If you’re a freelancer looking to get consistent work without relying on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr, learning SEO might be one of the best investments you can make. SEO (Search Engine Optimization) helps businesses and individuals rank on search engines like Google, bringing in organic traffic that can convert into paying clients. But should every freelancer learn it?
In this article, we’ll break down why SEO is essential, how much freelance SEO professionals make, and whether it’s worth adding to your skillset. We’ll also include insights inspired by Hisham Sarwar, a renowned Pakistani freelancer and digital entrepreneur.
Let’s dive in!
Who Is Hisham Sarwar? – CEO of Infomist Services
Hisham Sarwar is CEO of Infomist Services, CEO& Co-Founder of Workchest, a Pakistani freelance marketplace. Hisham Sarwar is one of Pakistan’s top freelancers, best known for his contributions to graphic design, freelancing, and digital marketing. Hisham Sarwar is Author of book “Seekhna Seekho”He has trained thousands of freelancers through his YouTube channel and social media platforms, helping them earn independently through platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, and personal branding.
Hisham Sarwar emphasizes the importance of SEO and digital marketing as a way to build a sustainable freelance business. According to him, relying solely on freelance marketplaces means competing on price, while learning SEO allows freelancers to generate their own leads without platform fees or competition pressures.
Now, let’s look at why SEO is crucial for freelancers.
The Growing Importance of SEO in Freelancing
The freelance industry is booming, with the global market expected to surpass $500 billion by 2025. (Client Manager)
Within this industry, SEO services are among the most in-demand skills, with the freelance SEO market projected to hit $20.2 billion by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 18.3%. (Business Research Company)
So, why is SEO growing so fast?
1. More Businesses Are Moving Online
With eCommerce expanding, businesses are investing heavily in SEO to drive organic traffic. If you’re a freelancer offering SEO services, web development, or content writing, knowing SEO makes you far more valuable.
2. Content Marketing is Exploding
Companies now prioritize high-quality, SEO-optimized content to increase visibility and authority. If you’re a writer, knowing SEO can help you charge more for your services.
3. Google’s Algorithm Updates Keep SEO Relevant
SEO isn’t a one-time job. Google’s algorithm constantly evolves, making SEO a continuous need for businesses. This ensures long-term demand for SEO experts in the freelance world.
How Much Do Freelance SEO Professionals Earn?
If you’re wondering whether SEO is worth learning as a freelancer, just look at the earning potential:
- Hourly Rates: The average freelance SEO consultant charges $75 per hour. (SEO Back Office)
- Monthly Retainers: 32.2% of SEO freelancers charge over $1,000 per month, with some earning between $250 to $500 per month per client. (SEO Back Office)
- Per-Project Fees: The average SEO project costs around $2,348.68. (SEO Back Office)
- Annual Earnings: Nearly 45% of freelance SEO professionals earn between $75,000 and $149,000 per year. (Search Engine Journal)
Compared to general freelancing, SEO offers higher earning potential with recurring revenue opportunities, making it an excellent skill for freelancers to master.
Should Every Freelancer Learn SEO?
Not every freelancer needs to become an SEO expert, but learning the basics can massively boost your income and visibility. Here’s why:
1. More Clients Will Find You
Instead of constantly bidding on projects, SEO helps clients find you organically. Whether you run a personal website or blog, optimizing it for search engines can bring in consistent, high-quality leads.
2. SEO Helps You Charge More
Freelancers who understand SEO can justify higher rates because their services drive measurable business results. Whether you’re a writer, developer, or marketer, SEO skills make your work more valuable.
3. You Can Build a Brand Beyond Freelance Marketplaces
Most freelancers rely on Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer.com, where competition is high and prices are often low. With SEO, you can create a personal brand, attract clients directly, and eliminate platform fees.
4. SEO Opens Up More Career Opportunities
Even if you don’t want to offer SEO as a service, knowing it helps in blogging, affiliate marketing, YouTube growth, and even eCommerce. It’s a high-income skill with multiple applications.
How to Get Started with SEO as a Freelancer?
If you’re new to SEO, here’s a simple roadmap:
- Learn SEO Basics – Understand on-page, off-page, and technical SEO. Follow blogs like Moz, Ahrefs, and Search Engine Journal.
- Practice on Your Own Website – Create a portfolio site and optimize it for SEO. Rank for keywords like “Freelance Graphic Designer in [Your City]” or “SEO Content Writer for SaaS”.
- Offer SEO as an Add-On Service – If you’re a writer, add “SEO-optimized content” to your services. If you’re a web designer, offer SEO-friendly website design.
- Build a Personal Brand – Share SEO tips on LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube to attract inbound leads.
- Network and Get Testimonials – Join Facebook groups, LinkedIn communities, and SEO forums to find potential clients.
[Urdu Video] The Importance of SEO | Why It’s Essential for Freelancers & Business Owners? | Hisham Sarwar
Final Verdict: Is SEO Worth Learning for Freelancers?
Absolutely. Whether you’re a writer, developer, or digital marketer, SEO helps you stand out, earn more, and attract clients without relying on freelance platforms.
Inspired by Hisham Sarwar’s approach, freelancers should see SEO as a long-term investment rather than a quick skill. It might take a few months to master, but once you do, you’ll have a high-income skill that pays dividends for years.
So, should every freelancer learn SEO? Yes—at least the basics.
Let me know in the comments—what’s your biggest SEO challenge as a freelancer?
