If you’re in the SEO game, chances are you’ve thought about starting your own agency. You’ve mastered the art of local rankings, optimized countless websites, and maybe—just maybe—you’ve hit that ceiling working for someone else. Well, you’re not alone.
According to a recent survey, 43% of SEOs are planning to start their own agency, and it’s not just a pipe dream. It’s a growing trend. But before you jump ship and start printing business cards, let’s talk about what’s really driving these numbers, and whether you should be one of them.
Why 43% of SEOs Want Their Own Agency
The appeal is obvious: freedom, flexibility, and full control. Who wouldn’t want to call their own shots and set their own hours? One survey respondent, Julien Brandt, Founder & CEO of Organik SEO, nailed it when he said:
“I wanted to provide transparent, honest SEO to small businesses and change the perception of a notoriously spammy industry. I had a deep desire to build something bigger than myself.”
Does that sound like you? Do you have a “why” that drives you beyond a paycheck? If so, that’s a solid foundation to get started.
What’s Holding the Other 57% Back?
Before you quit your day job, it’s important to understand why 37% of SEOs have no plans to start an agency, and another 21% are still on the fence. There are real obstacles in the way, and they’re not trivial.
Financial Uncertainty: Starting a business means taking on risk, and let’s be real—SEO can be volatile. Algorithm updates, like Google’s Pigeon, Panda, or Penguin, can hit your business hard. Add that to the economic challenges of running a startup, and the risks start stacking up.
Income Variability: Sure, you can scale your earnings, but only 32% of SEOs earn more than $1,000 a month per client. Building a client base that consistently pays well can take time, and not everyone has the runway for that.
Career Path Stability: Some SEOs simply prefer the stability of working within an established agency. They can climb the ladder without the stress of running the entire ship. No shame in that game.
Is Starting an Agency Right for You?
So, how do you know if you're cut out for agency life?
If the thought of owning a business gives you the rush of excitement that overrides the fear of risk, you’re on the right track. Running an agency isn’t for the faint of heart, but if you're persistent and have a solid strategy, the rewards can be enormous.
One thing we’ve learned from those who have made the leap is this: Persistence is non-negotiable. Julien Brandt put it best:
“For anyone seriously considering making the transition from consultant to a full-fledged agency, persistence is the one thing you cannot do without.”
Ready to Take the Leap?
If you’re part of the 43%, it’s time to stop dreaming and start planning. At GMB Fox, we specialize in helping digital marketers grow from solo SEOs to full-blown agency owners. We’ve got the tools, insights, and strategies you need to make the leap.
In a digital world where visibility is everything, GMB Fox ensures your business isn’t just online—it’s the first choice customers make. Let us handle the complexities of digital marketing, so you can focus on what truly matters: growing your business.
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