SEO is progressing at an alarming rate, and this year is no different. With the next big Google update on the horizon, it’s more important than ever to have an effective SEO strategy in place.

What constitutes Cheap SEO, and can it provide any value for a business’s online presence in 2021?

Let’t take a look.

What is SEO?

Firstly, let’s refresh in our minds what SEO is.

SEO or Search Engine Optimisation, is the process of enhancing a website, through both on-page and off-page techniques, to rank higher in organic search. When I say organic search, I’m referring to the non-paid listings on major search engines including Google and Bing. These fill the majority of the page, with paid ads clearly marked, usually at the top and bottom of each page.

SEO isn’t a quick fix or process. It takes time to make gradual changes, ultimately increasing its authority in the eyes of search engines.

Does Every Website Need SEO?

Not necessarily.

It depends on the type of website, it’s purpose, and what you want to achieve with it. If you want to represent and grow your business online, increasing traffic and leads, then yes, without a doubt.

If you are lucky enough to work in a very specific niche with little or no competition, or perhaps want a website as a simple portfolio to refer clients, then you may need little or no SEO.

The majority of websites will need some form of regular SEO. Whether that’s small updates and changes made by yourself, or regular updates and optimisation by an SEO agency.

What is Cheap SEO?

Cheap SEO can be different for everyone, depending on your own perception of cheap, and your available marketing budget.

For the purpose of this article, we’re referring to Cheap SEO Services being marketed as a low monthly fee, or a one-off SEO optimisation, each being marketed at less than £100.

From my experience, when people search for Cheap SEO on Google, they tend to be met with websites including Fiverr, offering one-off SEO freelance services. Usually for very low prices.

Bold claims indeed. They are certainly advertising Cheap SEO, but will they deliver the advertised results? Probably not.

Is there a chance of damage to your website domain with Google, and potential ranking issues in future? Absolutely.

Why should I be cautious of these Cheap SEO offers?

SEO is a complex skill, and while ranking higher in organic search was often as simple task of adding many relevant keywords and buying backlinks in bulk, today it is not.

While it is often possible to gain quick short-term results with these practices, in the long run, it’s probable that your website will encounter ranking drops, possibly even penalties from Google.

Cheap SEO vs Affordable SEO

In my experience, there’s Cheap SEO services and there’s Affordable SEO Services.

Cheap services offering the lowest possible price, while affordable services developed to enable smaller businesses, startups, or those with a smaller marketing budget, to rank above or among their competitors at a reasonable price.

What is classed as Affordable in SEO?

Well, that’s a tricky one.

It does depend mainly on what your idea of affordable is, which can change depending on your experience with SEO.

For a small business website, I would say that up to £500 per month is classed as affordable SEO packages, while being able to get measured results.

Conclusion

While it’s not necessary to spend thousands on SEO for most small business websites, finding the cheapest SEO offer isn’t usually a good idea.

There are reputable, affordable SEO agencies, that can offer a cost effective SEO solution, without having to risk the many hundreds of freelancers making bold claims when it comes to expectations and results.

SEO isn’t cheap if you want it done right. It’s always worth spending the time researching the right SEO agency to take your business forward online, while getting a good return on investment.