Episode 2 - Why I Dislike Working with SEO Clients

In this episode the original title was "Why I Hate to Work with SEO Clients" and I thought it was too harsh and implied the fault was all on the client-side. But the reason that it is hard to work with clients is not only their possible jaded history with other SEO agencies, but how powerful the message is from Google that implies that a business owner or corporation need only read the latest blog or attend the latest training session and that's all you need.

The truth is Google is a business that makes its revenue on the search-side of the company by selling ads. Period. 

The search feature that we use all day, every day, is not how Google earns its money. How could they thread a needle where they share all that you need to know to rank on page 1 and still have a market for ads? Perhaps if a business were somewhat successful in the search results but not completely, they might give up the fight and just pay for ads.

Enter the professional SEO.

There is an impossible dynamic between a business not trusting that they are getting value for their investment from an SEO AND the perceived message that Google can be the source of all SEO knowledge and anyone who tells you differently is not telling the truth, makes it difficult for most SEOs. 

I know most businesses think if they can't do it themselves, then their only option is to go to paid ads. Paid ads have their place. But you will never get the ROI (return on investment) from ads when compared to when you invest in yourself - your digital properties. I believe with all my heart that working with an ethical SEO agency is possible.  There's straight talk with businesses and for the SEO's who desire to partner with them. 

Carolyn Holzman can be found on Linkedin and contacted through her media company website - AmericanWayMedia.com

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