For years, businesses have relied on search engine optimisation (SEO) to improve their online visibility, attract more customers and increase sales.
But not all businesses have the expertise or time to manage SEO in-house. That’s where an SEO consultant comes in.
An SEO consultant is a professional who analyses, strategises and applies SEO techniques to help businesses rank higher in search engine results.
Whether you are a business owner looking to hire an SEO consultant or a prospective SEO consultant, this guide has everything you need to know.
What does an SEO consultant do?
The primary role of an SEO consultant is to optimise a website so that it ranks higher on search engines such as Google and Bing. Their tasks typically include:
- Keyword research: Identifying high-traffic and relevant keywords to target in content.
- Technical SEO audits: Ensuring websites are structured for search engine success.
- On-Page SEO Optimisation: Optimising titles, meta descriptions, images and internal links.
- Content strategy: Creating and optimising content for better rankings.
- Link building: Acquiring high-quality backlinks to increase domain authority.
- Analytics & Reporting: Monitor website performance and adjust strategies accordingly.
SEO consultant job description
The role of an SEO Consultant varies depending on the company or client, but typically includes
- Conducting website audits and keyword research
- Developing SEO strategies for websites
- Implementing on-page and off-page SEO best practices
- Working with content writers and developers
- Monitoring rankings and adjusting strategies
- Staying up to date with Google algorithm changes
Many SEO consultants work as freelancers, while others are employed by digital marketing agencies or companies in-house.
SEO consultant salaries: how much do they earn?
Salaries for SEO consultants vary depending on experience, location and expertise.
Here’s a breakdown:
💰Entry level (0-2 years): $40,000 – $60,000 per year
💰Mid-level (3-5 years): $60,000 – $90,000 per year
💰Senior SEO Consultant (5+ years): $90,000 – $150,000+ per year
Freelance SEO consultants charge between $50 and $300 per hour, depending on their expertise and the complexity of the project.
How to become an SEO consultant?
If you’re interested in becoming an SEO consultant, here are the steps to get started:
1️⃣ Learn SEO Basics – Learn the basics of SEO, including keyword research, technical SEO and link building.
2️⃣ Gain Practical Experience – Get started with personal projects, internships or freelance gigs.
3️⃣ Get Certified – Certifications such as Google Analytics or HubSpot SEO can boost your credibility.
4️⃣ Build a Portfolio – Showcase successful SEO projects with before and after case studies.
5️⃣ Stay Up to Date – SEO trends are constantly evolving, so continuous learning is essential.
6️⃣ Network & Promote Yourself – Join SEO communities, attend events and use LinkedIn to connect with potential clients.
How to find a good SEO consultant?
When hiring an SEO consultant, consider these factors:
- Experience & Expertise – Do they have a proven track record in your industry?
- Client Testimonials & Case Studies – Do they show measurable SEO improvements?
- SEO Strategy – Are they using ethical, white-hat SEO techniques?
- Pricing & Transparency – Do they offer clear pricing and realistic expectations?
Pro Tip: Ask potential consultants, “How do you measure SEO success?” If they only mention rankings without considering traffic, conversions, or ROI, reconsider hiring them.
What is SEO consulting?
SEO consulting is the provision of expert advice and tailored strategies to businesses looking to improve their search engine presence. This can be a one-off project or ongoing support.
Common SEO consulting services include:
- SEO audits & strategy development
- Website optimisation
- Content marketing & blogging
- Local SEO & Google My Business Optimisation
- Link Building & Authority Building
- SEO Training & Workshops
How much do SEO consultants charge?
The cost of SEO consultancy varies depending on the expertise and scope of the project:
- Hourly rate: $50 – $300 per hour
- Monthly retainer: $500 – $10,000 per month
- Project-based pricing: $1,000 – $50,000+ per project
Be wary of consultants who promise “instant results” – SEO is a long-term strategy that requires consistent effort.
Final thoughts
Businesses looking to expand online may find that hiring an SEO professional changes everything. It’s important to understand the responsibilities, skills and earning potential of an SEO consultant, whether you want to work with one or become one yourself.
