Should You Invest in SEO?
In This Newsletter
?? Should You Invest in SEO?
?? Sweet Spot Guest Chair - LuAnn Nigara on Business Distinction
?? Tool of the Week in the Organization Category
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As much as I love SEO, it's not for everyone.
Some businesses it just doesn't make sense for.
I wouldn't recommend it for a nail salon because of the nature of their services; quick decision service. Most people don't spend days or months deciding they want to get their nails done or where to go.
Here are some things I'd like you to consider when you're thinking about whether or not SEO makes sense for your goals.
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Who Actually Needs SEO?
1. Businesses Operating Beyond Their Local Area
Web designers, copywriters, and graphic designers thrive with SEO because their potential clients could be anywhere. These businesses benefit from content that showcases their expertise and processes, helping them stand out in a broader market.
2. Businesses with Longer Sales Cycles
Consider a business coach offering a $5,000 six-month program. Their potential clients need multiple touch points before making a decision. They'll likely read blog posts, case studies, and service pages before reaching out.
3. Specialized Expertise or High-Ticket Service Providers
Financial advisors specializing in estate planning are a perfect example. Their clients need to verify expertise before investing and often require extensive research to understand the service value.
4. Services That Clients Research Before Buying
Wedding photographers charging $5,000+ per event fit this category perfectly. Their clients compare multiple options, review portfolios, and read about different approaches before making a choice.
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5 Signs You're Ready for SEO
If you recognize your business in any of these signs, you might be ready to implement SEO…
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DIY vs. Professional Help
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DIY Time Investment
Content Creation - 4-6 hours minimum monthly (can increase to 10-20 hours weekly for aggressive strategies)
Keyword Research - 2-3 hours initially, with reviews every 6 months to adjust for changing audience behavior
Analytics Review - 1-2 hours monthly for tracking and strategy adjustments
Learning Curve - Expect 3-6 months minimum to get comfortable
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DIY might be your path if you…
Professional Help Investment
Strategy Meetings - 1-2 hours monthly
Content Review - 1-2 hours monthly
Budget - $1,500-$4,000 monthly depending on service level and provider
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Pro Tip: If someone offers SEO services for $100, run. Fast. They're likely using questionable tactics that could harm your website traffic.
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Consider professional help if you…
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Before investing, establish how you'll measure success…
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The Takeaway
SEO isn't about quick wins – it's about building a sustainable, compounding marketing method for consistent leads.
Take time to consider if it aligns with your business goals and growth strategy.
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?? Need SEO clarity? Comment with your biggest challenge.
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?? For more specific advice, book a $150 clarity call—no strings attached. DM me to learn more.
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See you next week! Barb
Website Marketing Consultant
I help biz owners create and implement true and simple marketing strategies.
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?? THIS WEEK IN THE SMALL BUSINESS SWEET SPOT ?
Beyond Blending In - The LuAnn Nigara Approach to Business Distinction (Bonus EP45)
My favorite snippet from LuAnn in this interview is her Snickers analogy to a distinct business. I'm not even gonna summarize it. You'll have to hear it yourself around the :25 minute mark.
In this episode of Small Business Sweet Spot, LuAnn Nigara , a powerhouse in the creative business world, shares her years of entrepreneurial experience as the host of the "A Well-Designed Business" podcast, author of multiple best-selling books, and co-owner of an award-winning window treatment retailer. Our conversation covered what it truly means when LuAnn says "excellence is a decision" and how service-based business owners can stand out in saturated markets.
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?? TOOL OF THE WEEK ?
Online bookmark solution. Save using tags to find things later. Super helpful for read later, examples you like, etc.?
*I am a tool geek. I love me a useful tool. I personally use, have used or review every tool I recommend. I am an affiliate of some and earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
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