7 Business Models to Consider in the Game of Search

Did you know that search is the leading driver of traffic to websites (300% more so than social media)? As such, companies are recognizing the importance of keyword optimization and a well-ranked website for their businesses lead generation and ROI.

Search engine optimization, or SEO, gives businesses and individuals alike the ability to control their destiny in search rankings—so long as the rules established by heavies like Google and Bing are followed and websites are maintained accordingly. It’s no surprise, then, that SEO experts are in top demand.

As an SEO professional, though, how do you decide which business model to follow?

With the vast size of the internet, the ever-changing search algorithms used to rank sites, and the growing number of professionals in the field, it’s a very important question to consider. You know the beginning of any good optimization begins with amending the structure and content of the website so it will play well with the search engines.

But then, there is the ongoing maintenance websites require in order to keep up with changing rules and trends, not to mention additional marketing tactics needed to support an SEO-friendly website. Do you take it all on or do you specialize? Do you work for others or for yourself? There’s a lot to consider here, whether you’re just starting out in the SEO game or looking to make a change.

The first important step is in recognizing what kind of person you are and what you want out of your career. Understanding that will put you on the right track to finding the type of SEO business model that fits you best. 

1. In-House SEO

Who is this for?

For the SEO professional seeking a stable, full-time position with one company. Your focus would be on managing and maintaining their SEO. Consider:

• You would work for one company and would handle their SEO exclusively.
• All the strategy and implementation would be handled by you—SEO for this one company is your sole responsibility.
• You’d be working for a company who already understands the importance of optimized web assets, so you wouldn’t have to continually sell your services or even the concept of SEO.
• You wouldn’t have to worry about all that comes along with managing your own business.
• This is a great starting place for any SEO professional who wants the time and support to learn, practice, and really hone their skills.

Who is this not for?

For the SEO professional looking for variety in work, freedom to control their own schedule, and the ability to grow in their career. Consider:

• When you work for a single employer, you specialize only on them, so if you’re not 100% absolutely thrilled or devoted to their industry or product set, this could get boring.
• The potential for upward mobility when you work as an SEO expert for one company is practically non-existent, so you better love your job.
  
  Source:http://www.searchenginejournal.com/7-business-models-consider-game-search/140064/