How Much Should You Charge for SEO Optimization?

So you’ve dipped your toes into the world of SEO optimization, particularly for the app stores, and now you’re wondering, “What’s my service worth?” Let’s break down how to price your expertise in app store optimization, ensuring you’re paid fairly for your skills.

Understanding SEO Optimization for Apps

Before setting a price, let’s understand what SEO for app stores entails. It’s not just about stuffing keywords; it’s about:

Keyword Mastery: Engaging in app store keyword research to find those golden terms that users are typing into the search bar.
Visibility Boost: Optimizing app titles, descriptions, and visuals to climb up the search rankings.
Conversion Optimization: Making sure once someone lands on your app page, they’re compelled to download.

Factors Influencing Your Pricing

1. Your Expertise Level

Are you a beginner or a seasoned pro? Your experience directly impacts your rates. If you’ve got a track record of improving app visibility significantly, you can charge more.

2. The Scope of Work

Is it a one-time optimization or an ongoing project? More work equals more charge. Also, consider if you’re handling just keyword optimization or the full spectrum of ASO, including visuals and user reviews management.

3. Market Demand

If there’s high demand for ASO in your niche or region, you might be able to set a higher price. Conversely, in a saturated market, you might need competitive pricing to stand out.

4. Project Complexity

Apps in highly competitive categories might require more sophisticated strategies, hence justifying a higher fee.

How to Price Your Services

Flat Rate

You might decide on a flat rate for a basic ASO package. For example:

Basic Keyword Optimization: $500 – $1000
Comprehensive ASO Package: $1500 – $3000

Hourly Rate

If you prefer charging by the hour, consider what your time is worth:

Entry-Level: $20 – $50 per hour
Intermediate: $50 – $100 per hour
Expert: $100 – $200+ per hour

Retainer Agreements

For ongoing optimization, a monthly retainer makes sense. This could range from:

$300/month for basic upkeep and minor updates
Up to $2000+/month for full-scale, ongoing optimization and reporting

Adding Value to Justify Your Price

To charge premium rates, you need to offer premium value:

Free Tools: Utilize app store optimization tools free to provide initial insights without cost, showing potential clients your effectiveness.
Case Studies: Show real results from past projects. Nothing sells like success.
Custom Strategies: Tailor your approach. An app for fitness might need different keywords than one for finance.
Education: Offer to educate your clients on why ASO matters. Knowledge sharing can justify higher fees.

Negotiating Your Rate

Don’t be afraid to negotiate but know your minimum. Here’s how:

Show Your Portfolio: A strong portfolio can speak volumes more than any rate card.
Flexibility: Maybe offer a basic package at a lower cost but with the option to upgrade for additional services.
Value Proposition: Clearly articulate how your work directly correlates with increased downloads and revenue.

Conclusion

Setting your price for SEO optimization, particularly for app stores, involves understanding your value, the market, and the unique needs of each app. Whether you choose a flat rate, hourly billing, or a retainer, remember, your goal is to offer undeniable value that justifies your cost. By using insights from apple app store keyword research and demonstrating a clear path to visibility and conversion improvements, you can confidently set rates that reflect your expertise and the quality of service you provide.