Ever tried fishing in a crowded pond? That’s what the online world feels like! Now, imagine having an expert by your side, helping you catch the biggest fish with the perfect bait. That expert? An SEO content writer. They’re the ones crafting those catchy pieces that have you clicking and reading more often than you’d like to admit.
But why all this buzz about them? Simple. It’s more than just putting words on a page. It’s about making those words count in a sea of endless information. Curious about what makes some content pop while others fade? Stick around. I’m here to help you widen your knowledge of what sets the best content apart. Shall we?
The Role of an SEO Content Writer
Ever found yourself at a professional gathering, striking up a conversation with someone seemingly intriguing? “So, what’s your line of work?” you might ask. Suppose they respond with, “I’m an SEO writer.” You nod politely, yet your mind whirls with genuine intrigue. What nuances lie behind that title?
Here’s a more insightful snapshot:
- Digital Strategist: Beyond crafting words, they strategize to meet readers’ interests and search engine algorithms.
- Audience Tuner: They have an innate ability to resonate with target audiences, ensuring content is both relevant and engaging.
- Keyword Maestro: Understanding and leveraging the power of keywords is second nature to them, making content highly discoverable.
- Trend Spotter: They stay updated with evolving SEO trends, ensuring content remains fresh and competitive.
In the bustling digital marketplace, their expertise ensures your content isn’t just another voice—it’s the one that gets heard.
MUST READ: How to Determine Search Intent (You Need To Know This!)
Key Skills to Look for in an SEO Content Writer
Choosing the right candidate is akin to selecting a master craftsman. The digital space is their canvas, and their tools? A mix of words, keywords, and strategies. So, which skills should shine through to ensure your content both ranks and resonates?
🎯 Technical SEO expertise. It’s not enough to write well. An ideal content writer deeply understands search engine algorithms to create content that engages readers and optimized for search engines.
🎯 Research acumen. The digital world is constantly in flux. A top-tier writer stays updated, delivering authoritative and current content.
🎯 Narrative craft. Facts tell, but stories sell. A skilled writer knows how to transform information into compelling narratives, keeping readers hooked from beginning to end.
🎯 Adaptability. With myriad platforms and ever-changing SEO landscapes, the best writers can shift their style and tone seamlessly, ensuring each piece of content feels right at home.
🎯 Originality. Amidst the vast expanse of online content, originality is the beacon that makes your brand shine, offering a fresh perspective in a sea of repetition.
🎯 Analytical approach. Great content isn’t set in stone. It’s monitored, tweaked, and refined. An effective writer analyzes feedback and performance metrics, ensuring that content continues to hit its mark over time.
The Cost of Hiring an SEO Content Writer in the Philippines
The salary of a content writer in the Philippines varies based on experience, location, and the company they work for. Here’s a categorized breakdown of the average salaries:
Beginner
- Annual Average: Entry-level writers earn approximately ₱247,703 annually.
- Monthly Average: Based on different company data, entry-level content writer salaries can be roughly estimated at around ₱20,000 to ₱25,000 ($350-$450) in Manila.
Intermediate
- Annual Average: Writers with 1-4 years of experience make around ₱299,221 annually.
- Monthly Average: Intermediate writers can expect an average monthly salary of ₱25,000 to ₱40,000 ($350-$700), with some variations depending on the company and location.
Experienced Content Writer or Senior Content Writer
- Annual Average: For experienced writers, the annual salary can go up to ₱540,000.
- Monthly Average: In major business hubs like Manila, experienced writers earn as much as ₱45,000 to ₱75,000 ($800 – $1300) per month.
Freelance Content Writer
Freelance content writers often have more varied income ranges. Some freelancers charge per word or per project. Rates can range from PHP 1 to PHP 3 ($0.018 – $0.055) or more per word, depending on the complexity and specialization.
For instance, on platforms like Upwork, SEO writers charge anywhere between $15 to $35 per hour. Comparatively, US-based SEO agencies typically charge rates between $100 to $250 per hour, while those outside the US can be hired for $10 to $50 per hour.
The US average full-time content writer’s salary stands at $48,715. Freelancers, however, have diverse pricing models with hourly rates ranging from a mere $6.72 to a whopping $282.72, influenced by niche specialization and article length. Regardless of the pricing model you choose, the central focus should be on the ROI of the content and its alignment with your brand’s voice and SEO strategy.
Remember, the best approach is to balance cost, quality, and expertise to ensure you get a stellar content strategy and the desired results.
🚩Red Flags to Avoid When Hiring
Here are the top 5 red flags to watch out for precisely when hiring an SEO content writer:
Lack of SEO Knowledge
Suppose a content writer claims to specialize in SEO but needs help explaining basic concepts like keyword research, on-page optimization, or backlink strategies. In that case, it strongly indicates they might need to be more skilled.
Generic or Untailored Portfolios
An SEO content writer should be able to provide samples of their work that display both their writing prowess and their understanding of SEO. This could be a concern if they only provide generic samples or none at all.
Inconsistent Job History or Lack of Experience
Particularly for a specialized role like SEO content writing, a history of jumping from job to job or having very short stints at different places without a clear progression can be a warning sign.
Reluctance to Edit or Revise
SEO content writing often requires revisions based on changing algorithms or client feedback. If a writer is defensive about their work and unwilling to make adjustments, it can signal potential collaboration issues.
Suspiciously Low Rates
While everyone loves a bargain, rates that seem too good to be true may indicate a lack of experience or quality. In content writing, you often get what you pay for. It’s essential to prioritize quality over cost, as content is a long-term investment for SEO.
When hiring an SEO content writer, conducting a trial assignment to gauge their skills in real time is also beneficial. This provides an opportunity to assess both the quality of their work and their understanding of SEO requirements.
-Brian Barcenilla
Tips for Collaborating with Your Content Writer
Here are some simplified tips for effective collaboration:
- Align Goals. Establish a shared understanding of content and SEO objectives.
- Use Briefs. Utilize detailed content briefs that align with project goals and clarify SEO requirements.
- Share Tools & Feedback. Optimize content using tools, then review and edit collaboratively. Feedback is crucial for refinement.
- Educate Teams. Ensure both teams understand the basics of each other’s roles. This promotes empathy and smoother collaborations.
- Use SEO-Friendly Formats. Incorporate diverse content types like lists, guides, and infographics that are both engaging and SEO-friendly.
- Avoid Keyword Stuffing. Prioritize reader experience and strategically place keywords.
- Stay Updated. SEO trends evolve; always stay updated to ensure content remains relevant and optimized.
Craft Your Brand’s Voice with BNB Services
Getting the right SEO content writer isn’t just about hiring someone who can string words together—it’s about finding someone who gets your brand and can shout about it from the digital rooftops. When you’re diving into the hiring pool, especially in places like the Philippines, it’s not just about the price tag. It’s also about dodging those unexpected hiccups that can throw a wrench in your plans.
Now, don’t worry if you’re wondering, “Where do I even start?”. At BNB Services, I’ve done the legwork and know the terrain. Let’s chat and make sure your content isn’t just good but stellar. Drop by my website, and let’s get the ball rolling.
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