Hello there! Here’s your SEO client onboarding guide.
If you’re here, it’s probably because you decided to work with me on one of my SEO retainer packages. You’ve taken a real step toward a website that gets you found on search and booked by the clients you actually want. That means we’re doing this and that’s worth celebrating!
To get started, I need a few things from you, which is why I created everything on this list to make things easier for you.
Work through each item below and reach out to me if anything is unclear. I’m here to make this as straightforward as possible.
1. Access to Your Google Search Console
Google Search Console forms part of the foundation of your SEO strategy. It tells me which pages Google already knows about, which ones it doesn’t, and what search phrases your site is already showing up for. I’ll be using this data.
Don’t have a Google Search Console account yet? I’m happy to set it up for you.
Have GSC but you’re not sure how to add me? Use the guide below and add dlotti.writes@gmail.com as a user with full access.
→ How to add a user in Google Search Console
2. Access to Your Google Analytics
Google Analytics shows me the story behind your traffic, like how many people are visiting your site, where they’re coming from, and how that’s changed over time. It gives me the baseline I need to measure what’s working and what needs attention.
If you don’t have Google Analytics set up, that’s no problem. I’ll take care of it, just let me know.
Have GA but you’re not sure how to add me? Use the guide below and add dlotti.writes@gmail.com as a user with full access.
→ How to add a user in Google Analytics (GA4)
3. Access to Your Google Ads Account (If You Have One)
If you’re running paid ads, I want to see which phrases you’re targeting. It helps me build an SEO strategy that complements what you’re already investing in, so your paid and organic search can work together rather than against each other.
No Google Ads account? Continue down below.
4. Access to Your Website or CMS
Needless to say, I’ll need admin access to your website backend so I can implement changes. This is usually your WordPress dashboard, Squarespace, or Wix account, to mention a few.
Not sure how to add me? I’ve linked step-by-step guides for each platform below:
→ How to add a user in WordPress
→ How to add a contributor in Squarespace
→ How to add a team member in Wix
Add dlotti.writes@gmail.com as a new user, or set up a fresh login and send me the details. If you can’t locate this, your web designer/developer should be able to help.
5. An Introduction to Your Web Designer or Developer
Some changes, such as site structure, redirects, speed issues, need to happen at a technical level, and I’ll need someone who can handle them. If that’s not you, a quick email introduction to your web designer or developer is all it takes.
A brief ‘this is Diana who will work on the SEO and thought you should meet’ works, or pass me their contact details and I’ll reach out them.
6. An Introduction to Your Copywriter or Content Person
Content and SEO are inseparable. If you haven’t taken me up on copywriting or blogging services, I’ll need to work with whoever handles your written content (whether that’s you, someone in-house, or a freelance writer).
I’ll be sending over blog topic recommendations, page copy suggestions, and keyword targets based on what your ideal clients are actually searching for. The earlier we’re all connected, the smoother everything runs.
7. Your Signed Agreement
You should have received your agreement and terms from me via email. I use a CRM (client relationship management system) that will allow you to review, sign, and submit the agreement. Once that’s signed and returned, we’re almost ready.
Didn’t receive it? Let me know and I’ll resend it straight away.
8. Your Setup Invoice Payment
Once your first invoice is cleared, that’s my green light to get started. I’ll send you an email confirmation along with the next steps.
If anything above is unclear or you’re not sure whether you have one of these accounts, let me know.
Can’t wait to dig into your data and get started. See you on the other side!
