When deciding between hiring an SEO agency or hiring an in-house SEO team, it’s important to consider factors like cost, expertise, flexibility, and control. In today’s digital landscape, a strong SEO strategy is essential for businesses, especially small ones, to compete and gain visibility online.
With the right SEO approach, even small businesses can reach global audiences and stand against larger competitors. The only challenge lies in determining whether to hire in-house SEO experts who offer direct control and tailored strategies or to outsource to an SEO agency that provides a broader range of expertise and resources.
However, both options have their pros and cons. An in-house team offers dedicated focus and internal alignment with your company’s goals, but it may lack the diverse skill set an agency provides. On the other hand, SEO agencies bring a wealth of experience and cutting-edge tools but might not offer the same level of control or customization.
Deciding between the two comes down to your business needs, budget, and long-term goals. So, we’re here to help you choose which hiring option is best for your business.
Hiring an SEO Agency
SEO agencies, such as MediaOne, specialize in helping businesses enhance their online presence through tailored SEO strategies. They bring valuable experience from working across various industries, allowing them to customize approaches based on specific client needs.
Typically, the engagement begins with fundamental audits, keyword research, competitive analysis, and assessments of both technical and local SEO. As the partnership evolves, agencies implement advanced tactics like link-building and off-site SEO. They are usually contracted on a monthly retainer or project basis, which defines the scope of work based on an agreed budget of hours available for SEO tasks.
While both SEO agencies and in-house teams have their strengths, agencies like MediaOne excel in leveraging their extensive expertise to develop effective strategies that significantly boost a business’s online visibility and credibility. Staffed with specialists in areas such as technical SEO, content strategy, and keyword research, these agencies provide a comprehensive suite of services designed to elevate search rankings and drive organic traffic.
Pros of Hiring an SEO Agency
Cost-Effective Service Structure
When you hire an SEO agency, you pay for the specific services provided rather than the expenses associated with building and maintaining an experienced in-house team. This arrangement can be especially beneficial for small businesses, as agencies typically come equipped with the necessary tools and resources.
Access to Specialized Expertise
SEO encompasses various areas, including technical SEO, local SEO, content strategy, and link building. It can be challenging to find one individual who excels in all aspects. By partnering with an agency, you gain access to a diverse team of specialists, each focusing on their respective areas, ensuring your website benefits from comprehensive and effective solutions.
Faster Turnaround Times
Established SEO agencies have a larger pool of professionals, allowing them to complete projects more quickly. Their experience enables them to deliver quality work efficiently, often meeting or exceeding specified deadlines.
Scalability
SEO agencies can easily adjust their services to accommodate your business’s growth. Whether you’re looking to expand your SEO efforts or scale back during slower periods, agencies provide the flexibility to modify services according to your changing needs without the hassle of hiring or laying off staff.
Data-Driven Strategies
Agencies often use advanced tools and analytics to track performance and optimize strategies continuously. They have the resources to conduct in-depth analysis, A/B testing, and other methodologies that allow them to refine your SEO approach over time, ensuring you stay ahead of competitors.
Fresh Perspectives and Innovation
Bringing in an external agency can inject fresh ideas and innovative approaches into your marketing strategy. They often have insights from working with various clients across industries, which can lead to new tactics that may not have been considered internally.
Ongoing Support and Adaptability
SEO is not a one-time effort; it requires continuous monitoring and adjustment. Agencies provide ongoing support, allowing you to adapt to changes in search engine algorithms, industry trends, and consumer behaviour effectively. Their expertise can help you pivot quickly when necessary, maintaining your competitive edge.
Cons of Hiring an SEO Agency
Limited Control Over External Teams
When you engage an SEO agency, you’re placing your online visibility in the hands of a team that you don’t fully control. While some agencies may provide regular updates and maintain open lines of communication, others might deliver their work without detailed explanations. This can lead to misunderstandings or misalignment with your business goals. Choosing a results-driven agency that prioritizes communication and transparency can help mitigate these concerns.
Challenges in Finding a Reliable SEO Agency
Not all SEO agencies deliver reliable services, and selecting the right partner is crucial. It’s important to be cautious of agencies lacking a proven track record of positive client testimonials. Agencies that make unrealistic guarantees or exhibit low online visibility can also be red flags. To find a reputable agency, thorough research is essential, including examining client reviews, case studies, pricing structures, and the availability of customized package solutions.
Inconsistent Quality of Results
While no SEO agency can promise specific outcomes, the quality of services can vary significantly between agencies. Different approaches, tools, and methodologies can lead to varied results. It’s essential to consider factors such as client feedback, case studies, and the agency’s previous successes when evaluating potential partners. Understanding that the effectiveness of SEO efforts may fluctuate can help manage expectations.
Potential for Misalignment with Business Goals
Agencies may have their own processes and priorities, which may not always align perfectly with your business objectives. If there is a lack of clarity in communication or understanding of your brand, the agency’s strategies may not fully resonate with your target audience. Ensuring that both parties are aligned from the outset can help address this issue.
Ongoing Costs and Budget Constraints
Engaging an SEO agency typically involves ongoing costs, which can strain budgets, especially for small businesses. While hiring an agency can be cost-effective compared to building an in-house team, it’s essential to assess whether the ongoing expenses fit within your financial plan. Unexpected costs may also arise as your SEO needs evolve, making it vital to establish clear agreements on services and pricing upfront.
Engaging an SEO agency offers many advantages, including access to a diverse pool of experts and advanced tools necessary for implementing comprehensive SEO strategies. These agencies often boast a proven track record of successfully executing effective SEO campaigns and possess the agility to adapt to evolving business needs. However, one potential drawback is the diminished direct oversight over the technical aspects and strategic direction of your SEO efforts.
An agency’s expertise in technical SEO can significantly enhance your website’s online visibility and improve its rankings on search engine results pages (SERPs). Nonetheless, it’s important for businesses to carefully evaluate any claims made by these agencies, ensuring that transparent communication channels are maintained. This vigilance helps align the agency’s efforts with your business objectives, ultimately leading to measurable outcomes from reputable websites.
What is In-House SEO?
In-house SEO refers to having a dedicated SEO professional or team within your organization responsible for managing your website’s search visibility. Their primary focus is to ensure the site is optimized, filled with SEO-friendly content, regularly audited, and aligned with the latest search engine algorithm updates. Depending on the company’s size and budget, the in-house SEO role may be filled by a single specialist or a full team.
In-house SEO teams typically collaborate closely with the marketing department to align their strategies with broader business goals, ensuring the SEO efforts effectively reach target audiences.
With an in-house team, businesses benefit from greater clarity, hands-on execution, and a deeper understanding of internal processes and customer behaviour. This allows for more tailored and cohesive SEO strategies that resonate with the company’s brand and objectives.
Pros of Hiring an In-House SEO Professional
Quick Strategy Adjustments
An in-house SEO specialist can implement changes swiftly, allowing for immediate responses to evolving SEO needs. Their exclusive focus on your business reduces turnaround time for updates and optimizations.
Dedicated Focus on Your Website
Unlike agencies managing multiple clients, an in-house team dedicates all their attention and resources solely to your business’s SEO strategy, ensuring your goals remain the top priority.
Seamless Office Collaboration
An in-house team fosters close collaboration with other departments, providing transparency and better alignment with overall business goals. This hands-on integration enhances strategic cohesion across the organization.
Tailored Strategies for Your Business
An in-house SEO team has an in-depth understanding of your business’s internal processes, products, and customers, allowing them to craft more personalized and targeted SEO strategies that are fully aligned with your brand’s unique objectives.
Long-term Investment in SEO Knowledge
Having an in-house team allows you to build and retain SEO expertise within your company. Over time, the in-house team gains more in-depth knowledge about your business’s SEO performance and specific industry trends, which can lead to more strategic, long-term growth.
Full Control and Flexibility
With an in-house SEO professional, you maintain full control over SEO decisions, timelines, and priorities. You can quickly shift focus or adapt strategies without waiting for external approvals or coordination, which often happens when outsourcing.
Cons of Hiring an In-House SEO Professional
Costly Hiring and Retention Process
Building an in-house SEO team requires significant investment. Beyond paying salaries, you’ll need to cover recruitment costs, benefits, training, and potentially higher wages to attract skilled professionals. These ongoing expenses can be a strain on your budget, especially for smaller businesses.
Limited Expertise in a Small Tea
A singular SEO specialist or small in-house team may lack the diverse range of expertise that an agency offers. SEO involves various facets, such as technical SEO, content creation, link building, and data analysis. With limited staff, your team may need to juggle multiple roles, which can compromise the depth of their efforts.
Slower Progress Due to Overburdened Staff
Managing all aspects of SEO—such as keyword research, content optimization, and site audits—can overwhelm a small team. With a broad range of responsibilities, tasks may be delayed or de-prioritized, slowing the overall progress of your SEO strategy.
Higher Software and Tool Costs
SEO professionals rely on specialized tools to analyze data, track performance, and identify opportunities. Building an in-house team means covering the cost of these SEO tools and software, which can add up quickly and further increase your budget.
Limited Scalability
Scaling your SEO efforts with an in-house team can be challenging. As your business grows and SEO needs evolve, you may need to hire additional employees or invest in more tools and training, which can slow your ability to adapt quickly.
Risk of Knowledge Gaps
SEO is a constantly changing field, and in-house teams may struggle to stay updated with the latest trends, algorithm changes, or advanced strategies. Without the broader industry exposure that agencies often have, your team might miss out on valuable insights and best practices.
Establishing an in-house SEO team provides the advantage of quickly adapting strategies to align with company objectives, fostering a collaborative environment that enhances clarity and understanding of the SEO process. This direct control allows for tailored strategies that reflect the brand’s unique goals.
However, in-house SEO specialists may face challenges, which can hinder the development of a comprehensive approach but despite these challenges, a dedicated in-house team can deliver consistent and customized execution, making it a valuable asset for companies striving to maintain a strong online presence.
Hiring An SEO Agency Vs Hiring In-House SEO
One of the key differences between in-house SEO professionals and their agency counterparts lies in the experience they bring from working across various industries and trends. Now, let’s explore the fundamental differences between agency SEO and in-house SEO.
Hiring an SEO Agency vs. Hiring In-House SEO: Cost Comparison
An in-house SEO team member typically works around 168 hours each month, based on an average of 8-hour workdays and 21 business days per month. In contrast, an SEO or digital marketing agency is generally retained for about 40 hours per month of strategic work. At first glance, this may appear to be a significantly lower commitment.
To better understand the financial implications, let’s calculate the cost-per-productive hour for an in-house employee versus an agency. Assuming an employee works approximately 138,040 hours annually and takes about 11.5 months of productive work (accounting for two weeks of vacation), the calculation would be as follows:
However, it’s essential to consider that a full-time employee may also experience sick days, engage in non-work activities (like checking social media), and take breaks. Thus, the realistic productive hourly rate for an in-house SEO specialist is closer to $99 per hour.
In contrast, the cost-per-billable hour for an SEO agency is typically around $175. This difference highlights the importance of considering not only the hourly rates but also the overall productivity and output quality when deciding between in-house and agency SEO solutions.
Hiring an SEO Expert Team vs. Hiring an SEO Company: Key Considerations
Choosing between an in-house SEO team and an SEO digital marketing agency involves several important considerations. Each option has its own advantages, so it’s crucial to evaluate your specific needs before making a decision. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
Budget
Building an in-house SEO team can require a significant investment. Upfront costs include recruitment, salaries, and ongoing training, which can strain a budget initially. In contrast, partnering with an SEO agency is typically more cost-effective; you pay only for the services provided, making it a more budget-friendly choice for many businesses.
Talent
SEO agencies often boast a diverse pool of experts in various areas of digital marketing. They hire professionals with extensive experience across different industries and proficiency in various SEO tools. This breadth of talent can be a major advantage, allowing you to leverage a wealth of expertise without the hassle of hiring and managing multiple in-house employees.
Scalability
As your business grows, so too will your SEO needs. SEO agencies are well-equipped to handle this scalability. If you need to upgrade your service package or adjust your strategy, agencies can accommodate these changes seamlessly. This flexibility ensures you have the necessary resources and support to achieve your goals as your business expands.
Responsiveness and Turnaround Time
An in-house team can provide dedicated focus on your SEO efforts, ensuring that all resources are aligned with your business objectives. However, SEO agencies typically work with multiple clients at once, which can affect responsiveness and turnaround times. It’s essential to choose an agency that prioritizes communication and is committed to addressing your needs promptly.
Training
SEO is a dynamic field, requiring ongoing training and skill development to stay competitive. If you opt for an in-house team, providing training opportunities is crucial to keeping your staff updated with the latest industry practices. Alternatively, partnering with an SEO agency often means you benefit from a team of industry professionals who receive regular training and updates, ensuring they are well-versed in current trends and best practices.
Hiring an SEO Agency vs. Hiring In-House SEO: Time & Project Management
Every business’s SEO budget is unique and influenced by various external factors. While some websites may require immediate optimization assistance, all can benefit from routine, ongoing SEO efforts.
Aspect | Hiring an SEO Agency | Hiring In-House SEO |
Time Management | Agencies allow you to offload strategic and operational SEO tasks, saving time and ensuring expertise in best practices. | In-house professionals focus solely on your SEO needs, providing dedicated attention to your website. |
Reporting and Metrics | Agencies typically provide client-facing dashboards showcasing critical metrics (keyword rankings, traffic sources, conversions, etc.). | In-house teams may offer customized reporting but could lack the comprehensive tools agencies have for detailed insights. |
Work Completion | Agencies work within a set number of hours, ensuring efficiency and accountability. They have incentives to deliver value for your investment. | In-house teams might get bogged down by daily operations, which can hinder timely execution of broader strategies. |
Budget Transparency | Selecting the right agency ensures clarity on budget allocation and project progress. At MediaOne, transparency and goal setting are prioritized. | In-house budgets can be more straightforward, but costs may include salaries, benefits, and ongoing training. |
Focus and Strategy | Agencies bring diverse expertise and industry insights, aligning SEO strategies with long-term business goals. | In-house professionals may provide tailored strategies but might overlook larger industry trends due to daily operational demands. |
Hiring an SEO Agency vs. Hiring In-House SEO: Tools & Access
SEO strategies require the right tools and resources to thrive. Different sets of instruments are often employed by SEO agencies and in-house teams, each offering distinct benefits. Agencies typically have access to a more extensive collection of sophisticated tools, whereas in-house groups can adopt cost-efficient solutions that better match their specific business goals.
Aspect | SEO Agency | In-House SEO Team |
Tool Access | Wide access to a variety of advanced SEO tools like SEMRush, Ahrefs, Moz, and more, enabling comprehensive analysis and reporting. | Limited access to a few fundamental tools (e.g., Google Analytics, Google Search Console), which may not cover all necessary SEO aspects. |
Cost of Tools | Costs are distributed across multiple clients, allowing access to high-end tools without significant individual expense. | May incur high costs for premium tools; budget constraints can limit access to effective solutions. |
Tool Sophistication | Utilizes advanced, AI-powered platforms (e.g., seoClarity, Surfer) that provide extensive analysis and content enhancement insights. | Primarily relies on basic tools for monitoring performance and conducting audits, which may lack advanced features. |
Resource Management | Agencies can allocate tools and resources to meet diverse client needs and adapt quickly to varying strategies. | Limited flexibility; in-house teams may struggle with resource allocation as needs evolve. |
Insights and Reporting | Provides detailed insights, benchmarking, and competitive analysis, leading to well-informed SEO strategies. | Insights may be less comprehensive due to limited tool access; reporting focuses mainly on essential metrics. |
Scalability | Easily scalable as businesses grow; can adjust tool access and strategy according to changing needs. | Scalability can be challenging, especially if resource access is constrained by budget or team size. |
While SEO agencies provide extensive access to sophisticated tools and resources that can enhance your SEO strategy, in-house teams can still effectively manage their SEO efforts using more cost-efficient solutions. The choice between the two depends on your company’s specific needs, budget, and capacity for resource allocation.
Hiring an SEO Agency vs. Hiring In-House SEO: Long-Term vs. Short-Term Goals in SEO
Aspect | SEO Agency | In-House SEO Team |
Focus | Primarily drives long-term growth and brand visibility. | Focuses on immediate operational needs and quick results. |
Strategy Alignment | Aligns SEO initiatives with broader company objectives, ensuring long-term sustainability. | Adjusts strategies based on real-time performance insights to meet immediate demands. |
Goal Setting | Establishes specific, measurable, and actionable long-term targets that contribute to comprehensive SEO strategies. | Concentrates on achieving short-term goals, such as optimizing current content or launching PPC campaigns. |
Adaptability | Utilizes specialized knowledge and tools to navigate industry changes, fortifying long-term strategic plans. | Quickly implements changes in response to market shifts, enhancing responsiveness to immediate challenges. |
Value Creation | Committed to generating lasting value and success, focusing on ongoing digital marketing momentum. | Excels in addressing urgent SEO needs, enabling rapid adjustments to strategy for swift impact. |
Resource Allocation | Can allocate resources effectively to support long-term initiatives across multiple clients. | Limited to internal resources, which may restrict scalability for long-term projects. |
Choosing between an SEO agency and an in-house team requires careful consideration of your business’s long-term and short-term objectives. Agencies are well-suited for fostering sustainable growth and aligning SEO efforts with overarching company goals, while in-house teams excel in swiftly addressing urgent needs and adapting strategies in real-time. Balancing both approaches can help achieve a comprehensive and effective SEO strategy tailored to your organization’s unique needs.
Which Hiring Option Is Best For Your Business?
The decision between hiring an SEO agency and hiring an in-house team ultimately depends on your business’s unique needs. SEO agencies offer a breadth of experience and advanced tools, making them well-suited for complex SEO strategies and long-term success. They can navigate changes in the digital landscape, ensuring sustainable growth and enhancing brand visibility.
On the other hand, in-house teams provide a more personal approach, allowing for tailored and consistent SEO strategies that align closely with your company’s specific goals. They can quickly respond to immediate needs and make adjustments based on the latest performance insights.
When considering your options, take into account factors such as cost, expertise, flexibility, tools, and control. Agencies typically excel in providing specialized knowledge and resources, while in-house teams focus on delivering consistent efforts that meet immediate business objectives.
Lastly, your decision should reflect your business’s specific requirements and resources. By carefully weighing the pros and cons of each approach, you can choose the path that best enhances your online presence and drives success.
If you’re curious about what an SEO agency partner like MediaOne can do for you, contact us today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I benefit from both hiring an SEO agency and having in-house SEO?
Absolutely! A hybrid approach can leverage the strengths of both options. An in-house team can focus on the brand’s specific needs, while an agency can provide additional expertise and resources for broader campaigns and complex projects.
Is it possible to switch from in-house SEO to an agency later on?
Yes, many businesses transition from in-house SEO to hiring an agency as their needs evolve. This switch can provide fresh insights and strategies, especially when facing more complex SEO challenges that require specialized knowledge.
Are there specific scenarios where one option is clearly better than the other?
Yes, hiring an SEO agency is often preferable for startups or businesses needing rapid scalability and diverse expertise without long-term commitments. In contrast, larger companies with consistent SEO needs and the budget for training may find in-house SEO more effective for long-term brand alignment.
How do SEO agencies stay updated with industry changes compared to in-house teams?
SEO agencies typically invest in ongoing education, industry conferences, and tools to stay informed about trends and algorithm updates. In-house teams may have less exposure to such resources, making it essential for them to prioritize continuous learning and professional development.
Can hiring an SEO agency be a temporary solution?
Yes, many businesses use SEO agencies as a temporary solution during specific campaigns, product launches, or when internal resources are stretched. This approach allows businesses to access specialized expertise without long-term commitments while evaluating their ongoing SEO needs.