How should I evaluate if we need a full SEO retainer or a one-off audit?
To decide between a full SEO retainer and a one-off audit, consider your ongoing needs, budget, and resources. A retainer is ideal for continuous optimisation and long-term growth, while a one-off audit suits those needing immediate insights and quick fixes. Evaluate your current SEO performance, goals, and internal capabilities to make the best choice.
Why Your SEO Needs Matter
SEO isn’t just a buzzword. It’s the backbone of your online visibility. Whether you’re running a B2B tech company or a local coffee shop, how you appear in search results impacts your traffic and, ultimately, your bottom line.
Take a SaaS company as an example. They’re launching a new product and want to ensure it gets the spotlight it deserves. They could opt for a one-off audit to quickly identify and fix any glaring SEO issues before launch. However, if they’re planning to roll out features regularly, a retainer with a search engine optimisation expert might be more beneficial for sustained growth.
How to Decide: Steps to Evaluate
Before you commit, you need to assess your situation. Here’s a simple checklist to guide you:
- Current SEO Performance: Are you satisfied with your current rankings and traffic? If not, a full retainer might be necessary to address ongoing issues.
- Budget Considerations: A one-off audit is usually less expensive upfront. However, if you need continuous support, a retainer could be more cost-effective in the long run.
- Internal Resources: Do you have an in-house team capable of implementing SEO recommendations? If not, a retainer may provide the ongoing support you need.
- Goals and Timeline: If you’re aiming for a quick boost or have a specific campaign in mind, a one-off audit might suffice. For long-term goals, a retainer is better suited.
Once you’ve gone through these points, you’ll have a clearer picture of what suits your business best. Remember, SEO is not a one-size-fits-all solution.
The Coffee Chat Opinion
Here’s the thing. SEO isn’t static. It’s like a garden. You can’t just plant it and walk away. You need to water it, prune it, and sometimes, give it a bit of fertilizer. If you’re looking for quick wins, an audit can give you that initial push. But if you’re in it for the long haul, a retainer is like having a gardener who knows your plants inside out.
Think of it this way: a one-off audit is like getting a health check-up. It tells you what’s wrong and what to fix. A retainer, on the other hand, is like having a personal trainer. They keep you on track, adjust your workouts, and help you reach your fitness goals.
So, what’s your next move?