Freelance SEO Consultant & Independent SEO Consultant
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Freelance SEO Consultant

Full Bio
Ross Kernez is a digital marketer, community builder, mentor, and author. He is the founder of NYC-based SEO Meetup, a group of 2900 marketing professionals who meet monthly to network and discuss the latest trends and happenings in the industry.
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Published: 03.04.2010
As a Freelance SEO Consultant, I specialize in optimizing websites to improve their visibility in search engine results. Working on a contract basis, I provide expert advice and implement strategies to enhance a website's search engine rankings. I analyze website performance, conduct keyword research, create content strategies, and build backlinks to increase organic traffic. My goal is to help businesses improve their online presence and achieve better search engine rankings, leading to increased traffic and conversions.
By working with me, you gain access to top-tier marketing leadership and the ability to implement advanced marketing strategies that are tailored to your unique business goals. My expertise covers a wide range of industries, enabling me to bring a fresh, adaptable perspective to each client. From omni channel marketing and brand development to demand generation and go-to-market strategies, I ensure that your business stays ahead of the curve, benefiting from the latest marketing trends and insights. Whether you're looking to enter new markets, boost lead generation, or enhance your overall brand presence, I can help craft and execute a strategic marketing plan that aligns with your business objectives.

Freelance SEO Consultant

Freelance SEO Consultant
"If you can work with Ross, make it happen — you won't regret it!"
— Jennifer Anderson
Why Work With Freelance SEO Consultant

By partnering with me, you gain access to top-tier marketing leadership, empowering your business to implement cutting-edge strategies specifically tailored to achieve your unique goals. With over 15 years of experience, I bring a wealth of knowledge across various industries, enabling me to adapt seamlessly to the distinct challenges and opportunities your business faces. My approach is comprehensive, incorporating omni-channel marketing, brand development, and demand generation to ensure your business not only stays competitive but also thrives in an ever-evolving marketplace.

In addition to core strategies like lead generation and customer acquisition, I focus on enhancing brand equity, fostering customer loyalty, and optimizing the customer journey across multiple channels. My process is data-driven, ensuring that every decision made is backed by actionable insights, maximizing return on investment (ROI) and streamlining resource allocation.

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    Freelance SEO Consultant
    Why should you hire Ross?

    I hold a privileged position stemming from the wealth of data and insights that are a hallmark of my SEO meetups. These gatherings are a melting pot of diverse perspectives, where a community of like-minded individuals shares knowledge harvested from various sectors. Following these sessions, my team and I embark on the meticulous journey of organizing this rich tapestry of information, transforming it into a resourceful learning pool for all attendees.

    In the absence of proper organization, even the most invaluable data can resemble unmined gold — brimming with potential but lying dormant. Our role is akin to that of miners, sifting through the repository of information to unearth the golden nuggets of wisdom that can offer our attendees a rich learning experience.

    To leverage the knowledge sourced from these dynamic platforms and to foster growth in your SEO endeavors, would you consider arranging a consultation with me? Let’s collaborate and carve a pathway to success.

    Why Hire Freelance SEO Consultant

    I have worked in numerous large enterprises within the marketing & SEO departments. Taking these businesses up the search engine result pages (SERPS), these roles formed the bases of my experience.

    I have also been fortunate enough to advise & consult numerous smaller and medium businesses across a wide array of verticals and this also greatly enhanced my knowledge about the market and of course how to implement a ‘search’ strategy to garner visibility and generate revenue.

    I have also been fortunate enough to participate in some more unique projects

    Freelance SEO Consultant
    Freelance SEO Consultant
    Who is Ross Kernez?

    With over 15+ years of experience, I specialize in building marketing systems that consistently attract and retain customers. My approach is rooted in meticulous processes, ensuring that every aspect of my work is efficient, scalable, and impactful. From complex tasks like SEO to comprehensive strategies, I design systems that minimize friction and cost while maximizing results.

    Ross is deeply involved in the marketing and tech community, mentoring startups at organizations like Techstars and Starta. He is known for his expertise in search engine optimization, digital marketing, and leveraging data analytics for marketing success.

    Here’s some feedback from someone who has worked with Ross
    Working with Ross Kernez as our freelance SEO consultant has been a fantastic experience. Their expertise in SEO has significantly boosted our website's performance and visibility. Ross Kernez conducted a thorough analysis of our existing SEO efforts and implemented targeted strategies that have resulted in higher search engine rankings and increased organic traffic.
    — Weng D.
    Ross Kernez has been an incredible freelance SEO consultant for our company. We were struggling with our online visibility and needed expert guidance to improve our search engine rankings. Ross Kernez came on board and quickly identified key areas for improvement.
    — Peski N.
    Hiring Ross Kernez as our freelance SEO consultant has been a game-changer for our online business. Their extensive knowledge and hands-on experience in SEO have helped us achieve remarkable results. Ross Kernez provided a comprehensive SEO strategy tailored to our specific needs, focusing on both technical SEO and content optimization
    — Dennis M.
    Freelance SEO Consultant
    What should you expect from your Freelance SEO Consultant
    • Expertise: A freelance SEO consultant should have deep expertise in SEO, including knowledge of the latest best practices, trends, and Google algorithm updates.

     

    • Customized Strategy: The consultant should develop a customized SEO strategy tailored to your specific business needs, goals, and target audience.

     

    • Keyword Research: The consultant should be skilled at identifying and targeting the most appropriate keywords for your business to improve your website’s visibility in search engine results.

     

    • On-Page and Off-Page Optimization: The consultant should be able to handle both on-page and off-page SEO. On-page involves optimizing elements on your website such as title tags, meta descriptions, content, and internal links. Off-page refers to activities outside your website that affect your rankings, such as backlinks and social signals.

     

    • Technical SEO: The consultant should be proficient in technical SEO aspects like site speed optimization, mobile-friendliness, XML sitemaps, schema markup, and handling issues such as duplicate content or 404 errors.

     

    • Content Strategy: Content is crucial for SEO. The consultant should be capable of formulating a content strategy that includes creating and optimizing content that’s relevant and valuable to your target audience.

     

    • Reporting and Analytics: The consultant should regularly monitor, analyze, and report on your website’s SEO performance. They should use tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console to track key metrics such as traffic, rankings, and conversions.

     

    • Clear Communication: Expect clear, transparent communication from your freelance SEO consultant. They should keep you updated on the strategies they’re implementing, the progress they’re making, and any challenges they encounter.

     

    • Results: While SEO takes time and patience, you should expect your freelance SEO consultant to deliver tangible results. These could include improvements in your website’s rankings, increased organic traffic, and growth in conversions.

     

    • Professionalism: The consultant should meet deadlines, respond promptly to your communications, and conduct themselves in a professional manner. They should also be open to feedback and willing to make adjustments as needed.

     

    Remember, a good SEO consultant should not promise immediate or unrealistically fast results, as genuine SEO improvements take time. But with their guidance and efforts, you should see a steady, sustainable increase in your website’s performance.

    FAQs

    What is a Freelance SEO Consultant?

    A Freelance SEO Consultant is an independent professional who specializes in optimizing websites to improve their visibility in search engine results. They work on a contract basis, providing expert advice and implementing strategies to enhance a website’s search engine rankings. Freelance SEO consultants analyze website performance, conduct keyword research, create content strategies, and build backlinks to increase organic traffic. Their goal is to help businesses improve their online presence and achieve better search engine rankings, leading to increased traffic and conversions.

    Why should I hire a Freelance SEO Consultant?

    Hiring a Freelance SEO Consultant offers several benefits. First, they provide specialized expertise in search engine optimization, which can be critical for improving your website’s visibility and driving organic traffic. Freelance consultants often have experience working with a variety of industries and can bring fresh perspectives and innovative strategies to your SEO efforts. They offer flexibility, allowing you to hire them on a project basis or for ongoing support as needed. Additionally, freelance consultants can be more cost-effective than hiring a full-time employee or an agency, as you only pay for the services you need. By leveraging their expertise, you can achieve better search rankings, attract more visitors, and ultimately grow your business.

    How do I find a reliable Freelance SEO Consultant?

    Finding a reliable Freelance SEO Consultant involves a few key steps. Start by asking for recommendations from colleagues or industry peers who have had positive experiences with SEO consultants. You can also search online platforms such as Upwork, Freelancer, or LinkedIn, where you can read reviews and view portfolios of potential candidates. When evaluating consultants, look for those with proven experience and a track record of success in your industry. Check their references and ask for case studies or examples of previous work. It’s also important to have a clear understanding of their SEO strategies and approach to ensure they align with your goals and values. Conduct interviews to assess their communication skills, responsiveness, and ability to understand your business needs. By taking these steps, you can find a reliable and effective Freelance SEO Consultant to help you achieve your SEO goals.

    What services do Freelance SEO Consultants offer?

    Freelance SEO Consultants offer a wide range of services to improve your website’s search engine performance. These services typically include keyword research to identify the most relevant and high-traffic keywords for your industry. They conduct on-page SEO, which involves optimizing individual web pages, including meta tags, headers, and content, to improve their search engine rankings. Off-page SEO services include building high-quality backlinks from authoritative websites to increase your site’s authority and visibility. Freelance consultants also perform technical SEO audits to identify and fix issues that may be hindering your site’s performance, such as broken links, slow loading times, and mobile-friendliness. Content creation and optimization are also key services, ensuring that your website has valuable, relevant, and engaging content that attracts and retains visitors. Additionally, many consultants offer ongoing SEO monitoring and reporting to track progress and make data-driven adjustments to your strategy.

    How much does it cost to hire a Freelance SEO Consultant?

    The cost of hiring a Freelance SEO Consultant can vary widely depending on several factors, including the consultant’s experience, the scope of the project, and the specific services required. Some consultants charge hourly rates, which can range from $50 to $200 or more per hour. Others may offer project-based pricing, where the cost is determined by the complexity and duration of the project. Monthly retainer fees are another common pricing model, typically ranging from $500 to $5,000 per month, depending on the level of ongoing support and services provided. It’s important to discuss pricing and payment terms upfront with your consultant to ensure there are no surprises and that you have a clear understanding of the costs involved. Keep in mind that while cost is an important consideration, the value and results that an experienced and effective SEO consultant can bring to your business should also be factored into your decision.

    What should I expect during the initial consultation with a Freelance SEO Consultant?

    During the initial consultation with a Freelance SEO Consultant, you can expect to discuss your business goals, current SEO performance, and specific challenges or issues you are facing. The consultant will likely ask questions about your target audience, competitors, and any previous SEO efforts you have undertaken. This information helps them understand your unique needs and tailor their strategies accordingly. They may also conduct a preliminary analysis of your website to identify any immediate areas for improvement. The initial consultation is an opportunity for you to ask questions about the consultant’s experience, approach, and services, as well as to discuss your expectations and desired outcomes. By the end of the consultation, you should have a clearer understanding of how the consultant can help you achieve your SEO goals and the next steps in the process.

    How long does it take to see results from SEO efforts?

    The timeline for seeing results from SEO efforts can vary depending on several factors, including the competitiveness of your industry, the current state of your website, and the specific strategies implemented. Generally, it can take anywhere from three to six months to start seeing noticeable improvements in search engine rankings and organic traffic. However, SEO is a long-term investment, and the most significant results often take six to twelve months or longer to achieve. It’s important to be patient and understand that SEO is an ongoing process that requires continuous effort and optimization. Regular monitoring and adjustments are necessary to maintain and improve your rankings over time. Working with an experienced Freelance SEO Consultant can help ensure that your efforts are effective and that you see positive results as efficiently as possible.

    What is the difference between on-page and off-page SEO?

    On-page SEO and off-page SEO are two fundamental aspects of search engine optimization that work together to improve a website’s visibility and rankings. On-page SEO refers to the optimization of individual web pages to enhance their relevance and search engine performance. This includes optimizing meta tags (title tags and meta descriptions), headers (H1, H2, etc.), and content with targeted keywords. It also involves improving the overall user experience by ensuring fast loading times, mobile-friendliness, and a clear site structure. On-page SEO focuses on elements within your control on your own website.

    Off-page SEO, on the other hand, refers to actions taken outside of your website to improve its authority and credibility. The most common off-page SEO activity is link building, which involves acquiring high-quality backlinks from other reputable websites. These backlinks signal to search engines that your site is trustworthy and authoritative, which can improve your rankings. Off-page SEO also includes activities such as social media marketing, influencer outreach, and online reputation management. Together, on-page and off-page SEO create a comprehensive strategy to enhance your website’s visibility and attract organic traffic.

    What are the key elements of a successful SEO strategy?

    A successful SEO strategy involves several key elements. First, conducting thorough keyword research to identify relevant and high-traffic keywords is essential. Optimizing on-page elements, such as meta tags, headers, and content, with targeted keywords helps improve search rankings. Technical SEO, including site speed optimization, mobile-friendliness, and a clear site structure, ensures search engines can effectively crawl and index your site. Building high-quality backlinks from authoritative websites enhances your site’s authority and visibility. Creating valuable, engaging, and relevant content that addresses the needs of your target audience is crucial for attracting and retaining visitors. Regularly monitoring and analyzing key performance indicators (KPIs) helps track progress and make data-driven adjustments to your strategy. Integrating social media and other marketing channels can increase the reach of your content and attract more traffic. By incorporating these elements into your SEO strategy, you can improve your search rankings, drive organic traffic, and achieve your business goals.

     

    How do Freelance SEO Consultants stay updated with the latest SEO trends and algorithm changes?

    Freelance SEO Consultants stay updated with the latest SEO trends and algorithm changes through continuous learning and professional development. They follow reputable SEO blogs and websites such as Moz, Search Engine Journal, and the Google Webmaster Central Blog to stay informed about industry news and updates. Many consultants participate in online forums and communities where they can share insights and learn from other SEO professionals. Attending industry conferences, webinars, and workshops is another way to gain knowledge and network with peers. Additionally, subscribing to newsletters from leading SEO tools like SEMrush and Ahrefs provides regular updates and tips. By staying informed and adapting their strategies to align with the latest best practices and algorithm changes, Freelance SEO Consultants can ensure they are providing the most effective and up-to-date services to their clients.

    What tools do Freelance SEO Consultants use?

    Freelance SEO Consultants use a variety of tools to analyze, monitor, and optimize websites for search engine performance. Google Analytics is a fundamental tool for tracking website traffic, user behavior, and conversion rates. Google Search Console provides insights into search performance, including keyword rankings, click-through rates, and indexing issues. Tools like SEMrush and Ahrefs offer comprehensive SEO analytics, including keyword research, backlink analysis, and competitor insights. For technical SEO audits, tools such as Screaming Frog and DeepCrawl help identify issues like broken links, duplicate content, and site structure problems. Keyword research tools like Moz Keyword Explorer and Ubersuggest help consultants identify relevant and high-traffic keywords. Additionally, content optimization tools like Yoast SEO for WordPress assist in optimizing on-page elements. By leveraging these tools, Freelance SEO Consultants can effectively analyze and improve their clients’ website performance.

    How can I measure the success of my SEO efforts?

    Measuring the success of your SEO efforts involves tracking various key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess improvements in search engine visibility, traffic, and conversions. Organic traffic is a primary KPI, indicating the number of visitors coming to your website from search engine results. Monitoring keyword rankings helps you see how well your site is performing for targeted search terms. Click-through rates (CTR) show how often users click on your site from search results. Conversion rates measure the percentage of visitors who take a desired action, such as making a purchase or signing up for a newsletter. Bounce rate indicates the percentage of visitors who leave your site after viewing only one page, which can highlight user experience issues. Tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console provide detailed reports on these metrics. Regularly reviewing and analyzing these KPIs helps you understand the effectiveness of your SEO strategy and make data-driven decisions to optimize your efforts.

    What are the common challenges faced by Freelance SEO Consultants?

    Freelance SEO Consultants often face several challenges in their work. One common challenge is staying updated with the constant changes in search engine algorithms and SEO best practices. The SEO landscape is always evolving, and consultants must continuously learn and adapt their strategies to stay effective. Another challenge is managing client expectations, as SEO results can take time to materialize, and some clients may expect quick wins. Balancing multiple clients and projects can also be demanding, requiring strong time management and organizational skills. Additionally, dealing with technical issues on client websites, such as slow loading times, broken links, and mobile-friendliness, can be complex and time-consuming. Building and maintaining high-quality backlinks is another challenge, as it requires consistent effort and outreach. Despite these challenges, experienced Freelance SEO Consultants can navigate them effectively and deliver successful outcomes for their clients.

    How can a Freelance SEO Consultant help improve local SEO?

    A Freelance SEO Consultant can help improve local SEO by optimizing your website and online presence to attract local customers. They start by conducting keyword research to identify local search terms relevant to your business. Creating and optimizing a Google My Business profile is essential for local SEO, as it helps your business appear in local search results and Google Maps. The consultant will ensure that your business information, such as name, address, and phone number (NAP), is consistent across all online directories and listings. They will also optimize your website’s on-page elements, including meta tags, headers, and content, with local keywords. Building local backlinks from other businesses and organizations in your area can enhance your site’s authority. Additionally, encouraging and managing customer reviews can improve your online reputation and attract more local traffic. By implementing these strategies, a Freelance SEO Consultant can help your business achieve better visibility in local search results and drive more local customers to your site.

    What are the benefits of long-tail keywords in SEO?

    Long-tail keywords are longer and more specific keyword phrases that visitors are more likely to use when they are closer to making a purchase or finding what they are looking for. The benefits of long-tail keywords in SEO are numerous. First, they are less competitive than short-tail keywords, making it easier to achieve higher rankings in search results. Long-tail keywords often have higher conversion rates because they capture more targeted and specific search intent. Users searching with long-tail keywords are typically further along in the buying process and more likely to convert. Additionally, long-tail keywords help attract a niche audience, allowing you to focus on specific segments of your market. By incorporating long-tail keywords into your content strategy, you can drive more qualified traffic to your site, improve engagement, and increase conversions.

    How do Freelance SEO Consultants approach content marketing?

    Freelance SEO Consultants approach content marketing as a key component of a comprehensive SEO strategy. They start by conducting keyword research to identify topics and keywords that are relevant to your target audience and have good search volume. Creating high-quality, valuable, and engaging content that addresses the needs and pain points of your audience is essential. This can include blog posts, articles, infographics, videos, and other content types. Consultants optimize the content with targeted keywords, meta tags, and internal links to improve search visibility. They also promote the content through various channels, such as social media, email marketing, and influencer outreach, to increase its reach and attract backlinks. Regularly updating and refreshing existing content ensures it remains relevant and continues to perform well in search results. By integrating content marketing into their SEO strategy, Freelance SEO Consultants can help businesses attract and engage their target audience, drive organic traffic, and achieve their SEO goals.

    How do I choose the right Freelance SEO Consultant for my business?

    Choosing the right Freelance SEO Consultant for your business involves several key considerations. Start by evaluating their experience and expertise in your industry. Look for consultants with a proven track record of success and positive client reviews. Ask for case studies or examples of previous work to assess their capabilities. Consider their approach to SEO and ensure it aligns with your business goals and values. Communication is also crucial, so choose a consultant who is responsive, transparent, and easy to work with. Discuss pricing and payment terms upfront to ensure they fit within your budget. Conduct interviews to get a sense of their professionalism, problem-solving skills, and ability to understand your business needs. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can choose a Freelance SEO Consultant who is well-suited to help you achieve your SEO objectives.

    How can I improve my website’s user experience (UX) for better SEO?

    Improving your website’s user experience (UX) is crucial for better SEO performance. Start by ensuring your site is mobile-friendly, as a significant portion of users access websites on mobile devices. Optimize site speed by compressing images, minimizing HTTP requests, and leveraging browser caching. Create a clear and intuitive site structure with easy navigation to help users find information quickly. Use descriptive and concise meta tags, headers, and URLs to improve readability and search engine understanding. Ensure that your content is valuable, relevant, and engaging, with clear calls-to-action (CTAs). Implementing a responsive design that adjusts to different screen sizes and resolutions enhances user experience. Regularly update and refresh your content to keep it relevant and informative. Conducting usability testing and gathering feedback from users can provide insights into areas for improvement. By focusing on UX, you can reduce bounce rates, increase dwell time, and improve overall user satisfaction, which can positively impact your search rankings.