Finding new SEO clients can be tough, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re a freelancer or an agency, getting more SEO clients comes down to a mix of smart marketing, networking, and delivering results that speak for themselves. Let’s break it down step by step.
Specialize in Specific SEO areas to Stand Out
If you’re trying to serve everyone, you’re serving no one. The best SEO agencies and consultants specialize in a specific industry or service. Instead of just offering general SEO, focus on areas like local SEO for small businesses, e-commerce SEO, or SEO for industries like healthcare, law, or real estate. When you position yourself as an expert in a niche, clients are more likely to trust you and seek out your services.
Make LinkedIn and Social Media Work for You
Your next SEO client is probably scrolling through LinkedIn right now. But if your profile looks like a ghost town, they’ll never know you exist. Optimize your profile with a clear headline and description of what you do. Share valuable content about SEO trends, client success stories, and industry insights. Engage with potential clients by commenting on their posts and offering insights. The more visible you are, the more likely potential clients will see you as an authority.
Another powerful strategy is LinkedIn outreach. Send personalized connection requests and messages—not spammy sales pitches. A thoughtful message referencing their business and offering a useful SEO tip can go a long way in starting a conversation.
Offer Free SEO Audits—But Be Strategic
A free SEO audit is a great way to showcase your expertise, but don’t just give away generic reports. Personalize them by identifying a few key issues on a prospect’s site, providing quick wins they can implement, and offering a discovery call to discuss solutions. This builds trust and increases the chances of them hiring you.
Referrals and Testimonials: Let Your SEO Clients Sell for You
Happy clients are your best salespeople. If you’ve done great work, don’t be afraid to ask for a testimonial or referral. Offering a referral discount—like 10% off their next month of service—can encourage them to spread the word. Another powerful strategy is creating case studies that showcase how you’ve helped businesses grow with SEO. And don’t forget LinkedIn recommendations—these build credibility and act as social proof.
Tap Into Online Marketplaces and Communities
There are platforms where businesses actively search for SEO experts. Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and PeoplePerHour offer quick projects, while Clutch and Credo cater to agency-level clients. Facebook and Reddit groups are also great places to network and find job leads. Engage in discussions, provide value, and establish yourself as an expert before making a pitch.
Prove Your Skills to Your SEO Clients
If you’re selling SEO but your own website doesn’t rank, that’s a red flag. Show prospects that you know what you’re doing by optimizing your site for local or niche keywords. Publish SEO case studies, blogs, and use schema markup to stand out in search results. The better your site ranks, the easier it becomes to attract inbound leads.
Use Webinars and Workshops to Attract Leads
Teaching is selling. Hosting webinars on SEO best practices attracts potential clients who need help. Partner with local business groups or industry associations and offer a free training session on topics like “SEO Mistakes That Kill Your Rankings.” Capture leads by requiring email sign-ups, and follow up with attendees afterward to convert them into paying clients.
Build Partnerships with Web Designers and Agencies
Web designers and marketing agencies often need SEO services but don’t offer them in-house. Build relationships with these professionals so they refer clients to you. Offering white-label SEO services to agencies is another great way to get a steady stream of work without having to market yourself directly.
Run Smart Ads for Quick Wins
If you have the budget, use paid ads to get leads. Running Google Ads for high-intent keywords like “SEO services near me” can bring in clients who are actively looking for help. Facebook and LinkedIn Ads also work well, especially if you target business owners who need SEO but don’t know where to start.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The key to getting more SEO clients is consistency. Whether it’s outreach, networking, or content marketing, stick with it, and your client base will grow. Ready to land your next SEO client? Start implementing these strategies today!
