In the bustling world of digital marketing, local SEO is where the action’s at. It’s a cornerstone for businesses aiming to capture attention in their communities and beyond. The Local SEO Industry Survey 2016 provides a treasure trove of insights that shed light on where the industry is headed, the challenges professionals face, and how businesses can leverage these findings to stay ahead of the game. Let’s dive into the numbers and trends that could shape your strategy.
Key Findings that Matter
First off, let's talk dollars. On average, local SEOs are raking in about $70,000 per year, and they earn roughly $1,358 per customer per month. That’s some solid revenue potential. However, don’t let those numbers fool you; the landscape is evolving, and so are the challenges. A whopping 87% of SEOs have a minimum monthly retainer of $500 or less, which speaks to the competitive pricing that many agencies have to navigate.
Moreover, while 86% of SEOs are optimistic about growth over the next year, only 33% think 2017 will be a great year for SEO—down from 47% in 2015. Matthew Hunt from Powered By Search sums this up well: “[It’s] scary that 10% don’t know their revenue.” This highlights a crucial point: knowledge is power in the SEO game, and those in the dark about their metrics are already at a disadvantage.
A Changing Industry
The survey also underscores a shift in how businesses are approaching SEO. More companies are bringing SEO in-house, as 13% of respondents identified as in-house SEOs, compared to 7% in 2013. This trend reflects a growing recognition of SEO's importance, leading businesses to invest in dedicated resources. As Casey Meraz of Juris Digital noted, “There are so many moving parts, and agencies that are trying to do too much with too little typically see varying results.” It’s clear that focusing on fewer clients allows for a more tailored, effective approach.
In terms of revenue, 21% of respondents reported company revenues exceeding $1 million, while the median revenue sits around $150,000. This range highlights the diversity in the industry, with various players finding success in different niches.
Effective Customer Acquisition
So, how are SEOs winning new clients? According to the survey, word of mouth reigns supreme, with 77% citing it as the most effective method for attracting new business. Following closely, 53% point to SEO itself as a key driver. This goes to show that, despite the complexities of the digital marketing landscape, traditional networking and a solid online presence still hold tremendous value.
Conclusion
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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