The #OpenToWork Trend on LinkedIn
If you’ve been scrolling through LinkedIn lately, you’ve probably noticed the hashtag #OpenToWork popping up on posts from SEO professionals. These posts often share stories of shock and frustration—SEO experts finding themselves unexpectedly out of a job and in search of work.
Why is this happening?
The reality is grim: agencies are making SEOs redundant. This has been a trend all year, and it’s setting the stage for what could become the biggest career crisis in the SEO industry.
If you’re an SEO professional, you need to prepare for what’s coming.
You need a strategy to navigate these uncertain times, keep your career stable, and position yourself for the next phase of growth. This article will help you do just that.
From Boom to Bust: The Changing Landscape of SEO
The COVID Boom
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for SEO services skyrocketed. Businesses, confined to the digital space, realized the importance of online visibility. Agencies expanded rapidly, and competition for SEO talent was fierce.
Remote and hybrid work models became the norm, salaries rose, and the industry thrived. It was a golden era for SEO professionals.
The Post-Boom Reality
But the good times didn’t last. A mix of economic challenges—including inflation, rising interest rates, and a cost-of-living crisis—has forced businesses to cut marketing budgets.
As companies prioritize immediate returns through paid search, SEO has taken a backseat. The result? A crowded market with too many SEO professionals and not enough demand.
The Freelance Boom and the Race to the Bottom
Many SEOs facing redundancy are turning to freelancing or starting their own agencies. While this might seem like a logical step, it has created an oversupply of services.
The outcome? A highly competitive market where prices drop, and freelancers often struggle to secure sustainable income.
Agencies, meanwhile, face their own challenges. With fewer resources and tighter budgets, some are forced to promote inexperienced staff to fill gaps left by senior talent—a move that can compromise results and client satisfaction.
The Next SEO Boom Is Coming—Are You Ready?
While the current state of SEO may seem bleak, it’s important to remember that this is a cyclical industry.
Why SEO Will Bounce Back
Businesses that have overspent on paid search will inevitably turn back to organic strategies to cut costs. As the economy stabilizes, even modest growth will bring renewed interest in SEO.
However, agencies that have let go of their best talent may struggle to rehire. Many of these professionals, now enjoying the flexibility and financial benefits of freelancing, won’t be eager to return to traditional roles.
What Agencies Must Do
To attract and retain top talent, agencies need to evolve. This isn’t just about offering higher salaries—it’s about creating an environment where people want to work.
- Build a Strong Agency Brand
Agencies need to go beyond delivering results. They must develop a distinctive brand identity that appeals to both clients and employees.
For example, imagine if a well-known brand like L’Oreal started an SEO agency. You’d expect it to be glamorous and meticulously designed, offering a unique experience for both clients and staff.
Small agencies can do this too by focusing on:
- Innovative branding.
- Unique client experiences.
- A culture that values creativity and collaboration.
- Offer Competitive Salaries and Benefits
Freelancing has its perks, but stability, benefits, and career growth opportunities can be powerful incentives for top talent to return to agency life. - Invest in Training and Retention
Upskilling existing staff and creating clear career progression paths can help agencies retain their best employees and prepare for future growth.
What Freelancers Should Consider
While freelancing offers flexibility and independence, it also comes with challenges:
- No paid sick leave or vacation.
- The stress of managing inconsistent income.
- Difficulty securing long-term financial stability, such as mortgages or pensions.
Freelancers must weigh these factors carefully and consider whether a return to agency work—or even a hybrid model—might better suit their long-term goals.
The Bottom Line: The Battle for Talent
The SEO industry is on the brink of a significant shift. As growth returns, agencies will face fierce competition for top talent. The agencies that succeed will be those that:
- Build strong, recognizable brands.
- Foster positive work environments.
- Invest in their people and their culture.
For SEO professionals, now is the time to future-proof your career. Whether you’re staying freelance, seeking agency work, or considering a new direction, the key is to adapt, upskill, and stay ahead of industry trends.
At Aone Web Expert, we understand the challenges facing today’s SEO professionals and agencies. Let us help you navigate these uncertain times and prepare for a brighter future.