How to Hire the Best SEO Strategist

The Philippines has become a top outsourcing destination for SEO talent, offering a large pool of skilled professionals at competitive rates compared to the US and other Western countries. Filipino SEO specialists are known for their technical skills, proficiency in English, and strong work ethic.

However, not all SEO strategists are created equal. To find the best person for the job, you need a clear hiring strategy. Here's how to hire a top-notch SEO strategist in the Philippines:

1. Define Your SEO Needs

Before starting your search, gain clarity on your specific SEO requirements:

• What are your target keywords and geographic markets?
• Do you need on-page optimization, link building, content creation, technical SEO, or all of the above?
• What are your current SEO challenges and goals?
• Will this be a one-time project or ongoing work?

Defining your needs upfront will help you write a targeted job description, set clear expectations, and attract the most qualified candidates for the role. Be sure to include the job responsibilities, required skills, nice-to-haves, and an overview of your company.

2. Source Candidates

There are several channels to source SEO strategists in the Philippines:

• Job boards: Websites like Indeed and Monster have a good selection of Filipino SEO professionals. Post your job ad and review applications.

• LinkedIn: Search for SEO strategists based in the Philippines and view their profiles, skills, and endorsements. You can also post your job opening.

• Facebook Groups: Join Facebook Groups for Filipino digital marketers and post your job ad. Some relevant groups include "SEO Philippines" and "Digital Marketing Philippines."
• Freelance marketplaces: Upwork, Freelancer.com, and People Per Hour allow you to post your project and receive bids from interested freelancers.
• Starfish: We're different than a traditional staffing company or recruiter. We work closely with each of our vetted experts to ensure they will help your business grow with skills to solve your most challening problems, saving you significant time and effort compared to recruiting and training on your own.

3. Evaluate SEO Skills

A great SEO strategist should possess the following skills and knowledge:

Technical Skills:

• Proven experience developing and executing SEO strategies
• In-depth knowledge of Google ranking factors and algorithms
• Expertise in keyword research, on-page optimization, link building, and technical SEO
• Proficient with SEO tools like Google Analytics, Search Console, SEMrush, Ahrefs, etc.
• Strong understanding of content marketing, social media, PPC, and other digital marketing channels that impact SEO

Soft Skills:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Detail-oriented and highly organized
• Self-directed and proactive
• Adapts well to change and stays up-to-date with industry trends

Look for proof of results and impact in their portfolio or case studies. Have them walk you through their SEO process and how they would approach your website. An SEO skills test can also help you evaluate their abilities.

4. Assess Industry Knowledge

SEO best practices vary by industry. Ideally, look for a strategist with experience in your industry or niche. They will be familiar with your target keywords, competitors, link building opportunities, and content gaps. Ask about their experience with similar websites and their initial ideas for your SEO strategy.

5. Consider Other Factors

Take into account the applicant's availability and preferred communication channels to ensure a good working relationship. Can they accommodate your time zone and collaboration needs? Verify that they have reliable internet and electricity to minimize work disruptions.

Hiring a talented SEO strategist in the Philippines is a smart investment to grow your organic search traffic and revenue.