Finding SEO clients might feel like hunting unicorns at first. But don’t worry! It’s not magic. You just need a plan, some hustle, and a bit of patience. Let’s dive into the fun world of client-hunting!
First things first: Let people know what you do!
If no one knows you provide SEO services, no one will hire you. Start simple:
- Tell your friends and family
- Update your social media bios
- Create a basic website with your services
- Be loud (in a nice way!) online
You’re not bragging. You’re building your personal brand.
Next step: Pick a niche! Not required, but it helps.
Do you like working with dentists? Lawyers? Pet groomers? A niche helps people remember you.
Imagine saying: “I help yoga studios get found on Google.”
Sounds good, right?
Now comes the real action: Start looking for clients!
There are many ways to do it. Here are some that actually work:
1. Join Facebook Groups
There are tons of groups where small business owners hang out. Look for groups like “Local Business Owners USA” or “Small Business Support.”
- Be helpful
- Answer questions
- DM when appropriate
Don’t spam. Be cool. Be helpful. People notice.
2. Use LinkedIn Like a Pro
LinkedIn isn’t just for resumes. It’s where real business happens.
- Connect with business owners
- Post tips and wins
- Send polite intro messages
LinkedIn allows you to build trust faster. And trust = clients.
3. Check Job Boards
Believe it or not, SEO gigs pop up on freelance boards every day.
- Upwork
- PeoplePerHour
- Fiverr (yep, really!)
- SEOClerk
Start with quick, small jobs to build reviews. Then raise your rates!
4. Pitch Local Businesses Directly
Walk outside. Look at the local bakery, gym, salon. If they have a bad website or no SEO, that’s your opening.
Send a friendly email. Offer a free audit. Show them how you can help.
Everyone loves free advice if it grows their income.
5. Partner with Web Designers
Web designers have clients that need SEO. And SEO folks often need web designers. Match made in heaven!
Connect with designers. Offer to team up. You both win.
6. Offer Free Audits
This one works like magic. Use free tools like:
- Ubersuggest
- Screaming Frog
- Google PageSpeed Insights
Create a short, useful audit. Email it to a prospect. Say something like:
“Hey Sarah, I took 5 minutes to look at your site. Thought you’d want this quick SEO audit I put together. Let me know if you’d like to chat about it!”
Generic emails get ignored. Personal ones get replies.
7. Share Your Wins
Did you help someone get more traffic? Share a screenshot. Post testimonials. Show what you can do!
People trust proof. Wins speak louder than words.
8. Don’t Be Pushy
No one likes a pushy salesperson. Be patient. Some clients take weeks to sign up.
Follow up gently. Remind them you’re there when they’re ready.
Bonus Tip: Focus on Relationships
Your current clients can bring you more clients.
- Ask for referrals
- Offer discounts for friend referrals
- Keep your clients happy
Happy clients = free marketing!
Final thoughts: Finding SEO clients is part marketing, part networking, and all about being helpful.
You don’t need to be a celebrity SEO expert. Just be someone who shows up, solves problems, and delivers great results.
Now go on—your future clients are waiting!
