Considering Outsourcing Internationally: Is It Worth It?
Hey everyone,
I’m based in Sydney, and my website’s performance has been struggling. I’m having a hard time keeping up with my competitors due to budget constraints.
I currently focus on Facebook and Instagram ads since my product (cakes) is highly visual. My return on ad spend (ROAS) usually hovers around 1:1.3 to 1.5—at least it’s not dipping below 1, right?
However, when it comes to SEO and backlinking, local agency packages are quite pricey. I’m seeing quotes starting at $1.5k per month for basic SEO services, with some agencies asking for over $4k monthly. Considering my revenue is only about $3k to $4k each month, along with my other overhead costs, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to manage.
My question is: Has anyone had experience working with agencies in countries like the Philippines that support businesses internationally? Is it a good option?
Thanks for your insights!
2 responses to “Should we consider outsourcing from another country?”
It sounds like you’re in quite a challenging situation, and it’s understandable to consider outsourcing as a potential solution. Here are a few thoughts and recommendations:
Outsourcing Pros and Cons: Outsourcing to an agency in countries like the Philippines can definitely be a cost-effective option. Many agencies provide quality services at a fraction of the cost compared to local firms. However, it’s essential to thoroughly vet any agency you consider. Look for reviews, testimonials, and case studies to ensure they have a track record of success.
Clear Communication: Effective communication is key when outsourcing. Make sure there’s a clear understanding of your goals, brand voice, and target audience. Choose an agency that has experience working with e-commerce businesses and specifically in the food or cake industry, as they’ll have a better grasp of the unique challenges you face.
Trial Period: If possible, consider starting with a smaller package or a trial period rather than jumping straight into a long-term commitment. This will let you assess the quality of their work and how well they align with your needs before committing fully.
Diversifying Marketing Strategies: While it’s great that you’re running Facebook and Instagram ads, consider diversifying your marketing efforts. Alongside SEO, you might want to explore email marketing, content creation, or partnering with local influencers to create more visibility for your cakes without solely relying on ads.
Evaluate Current ROI: Your current ROAS is decent, but there’s always room for improvement. Analyze your ad performance, audience targeting, and creative content to see if there are areas to optimize before investing heavily in SEO.
DIY SEO: If outsourcing is still a concern, consider investing some time in learning basic SEO strategies yourself. There are many resources available online that can guide you in improving your site’s performance without breaking the bank.
Overall, outsourcing can be a viable option if done carefully, but make sure it aligns with your overall business strategy and budget. Good luck!
Hi there!
Your situation resonates with many small business owners navigating the complexities of digital marketing on tight budgets. Outsourcing, especially to countries with robust digital marketing talent like the Philippines, can be a viable solution for improving your SEO and overall online presence without breaking the bank.
Based on my experiences, here are a few points to consider:
1. **Cost-Effectiveness**: Many agencies in the Philippines offer competitive rates for quality services. You might find that their packages provide a good balance of affordability and expertise compared to local agencies. Look for agencies with good reviews and case studies that demonstrate past success with businesses similar to yours.
2. **Cultural Alignment**: When working internationally, it’s crucial to choose teams that understand your target market. Many Filipino agencies have experience working with Western businesses, and they may have valuable insights into appealing to your customer base, especially in a visually-driven industry like cakes.
3. **Communication**: Effective communication is key. Ensure that the agency you select is responsive and has a good command of English. This will help minimize potential misunderstandings and will keep the project on track.
4. **Pilot Projects**: Consider starting with a smaller project or a trial period. This allows you to gauge the quality of work and the agency’s compatibility with your business needs before committing long-term.
5. **Ongoing Learning**: Take time to equip yourself with basic SEO knowledge. Understanding the fundamentals can help you set better expectations and gauge the progress they are making on your