Businesses looking to improve their visibility in Google often face an important question early in the process: Should you hire an SEO consultant or work with an SEO agency?
Both options can improve rankings, increase website traffic and generate enquiries, but they work differently and may suit different types of businesses depending on budget, goals and the level of support required.
Some businesses prefer the direct communication and flexibility of an individual consultant, while others benefit from the wider resources and broader skill sets typically available within an agency environment.
In this guide, we compare SEO consultants and SEO agencies to help businesses across Preston, Blackpool and Lancashire understand which approach may suit them best.
What Does an SEO Consultant Do?
An SEO consultant is usually a specialist who provides strategic advice, optimisation work, and ongoing SEO support.
Consultants often work directly with business owners and may handle tasks such as:
- Keyword research
- Technical SEO audits
- Content strategy
- On-page optimisation
- Google Business Profile optimisation
- SEO reporting and recommendations
Some consultants also carry out implementation work themselves, while others focus more heavily on strategy and guidance.
What Does an SEO Agency Do?
An SEO agency typically provides a wider range of services delivered by multiple specialists.
Depending on the agency, services may include:
- Technical SEO
- Content writing
- Link building
- Web design and development
- Local SEO
- Analytics and reporting
- Digital marketing strategy
Agencies often combine several skills together to provide broader support across a business’s online presence.
The Benefits of Working With an SEO Consultant
Many businesses prefer working with an SEO consultant because communication is often more direct and personal.
Advantages can include:
- Direct access to the person doing the work
- Flexible working relationships
- Potentially lower costs
- Specialist expertise
- More personal service
For some smaller businesses, a consultant may provide exactly the level of support required.
The Benefits of Working With an SEO Agency
SEO agencies often provide wider support and greater scalability.
Advantages may include:
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- Access to multiple specialists
Whether you are looking for strategic consultancy or broader SEO support, our SEO Agency Preston team can help you build a stronger online presence across Lancashire.
Chris Giles Snr built his first client website in 1995 and has remained at the leading edge of web development and SEO ever since. He is a Fellow of The Chartered Institute of Marketing (FCIM).
