonstrating the candidate’s abilities and problem-solving skills.
- Evaluate Fit: Consider how well the candidate’s values and work style align with your company’s culture.
Top 10 Soft Skills Questions
- Can you cite an example of how well you handled pressure or stressful situations at work?
- Can you describe a project where you took a leadership role? What was the outcome?
- Tell me about a time when you had to adapt quickly to a significant change at work. How did you manage?
- How do you prioritize your work when you have multiple deadlines to meet?
- Describe a situation where you had a conflict with a coworker. How did you resolve it?
- What motivates you to do your best work?
- How do you ensure quality in your work?
- Describe a time when you failed. What did you learn from it?
- How do you handle receiving constructive criticism?
- Can you give an example of how you have contributed to a team project?
Top 10 Technical Skills Questions
- Can you show us where you rank as an SEO or client success examples?
- What SEO tools are you most familiar with, and how have you used them in your past roles?
- How do you stay updated with the latest industry trends and algorithm changes?
- Explain a technical challenge you encountered and how you resolved it.
- What is your approach to keyword research?
- Can you walk us through how you analyze a website’s backlink profile?
- Describe your experience with on-page and off-page SEO strategies.
- How do you measure the success of an SEO campaign?
- What coding languages are you familiar with, and how have they been useful in your SEO tasks?
- Have you ever implemented a new piece of technology or process to improve results in your previous roles? If so, what was it, and what was the impact?
#4: Payments and Contracts
After finding the best candidates, you’ll have to set up payments and contracts for them. You’ll also have to consider whether you’ll be hiring them as a contractor or full-time employee.
Contractors vs. Full-Time Employees
When you’re building your SEO team, one of the big decisions you’ll face is whether to hire contractors or full-time employees. Each choice has different legal and financial implications. Here’s what you need to know to make an informed decision.
Contractors
It’s crucial to classify contractors to avoid legal issues with the IRS correctly. Contractors should control their work processes, work hours, and use their own tools. They’re not covered under most federal employment laws as well, so you’re not required to give them benefits like overtime or minimum wage protections.
Additionally, you don’t withhold taxes for contractors. Instead, they are responsible for paying their own self-employment taxes through IRS Form 1099-MISC.
Generally, when you hire overseas, you’re employing contractors since they’ll be the ones responsible for their taxes and other government-mandated requirements.
Full-Time Employees
Full-time employees are protected by federal employment laws, including minimum wage, overtime pay, unemployment benefits, and workplace safety. Employers must provide certain benefits to employees, such as social security and Medicare taxes, and potentially health insurance if they have more than 50 full-time employees.
You can create a unique setup with foreign team members to protect and promote their welfare, where they can enjoy full-time employee benefits while enjoying the flexibility of remote work.
Key Factors to Consider in a Contractor Contract
When hiring contractors, it’s crucial to have a well-drafted contract in place to protect both your interests and those of the contractor. This document should clearly outline the expectations for both parties and help prevent any legal disputes.
Here are eight essential factors to consider when creating a contractor contract:
1. Scope of Work
Clearly define the work that needs to be done, including the deliverables, deadlines, and any specific requirements. This clarity helps prevent misunderstandings about what is expected from the contractor.
2. Payment Terms
Specify the payment arrangements, such as the total amount to be paid, payment schedule (e.g., upon completion of the project or in milestones), and the method of payment. It’s also important to address how revisions or unexpected work will be charged.
3. Duration of Contract
Include the start and end dates of the contract. If the work is project-based, mention specific milestones and their deadlines. This helps both parties understand the timeline and plan their schedules accordingly.
4. Confidentiality
This clause protects any sensitive information you share with the contractor. It should restrict the contractor from disclosing or using your business’s confidential information for any purpose other than the work they are hired to do.
5. Intellectual Property Rights
This is particularly important if the contractor is creating something that you plan to use commercially. The contract should specify that your business retains ownership of all intellectual property created during the contract term.
6. Termination Conditions
Outline how either party can terminate the contract. This should include the notice period required and any payment that will be due upon termination. Specify any actions or omissions that would constitute a breach of contract and allow for immediate termination.
7. Independent Contractor Status
Clarify that the contractor is an independent contractor and not an employee. This section should affirm that the contractor is responsible for paying their own taxes and insurance.
8. Dispute Resolution
Specify how disputes related to the contract will be resolved. Options might include negotiation, mediation, or arbitration and should specify the jurisdiction under which disputes will be settled.
CONTRACTOR AGREEMENT
This Contractor Agreement (“Agreement”) is made between [Your Company Name], (“Client”), located at [Your Business Address], and [Contractor Name] (“Contractor”), located at [Contractor Address].
1. Scope of Work
- The Contractor agrees to complete the following work: [Describe the work, including any deliverables and deadlines].
2. Payment Terms
- The Client agrees to pay the Contractor a total of [Total Amount] payable upon [describe payment schedule or milestones].
- Payments will be made via [specify payment method].
3. Contract Duration
- This Agreement is effective as of [Start Date] and will end on [End Date or Completion of Work].
4. Confidentiality
- The Contractor agrees to keep all proprietary information provided by the Client confidential and will not disclose it to any third parties.
5. Intellectual Property
- All intellectual property created by the Contractor in connection with this Agreement will be the sole property of the Client.
6. Termination
- Either party may terminate this Agreement by providing [Number] days’ written notice. The Client may terminate immediately for any breach of this Agreement by the Contractor.
7. Independent Contractor Status
- The Contractor is an independent contractor, and nothing in this Agreement shall be construed as creating an employer-employee relationship.
8. Dispute Resolution
- Any disputes under this Agreement will be resolved through arbitration in [Specify Location], under the rules of [Name of Arbitration Association].
9. Miscellaneous
- This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties. No other agreements, promises, or representations, whether verbal or written, are part of this Agreement.
Signed:
[Your Company Name]
By: ___________________________
Name:
Title:
Date:
[Contractor Name]
By: ___________________________
Name:
Title:
Date:
Contract Management Tools to Consider
Contract management tools can help you create, deliver, and sign business documents like contracts quickly. Here are three tools you can choose from:
PandaDoc
PandaDoc is a comprehensive document management platform that cuts document creation time by half. It also boasts of increasing document completion rates by 87%, which means you guarantee your hires.
One downside of PandaDoc, though, is that some users may find the numerous options and features overwhelming. Additionally, you may end up paying more for features that you might not need yet.
Pricing (as of April 2024)
ESSENTIALS | BUSINESS | ENTERPRISE | |
Price(Billed Annually) | $228 | $588 | Custom |
Document Uploads and eSignatures | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Templates | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Real-Time Tracking and Notifications | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Rich Media Drag-and-Drop Document Editor | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Document Analytics | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
24/7 Email and Chat Support | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
CRM Integrations | ✓ | ✓ | |
Content Library | ✓ | ✓ | |
Custom Branding and Themes | ✓ | ✓ | |
Approval Workflows | ✓ | ✓ | |
Forms | ✓ | ✓ | |
Bulk Send | ✓ | ✓ | |
Salesforce Integration | ✓ | ✓ | |
Smart Content | ✓ | ||
Single Sign-On (SSO) | ✓ | ||
Team Workspaces | ✓ | ||
Reports | ✓ | ||
Notary | ✓ | ||
API | ✓ |
DocuSign
DocuSign is another eSignature solution that enables businesses to send, sign, and approve documents digitally from anywhere at any time.
One of DocuSign’s key features is its high security, meeting global standards, including ISO 27001 and PCI DSS so that your business and customer data are protected.
Its cost is higher than other eSignature solutions, though. Moreover, the interface and vast options can be complex for new users or small businesses with straightforward needs.
Pricing (as of April 2024)
PERSONAL | STANDARD | BUSINESS PRO | ENHANCED PLANS | |
Price(Billed Annually) | $120 | $300 per user | $480 per user | Custom |
Send Documents for e-Signature | 5 per month | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Reusable Templates | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
900+ Partner Integrations | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Shared Templates | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Collaborative Commenting | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Customized Branding | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Signer Attachments | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Formulas & Advanced Fields | ✓ | ✓ | ||
PowerForms | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Bulk Send | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Payments | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Manage Data Across Accounts | ✓ | |||
24/7 Live Support | ✓ | |||
Identification and Authentication | ✓ | |||
Compliance | ✓ | |||
Single Sign-On (SSO) | ✓ | |||
Customize with Integrations | ✓ | |||
Multichannel Delivery | ✓ |
Juro
Juro combines creating, negotiating, signing, and managing contracts into one seamless workflow enhanced by artificial intelligence. Its AI capabilities streamline the drafting and review processes, making contract handling more efficient.
As a highly specialized tool, Juro might be more than what is necessary for very small businesses or those with infrequent contract management needs. Also, the AI features, while powerful, require a learning curve to leverage their capabilities fully.
Pricing (as of April 2024)
ESSENTIALS | GROWTH | ENTERPRISE | |
Price | Custom | Custom | Custom |
Number of Users | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Number of Contracts Per Year | 500 | 500+ | Custom |
Workflows | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Templates | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Template Builder | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Contract Forms | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Advanced eSignature | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Contract Repository | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Renewal Reminders | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
AI Assistant | ✓ | ✓ | |
HubSpot Integration | ✓ | ✓ | |
Pipedrive Integration | ✓ | ✓ | |
Zapier Integation | ✓ | ✓ | |
Dedicated CS Manager | ✓ | ✓ | |
REST API & Webhooks | ✓ | ||
Service Level Agreement | ✓ | ||
SAML / SSO (incl. SCIM) | ✓ | ||
Implementation Services | ✓ | ||
SOC 2 Report | ✓ |
Payment Options
Aside from the salary you’ll be providing to potential employees, you should also include the payment service you’ll be using in their contracts to set expectations. Here are four major payment services typically used to send payments to overseas contractors:
Wise
Formerly TransferWise, this platform offers a money transfer service that allows you to send, receive, and manage money internationally with low fees and transparent pricing. Wise is widely used to send payments to contractors in the Philippines and India.
Pros
- Fees are shown upfront; you always know what you’re paying.
- Fees start from as low as 0.43%, making transfers affordable.
- Hold and manage over 40 currencies, which is ideal for global business operations.
Cons
- Free withdrawals only up to $100 per month; additional withdrawals incur a fee.
- Charges like the $9 for a debit card may add up.
Pricing (as of April 2024)
WISE BUSINESS | |
Registration | Free |
Sending Money (Fee Varies by Currency) | From 0.39% |
Withdrawing 100 USD Per Month Per Account | Free |
ATM Fees Over 100 USD Per Month Per Account + USD 1.50 Per Withdrawal | 2% |
Account Funding Transactions | 2% |
Getting the Wise Debit Card (No Subscription Fees) | USD 5 |
Money Conversions (Fee Varies by Currency) | From 0.39% |
Holding Money in Account | Free |
Payoneer
This service provides comprehensive, global payment services that cater to businesses of all sizes. Payoneer helps you pay and manage your international workforce effortlessly.
Pros
- Enables payments and hiring globally without the usual administrative headaches.
- Offers automated payments, invoicing, and compliance services all in one platform.
- Simplify paying up to 150 contractors at once, saving time and reducing errors.
Cons
- Different activities have different fees, which can be confusing to track.
- Free direct bank payments are restricted to certain regions.
Pricing (as of April 2024)
PAYONEER FEES | |
Sending to Payoneer Members | Free |
Sending to Non-Payoneer Members | Up to 3% of Transaction Amount (Minimum Fee May Apply) |
Payments of up to 50,000 for Recipients in the USA, UK, and EU | 1.50 (USD, EUR, GBP) |
Payments of over 50,000 for Recipients in the USA, UK, and EU | 0.5% of Total Withdrawal Amount (USD, EUR, GBP) |
Veem
It provides a payment platform that offers both local and international transaction solutions. Veem is available in the Philippines, South Africa, Kenya, and India. However, you can’t send payments to Nigeria yet.
Pros
- Syncs with major accounting software to streamline payment processes.
- Facilitates payments in multiple countries with a focus on security and transparency.
- Offers tracking of payments in real-time, adding to the convenience.
Cons
- Some transactions, especially international ones, may incur fees.
- Some businesses may find the customization options for payment processes insufficient.
Pricing (as of April 2024)
BASIC | PREMIUM | PLATINUM | |
Price | Free | $19.99 USD / $24.99 CAD | $199.99 USD / $249.99 CAD |
Send, Request, Invoice, and Schedule Payments | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Track Payments | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Instant Deposit | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Automations | ✓ | ✓ | |
Exclusive Pricing (as of April 2024) | ✓ | ✓ | |
QuickBooks Online, Netsuite, and Xero Integrations | ✓ | ✓ | |
Payables and Receivables Management | ✓ | ||
Priority Support | ✓ | ||
1099 Reporting | ✓ |
PayPal
PayPal is a widely recognized payment platform that offers a range of services from online payments to comprehensive business solutions, including the ability to send mass payouts globally. PayPal is widely used in South Africa, Kenya, and Nigeria.
Pros
- Widely trusted, which can enhance customer trust in transactions.
- Compatible with numerous platforms and services, enhancing its usability.
- Offers protection for eligible purchases, which can be a big plus for both buyers and sellers.
Cons
- Transaction fees, especially for international transfers and currency conversions, can be high.
- Users have reported issues with accounts being frozen or holds placed on funds unexpectedly.
Pricing (as of April 2024)
PayPal adds a fee on top of the base exchange rate for currency conversions. This fee can vary depending on the transaction type but typically ranges around 3.5% to 4% above the base rate.
When sending money internationally, PayPal charges a fee that combines a percentage of the transaction amount plus a fixed fee, which depends on the currency used. For example, for payments to the Philippines, you might pay 4.99% + a fixed fee based on the currency.
Using the PayPal Payouts feature to send money to multiple recipients at once can incur fees of up to 2% of the total transaction amount, capped at a maximum fee depending on the recipient’s currency.
Time-Tracking and Productivity
Managing a remote SEO team requires effective tools to track time and productivity. Time-tracking software helps ensure that everyone is accountable for their hours and contributes efficiently. Here are seven tools you can use to keep your team on track:
Traqq
It offers tracking solutions that work with or without Internet connectivity. Traqq also features privacy-conscious options like blurred screenshots.
Pros
- Works online and offline, providing flexibility in various working conditions.
- Focuses on privacy with features such as blurred screenshots.
- Offers detailed productivity reports and timesheet exports.
Cons
- Limited integration with other software.
- Some features are still under development and may lack refinement.
Pricing (as of April 2024)
PREMIUM STARTER | PREMIUM TEAMS | ENTERPRISE | |
Price | $0 | $7 per user per month | Custom Quote |
Number of Seats | 3 | 4-100 | 100+ |
Full Online/Offline Desktop Time Tracker | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
App and Website Monitoring | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Mouse & Keyboard Activity Tracking | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Automated Desktop Screenshots | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Screen Video Recording | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Ethical Tracking | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Custom User and Group Reports | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Export Reports | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Employee Management | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Smart Alerts & Notifications | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Manual Time Addition/Editing | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Personal Account Manager | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Roles and Access Levels | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Harvest
This software integrates time tracking with invoicing and expense management. This makes Harvest a comprehensive tool for managing workflow and finances.
Pros
- Combines invoicing and expense tracking with time tracking.
- Supports a wide range of third-party integrations.
- User-friendly across various devices and platforms.
Cons
- The free tier is limited to one user and two projects.
- Some users experience glitches with the mobile app.
Pricing (as of April 2024)
FREE | PRO | |
Price | $0 | $10.80 per seat per month(Billed annually) |
Number of Seats | 1 | Unlimited |
Number of Projects | 2 | Unlimited |
Time-Tracking | ✓ | ✓ |
Reminders | ✓ | ✓ |
Invoicing | ✓ | ✓ |
Online Payments | ✓ | ✓ |
Reporting | ✓ | ✓ |
Integrations | ✓ | ✓ |
Budgets | ✓ | ✓ |
Cost Tracking | ✓ | ✓ |
Expenses | ✓ | ✓ |
Toggl
It provides an intuitive time tracking interface with features like a Pomodoro timer and detailed reporting. This makes Toggl suitable for individuals and teams.
Pros
- Simple and intuitive user interface.
- Includes a Pomodoro timer for enhanced productivity.
- Flexible enough for both solo freelancers and teams.
Cons
- Advanced features come at a high cost.
- Limited capabilities in the free plan.
Pricing (as of April 2024)
FREE | STARTER | PREMIUM | ENTERPRISE | |
Price | $0 | $9 per user per month | $18 per user per month | Custom Pricing |
Number of Users | 5 | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Unlimited Time Tracking | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Unlimited Clients and Tags | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Exportable Reports | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Web, Mobile, and Desktop Apps | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Automated Time Tracking | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Integrations | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Data Storage | 6 Months | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Billable Rates | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Time Rounding | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Custom Reports | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Project Time Estimates and Alerts | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Tasks (Sub-Projects) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Pre-Populated Project Templates | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Fixed Fee Projects | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Timesheet Approvals | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Team Time Tracking Reminders | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Schedule Report Emails | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Project Forecasts and Analysis | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Team LaborCosts | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Advanced Time Tracking Data Integrity Features | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Single Sign-On (SSO) | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Multiple Workspaces | ✓ | |||
Priority Support | ✓ | |||
Expert Training and Assistance | ✓ | |||
Customizable Solutions | ✓ | |||
Volume Discounts | ✓ |
TMetric
TMetric offers affordable time tracking with features like holiday customization and extensive third-party app integrations.
Pros
- Cost-effective with a good range of features on the free plan.
- Customizable tracking, suitable for holidays and weekends.
- Integrates with over 100 third-party applications.
Cons
- The user interface may not appeal to everyone.
- Some advanced features are locked behind paid plans.
Pricing (as of April 2024)
FREE | PROFESSIONAL | BUSINESS | |
Price | $0 | $5 per user per month | $7 per user per month |
Time Tracking | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Unlimited Projects and Clients | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Reporting | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Timer Button Integrations | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Calendar Integrations | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Billable Rates and Money Tracking | ✓ | ✓ | |
Project Budgeting | ✓ | ✓ | |
Invoicing | ✓ | ✓ | |
Task Management | ✓ | ✓ | |
Activity Levels | ✓ | ✓ | |
Apps and Sites Usage Reports | ✓ | ||
Screenshots | ✓ | ||
Payroll | ✓ | ||
Time-Sync with Jira and QuickBooks | ✓ | ||
Time Off Calendar | ✓ | ||
Work Schedule | ✓ | ||
Team Dashboard | ✓ |
Hubstaff
It provides a comprehensive suite of tracking features including GPS tracking and payroll integration. Hubstaff is ideal for international teams.
Pros
- Offers features like GPS tracking, invoicing, and payroll in one suite.
- Suitable for remote teams and mobile workforces.
- Basic features available on the free plan.
Cons
- Free plan is limited to one user with restricted features.
- Occasional glitches reported by users.
Pricing (as of April 2024)
STARTER | GROW | TEAM | ENTERPRISE | |
Price(2 Seat Minimum, Billed Annually) | $4.99 per user per month | $7.50 per user per month | $10 per user per month | $25 per user per month |
Time Tracking | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Timesheets | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Activity Levels | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Screenshots | Limited | Limited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
App & URL Tracking | Limited | Limited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Reports | Limited | Limited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Payments | Limited | Limited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Clients & Invoices | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Tasks | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Reports | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Integrations | 1 | Unlimited | Unlimited | |
Idle Timeout | ✓ | Auto Discard | Auto Discard | |
Project Budgets | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Work Breaks | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Expenses | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Insights | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Teams | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Overtime | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Time Off & Holidays | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Scheduling & Attendance | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Client Budgets | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Timesheet Approvals | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Daily & Weekly Limits | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Locations | ✓ | |||
Corporate App | ✓ | |||
Higher Limits on Public API | ✓ | |||
Pay by Bank Debit (ACH) | ✓ | |||
HIPAA & SOC-2 Type II Compliance | ✓ | |||
Enterprise Deployment | ✓ | |||
Account Provisioning | ✓ | |||
Single Sign-On | ✓ | |||
Support | Two-Day Email Support SLA | One-Day Email Support SLA | Chat Support, One-Day Email Support SLA | Concierce Setup, Assigned Account Rep, Two-Hour Email Support SLA |
TimeCamp
This is a powerful tool designed to support both time tracking and project management. TimeCamp is suitable for large teams with complex structures.
Pros
- Supports unlimited users and projects even on the free plan.
- Combines time tracking with project management features.
- Useful for managing large teams with detailed needs.
Cons
- Some customer support options are only available with paid plans.
- The interface could be more user-friendly.
Pricing (as of April 2024)
FREE | STARTER | PREMIUM | ULTIMATE | ENTERPRISE | |
Price(Billed Annually) | $0 | $2.99 per user per month | $4.99 per user per month | $7.99 per user per month | $11.99 per user per month |
Timesheets | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Unlimited Projects | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Unlimited Users | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Time Clock Kiosk | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Web, Desktop, & Mobile Apps | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Geofencing | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Invoicing | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Excel Reports Export | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Attendance | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Time-Off | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Unlimited Tasks | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Overtime Tracking | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Billable Time | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Budget & Estimates | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Apps & Websites Tracking | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Management Roles | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Projects Archiving | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
One Integration | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Timesheet Approvals | ✓ | ✓ | |||
Billing Rates | ✓ | ✓ | |||
Expenses | ✓ | ✓ | |||
Pivot Table | ✓ | ✓ | |||
Screenshots | ✓ | ✓ | |||
Unlimited Integrations | ✓ | ✓ | |||
Priority Support and SLA | ✓ | ||||
Self-Hosted Instance | ✓ | ||||
Private Cloud Instance | ✓ | ||||
Custom Integrations | ✓ | ||||
Training & Assistance | ✓ | ||||
Set Up Sessions | ✓ |
Clockify
Clockify allows unlimited users and projects to track time at no cost, with features supporting project management and detailed reporting.
Pros
- Completely free for an unlimited number of users and projects.
- Includes comprehensive project management features.
- Offers extensive customer support and device compatibility.
Cons
- Some advanced features are only available through paid upgrades.
- Reports of time entry issues due to app bugs.
Pricing (as of April 2024)
FREE | BASIC | STANDARD | PRO | ENTERPRISE | |
Price(Billed Annually) | $0 | $3.99 per user per month | $5.49 per user per month | $7.99 per user per month | $11.99 per user per month |
Unlimited Tracking | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Timesheet | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Kiosk | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Auto Tracker | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Calendar | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Apps | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Pomodoro Timer | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Idle Detection & Reminders | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Tracking Integrations | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Hide Time & Pages | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Bulk Edit | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Time Audit | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Custom Export | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Project Templates | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Historical Rates | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Edit Profiles | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Import Time | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Time Off | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Invoicing | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Approval | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Lock Time | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Attendance & Overtime | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Targets & Reminders | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
QuickBooks integration | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Scheduling | ✓ | ✓ | |||
Forecasting | ✓ | ✓ | |||
Expenses | ✓ | ✓ | |||
Labor Cost & Profit | ✓ | ✓ | |||
Budget & Estimates | ✓ | ✓ | |||
Custom Fields | ✓ | ✓ | |||
Single Sign-On (SSO) | ✓ | ||||
Custom Subdomain | ✓ | ||||
Control Accounts | ✓ | ||||
Audit Log | ✓ |
Project Management Apps with Time Trackers
Project management apps with built-in time trackers offer a powerful solution for keeping everything on schedule and under budget. Let’s explore two popular options that can help streamline your workflows.
Click-Up
ClickUp is a versatile project management tool that integrates time tracking directly into its platform. It offers detailed time tracking features including notes, labels, billable time, and comprehensive reports.
However, ClickUp’s wide array of features can be overwhelming. Additionally, some users might prefer a more streamlined, focused time tracking tool without the additional project management features.
Asana
Asana is a project management tool that offers native time tracking capabilities for tasks. It allows you to estimate and record the time spent on tasks, which is crucial for managing workloads and scheduling.
The time-tracking feature is only available on higher-tier plans, though, which might be costly for smaller teams or startups. Plus, Asana’s feature set can be complex, requiring a learning curve to use all available time tracking and reporting capabilities fully.
#5: Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
As you’re building your first SEO team, don’t forget about creating your standard operating procedures (SOPs). SOPs are essential for ensuring that everyone on your team knows exactly what to do and how to do it. This helps maintain quality and consistency across your operations and streamlines training and onboarding processes.
Here’s how you can create effective SOPs and some tools and resources to help you design them:
Creating Effective SOPs
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are detailed, written instructions that describe how to perform a routine activity. They are crucial in a business setting because they ensure that work tasks are performed consistently and correctly. This leads to quality output and performance, while also providing a benchmark for measuring performance.
Tools for Setting Up SOPs
If you’re already dreading all the steps you have to document for each department or task, there are tools to help make the process easier. Here are four of them:
Scribe
This tool helps you quickly create step-by-step guides from your processes. Scribe captures your actions as you work and uses AI to turn them into clear, easy-to-follow instructions.
Pros
- Automatically generates guides as you perform tasks.
- Allows customization, including adding text and branding.
- Easy to share guides through links, embeds, or PDFs.
Cons
- Might oversimplify complex tasks that need detailed explanations.
- Limited to capturing digital processes, so not suitable for manual tasks.
Pricing (as of April 2024)
FREE | PRO | ENTERPRISE | ||
PERSONAL | TEAM | |||
Price(Billed Annually) | $0 | $23 per seat per month(Starts at 1 seat) | $12 per seat per month(Starts at 5 seats) | Custom |
App Compatibility | Web Apps Only | Web, Mobile, & Desktop Apps | Web, Mobile, & Desktop Apps | Web, Mobile, & Desktop Apps |
Quick Customization | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Shareable Link & Embed | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Company Branding | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Edit and Redact Screenshots | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
PDF, HTML, Markdown Export | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Auto Redaction of PII & PHI | ✓ | |||
Enterprise-Grade Data Governance | ✓ | |||
Single Sign-On (SSO) | ✓ | |||
Central User & Document Management | ✓ | |||
Creator, Viewer, & Admin License Types | ✓ |
Tango
It streamlines software training by embedding interactive guides directly into the tools your team uses. As such, Tango facilitates on-the-job learning and assistance.
Pros:
- Integrates training directly into software environments.
- Tracks user engagement and identifies where users struggle.
- Simplifies the creation of training content with automatic screenshot and annotation tools.
Cons:
- May require compatibility with specific software or platforms.
- Could be overkill for teams not heavily reliant on digital workflows.
Pricing (as of April 2024)
FREE | PRO | BUSINESS | ENTERPRISE | |
Price(Billed Annually) | $0 | $20 per user per month | Custom | Custom |
Number of Workflows | 15 | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Capture Feature | Browser Capture | Browser & Desktop Capture | Browser & Desktop Capture | Browser & Desktop Capture |
Exports and Sharing | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Number of Users | Up to 10 per Workspace | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Advanced Viewership Insights | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
SSO, Advanced Workspace Permissions | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Guided Walkthroughs | ✓ | ✓ | ||
PII Redaction | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Standard Onboarding & Training | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Admin Analytics | ✓ | ✓ | ||
SCIM | ✓ | |||
Redlining on MSA/DPA | ✓ | |||
Security Questionnaires | ✓ | |||
Custom Embed Integration | ✓ | |||
Custom Onboarding & Training | ✓ |
Whale
The software helps companies organize and standardize their operational procedures and training materials in one centralized platform. With this, Whale makes starting and running a businesses accessible and manageable.
Pros:
- Centralizes all company knowledge, reducing redundancy and confusion.
- Features like AI Assist and Screen Recorder simplify content creation.
- Offers tools for interactive training such as quizzes and automated flows.
Cons:
- Might be complex to set up for smaller teams or less tech-savvy users.
- Requires ongoing management to keep the content up-to-date.
Pricing (as of April 2024)
FREE | ESSENTIALS | SCALE | ENTERPRISE | |
Price(Billed Annually) | $0 | $6 per user per month | $10 per user per month | Custom |
Number of Seats | Max 5 seats | Min 5 seats | Min 10 seats | Custom |
Content Creation Tools | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
AI Assistant | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Google Drive & OneDrive Integrations | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Browser Extension | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Unlimited Boards | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Branded Workspace | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Groups & Permissions | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Content Tags | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Version History | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Training Flows | ✓ | ✓ | ||
AI Quizzes | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Contextual Suggestions | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Auto Translate | ✓ | ✓ | ||
QR Codes | ✓ | ✓ | ||
HRIS Integrations | ✓ | |||
SCIM | ✓ | |||
API Access | ✓ | |||
Unlimited Workspaces | ✓ | |||
Professional Services | ✓ |
ProcessKit
Designed for client onboarding, ProcessKit paves the way for an organized and repeatable process that enhances client satisfaction and operational scalability. You can use it to create and automate workflows, track client progress, and collaborate seamlessly within your team.
Pros:
- Focuses on making client onboarding a predictable, repeatable process.
- Allows for extensive customization and automation of onboarding tasks.
- Provides clear tracking and task delegation to manage client progress effectively.
Cons:
- Primarily aimed at agencies and service providers, so may not be as relevant for product-based businesses.
- The setup can be complex depending on the diversity of clients and services.
Pricing (as of April 2024)
ProcessKit offers a straightforward Pricing (as of April 2024) structure. For $49 per month, or $468 per year, you get to enjoy unlimited projects, processes, and tasks, providing ample room for managing multiple onboards and internal workflows.
The plan can accommodate up to three team members and unlimited guest users, making it flexible for small to medium-sized teams. If you need to scale your team, however, you’ll need to pay an additional $19 per month for each extra team member.
Implementing SOPs in Your SEO Workflow
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are key to maintaining a consistent and efficient SEO strategy. Here’s a step-by-step guide on integrating SOPs into your daily tasks and long-term projects to ensure your team consistently delivers top-quality SEO results.
1. Define Your SEO Goals
Start by clearly defining what you want to achieve with your SEO efforts. This could include improving keyword rankings, increasing organic traffic, or enhancing site engagement metrics. Having clear goals will help you tailor your SOPs to drive the desired outcomes.
2. Identify Repetitive Tasks
Look at your daily SEO activities and identify tasks that are repetitive and can be standardized. Common tasks might include keyword research, content creation, on-page optimization, and backlink analysis. These are ideal candidates for SOPs.
Additionally, automating repetitive tasks can help you maximize your SEO team’s potential. Charlie Worrall, digital marketing manager of Imaginaire Digital, adds,
Our approach is: if you’re doing an easy task multiple times on a regular basis, then tell us, and let’s get rid of it (or at least minimize the amount of time you have to spend on it. In doing this, you’ll find that you and the team that you have will be able to spend time on things that are much more important and effective.
3. Develop the SOPs
Create detailed SOPs for each repetitive task. Each SOP should include:
- Purpose of the Task: Explain why this task is important for your SEO efforts.
- Tools Required: List any tools or software needed to complete the task.
- Step-by-Step Instructions: Break down the task into clear, actionable steps. Include screenshots or videos if necessary to guide the process.
- Expected Outcomes: Describe what a successful outcome looks like for the task.
4. Train Your Team
Once your SOPs are developed, train your team on them. Make sure everyone understands the steps and follows them consistently. This training should include hands-on practice and a Q&A session to address any uncertainties.
5. Incorporate SOPs into Daily Workflows
Integrate these SOPs into your team’s daily workflows. Use project management tools to assign tasks based on the SOPs and track progress. This ensures everyone knows what needs to be done and how to do it, which can significantly reduce errors and improve efficiency.
6. Review and Optimize
Regularly review the effectiveness of your SOPs. Gather feedback from your team on what’s working and what isn’t. Use this feedback to refine your processes. SEO is an ever-evolving field, and your SOPs should evolve and adapt to new best practices or changes in search engine algorithms.
Creating a High-Performing Team
The key to success lies in finding people who have the skills and passion for continuous growth. While you may not always find individuals with extensive experience, a combination of expertise and a willingness to learn can be a strong foundation for an SEO team.
With the right people and processes in place, your SEO efforts will not only boost your site’s visibility but also contribute to your overall business success.
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