Episodios

  • Why Filipino SEO Professionals Are in Demand (Pero Underpaid?)

    Why Filipino SEO Professionals Are in Demand (Pero Underpaid?)
    May 24 2025
    In this episode of SEOKwentuhan, Gab and Gelo tackle a common issue in the freelance and VA world: Filipino SEOs are delivering strong results for clients abroad, yet still face low rates and undervaluation. Filipino SEO professionals are getting noticed across the globe for their skills, work ethic, and adaptability. From freelance gigs to full-time roles with international agencies, more and more Pinoys are helping businesses rank, grow, and compete online. But despite this growing demand, one big issue remains—many are still being paid less than they deserve. If you’ve ever questioned your rates, felt undervalued, or just want to better understand the industry dynamics, this episode gives real talk, useful insights, and advice you can use.Transcript Summary(00:00 - 00:41)Gab welcomes everyone back to the podcast after a long break. He introduces the main topic: Why Filipino SEO professionals are in demand but still underpaid. He notes this is a recurring concern in VA groups and affects other freelance specialties too.(00:50 - 02:14)Gab explains how wage differences between countries (e.g., US vs. PH minimum wage) make outsourcing to Filipinos attractive for Western companies. He shares personal experience about how foreign agencies offer rates only slightly better than local PH agencies, using local benchmarks to justify low offers.(02:15 - 03:45)Gelo cites statistics showing that Filipinos are 70–80% cheaper than their Western counterparts and still deliver quality results. The Philippines ranks #1 globally for virtual assistants, with SEO being a top outsourced skill.(03:46 - 05:10)Gelo explains factors including time zone alignment, cultural compatibility, and strong English communication skills. He points out that many clients require video introductions to gauge fluency, and Filipinos tend to excel here despite being "barok" at times.(05:11 - 07:36)Gab emphasizes traits like strong work ethic, adaptability, clear communication, and resourcefulness (e.g., finding free tools). Filipinos tend to go the extra mile, solve problems quickly, and adjust culturally to clients’ behavior.(07:37 - 08:16)Gab notes how being natural problem solvers and having high English literacy (96%) adds to their appeal. These strengths make communication and implementation smoother in international projects.(08:16 - 09:06)Gab and Gelo discuss the Filipino trait of adjusting to how clients treat them—being patient, resourceful, hardworking, and resilient, similar to OFWs in other industries.(09:16 - 10:50)Gab argues it’s systemic, especially for beginners who think $3/hour is already generous. Many experienced SEOs also stay in comfort zones, refusing to raise rates even with a decade of experience and proven results.(10:51 - 12:00) Gab clarifies that while there may be a lot of SEOs, not all deliver real results. The demand is still strong, but the market includes many task-doers versus true strategists.(12:00 - 13:15)Gab shares a strategy: start with a lower trial rate, show results, then either raise rates or ask for performance-based incentives. He warns that even with results, some clients will undervalue the SEO’s contribution.(13:16 - 14:33) Determine your rate by looking at peers with similar years of experience and skills. Client-facing communication and negotiation are crucial if you want to increase your value and income.(14:34 - 15:45) New SEOs often lack negotiation skills. Gab emphasizes the need to stand your ground, prove your worth through past results, and avoid underpricing if you’re delivering value.(15:46 - 17:33) Gab explains this fear stems from the uncertainty of consistent results and the lack of confidence. Solution: create packages per client type, understand client budget ranges, and study your niche deeply.(17:34 - 20:35) Filipino SEOs often underprice because they fear sounding incompetent in discovery calls. Gab encourages practicing communication and owning your SEO identity. If you’re doing the job, you are not an impostor.(20:36 - 24:44) Gab shares how foreign clients value SEO more than local clients. In PH, SEO is often undervalued or bundled with web development or social media, especially for SMEs. Foreign clients look for results and ROI.(24:45 - 28:03) Gab urges a culture of integrity and skill-sharing. Communities like theirs aim to educate and uplift Filipino SEOs, discourage dishonest practices, and build a professional reputation globally.(28:04 - 29:10) Gab explains that their podcast and community events real-talk issues to prevent others from repeating mistakes. Sharing case studies, strategies, and lessons helps everyone grow, even if others are more skilled.(29:11 - 30:30) Gab says: Don’t rush pricing high. Upskill continuously. Add new knowledge in AI, analytics, and other areas. Build your value before demanding high rates.(30:31 - 32:19) Gab advocates for outcome-based pricing over hourly billing. SEOs should see themselves as partners, ...
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    38 m
  • SEO in PH vs SEO International

    SEO in PH vs SEO International
    Apr 21 2025
    Ever wondered if doing SEO for local clients is really that different from working with international ones? In this episode of SEO Kwentuhan, Gelo and Gab unpack the real differences between doing SEO for Philippine-based clients versus international ones. From client expectations and pay gaps to search behaviors and strategy, they dig into what it really feels like to work on both sides. This episode is honest, relatable, and especially useful if you’re a Filipino freelancer or SEO specialist trying to navigate both local and global markets.What becomes clear as the conversation unfolds? It's not just about money—although yes, international rates are much higher. It’s also about how clients approach SEO. Foreign businesses often already understand the value of SEO and come with solid processes, while many PH clients still rely heavily on social media and need more guidance on SEO basics. Whether you're dealing with long-tail keywords for a local tire shop or international hreflang tags for a global brand, this episode covers the mindset shifts and tactical differences you need to know.Transcript Summary00:00 - 00:31Gab: Welcomes listeners to SEO Kwentuhan, a podcast on SEO and freelancing.Gelo: Introduces the topic: “SEO in the Philippines vs Abroad”, questioning whether SEO standards are really different.00:32 - 01:25Gelo: Shares his experience, mostly with foreign clients, though his past agency was PH-based but catered to global clients.Gab: Adds that while some PH clients target global markets, their business operations and SEO demands vary.01:25 - 03:11Gelo: Emphasizes the payment difference, estimating PH rates are less than 30% of foreign rates.Gab and Gelo: Agree that foreign clients are more SEO-knowledgeable, while PH clients often need more education on processes and metrics.Foreign clients often provide the SEO process; PH clients rely on the SEO specialist to lead.03:18 - 04:13Gab: Notes that popular marketing channels differ: PH leans toward social media, while foreign businesses prioritize organic search more.PH companies often come from traditional marketing, slowly transitioning to digital.04:21 - 06:21Gab: Clarifies that local SEO dominates PH due to limited geography.International SEO involves more research, language variations, and different user behavior.Strategies like hreflang are irrelevant locally but critical for global clients.06:21 - 07:07Gelo: Points out that in the PH, people often rely on word-of-mouth or neighbors for services like plumbers, unlike in the West where even small services have SEO-optimized websites.07:17 - 09:01Gab: Explains that SEO is more useful for big industries or emergencies (e.g., locksmith, tires).He gives real-world examples like Googling tire supply or Motolite battery delivery.Filipinos tend to search on social media first before Google.09:31 - 11:22Gab: Says SEO explanations are similar, but pricing is harder to justify to PH clients.Gelo: Adds that some international clients can be more difficult due to outdated knowledge or preconceived notions.Both agree: Local clients often haggle or expect discounts, especially when familiar.11:28 - 14:27Gab: Believes foreign markets are 10 years ahead, with earlier exposure to SEO tools and strategies.Gelo: Notes PH SEOs get backlinks mostly from webinars or events, unlike advanced strategies abroad.Gab and Gelo: Mention BrightonSEO and technical expertise like data analytics, which are less common locally.Many PH SEOs still work under managers vs. agency owners abroad who have more control and freedom to experiment.14:41 - 15:14Gab: Observes that individuals abroad can outrank big brands, thanks to level playing fields in Google’s algorithm.In PH, big brands dominate, so smaller players are better off targeting long-tail keywords or social media like TikTok.15:15 - 16:24Gab: attributes the undervaluation not to lack of skill but to mindsets of business owners.Many still see digital marketing as optional, relying on free or basic social media marketing.Bigger PH companies understand ROI better, but most small/medium businesses still resist investing in SEO.Don't forget to share and connect with our communities. Let's achieved success together!https://seoworkout.com/https://theseodad.org/https://seokwentuhan.com/
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    27 m
  • Strategies For Leading An In-House SEO Team Feat. Sir Jake Morales

    Strategies For Leading An In-House SEO Team Feat. Sir Jake Morales
    Mar 15 2025
    Leading an in-house SEO team comes with a unique set of challenges. Unlike agency work, where specialists juggle multiple clients, in-house SEO requires a long-term strategy, cross-team collaboration, and the ability to adapt to changing search algorithms. In this recent episode of SEO Kwentuhan, Sir Jake Morales, an experienced SEO leader at Canva, shared his journey from link building to becoming a mentor, offering valuable insights on leadership, team dynamics, and strategy execution.Throughout the discussion, Gab and Gelo explored what makes an effective SEO leader, how to manage conflicts in strategy, and what skills are essential for building a strong team. Sir Jake emphasized the importance of balancing technical expertise with leadership skills, ensuring that teams not only execute well but also grow professionally. If you’re an SEO specialist aspiring to lead a team or a current manager looking for ways to improve collaboration, this episode is packed with practical takeaways on mentorship, setting clear goals, and fostering a proactive team culture.Transcript Summary(00:00 - 01:57)Gab: Welcomes listeners to the new episode of Lighter Topics of SEO and introduces a special guest, Sir Jake Morales.Gab: Shares that Sir Jake was his first mentor when he started SEO in 2013, as his team lead or manager at the time.Gelo: Acknowledges this and adds that Sir Jake was also someone he looked up to in the workplace whenever he had SEO-related questions.Sir Jake: Greets the hosts and listeners, expressing gratitude for being invited to the podcast. He recalls working with Gab in 2013 when he was a supervisor, while Gab was a junior SEO. He also notes that he and Gelo currently work together under the same employer.Gab: Remarks on how small the SEO industry is, to which Sir Jake agrees.(02:08 - 13:42)Gab: Kicks off the discussion by asking Sir Jake how he started his career in SEO.Sir Jake: Explains that SEO is not typically taught in academic settings and is usually learned through professional experience or specialized training.Before SEO:Sir Jake: Began his career as a call center agent (2009-2010) before transitioning into copywriting.He recognized that writing was his strongest skill, leading him to pursue copywriting for a marketing agency.After losing his job, he was uncertain about his next steps.Discovery of SEO:A friend introduced him to SEO and encouraged him to apply to an SEO agency in Makati.This was his first time hearing the term "SEO."The agency was newly established in the Philippines and specialized in white-label SEO services.First SEO Role – Link Builder (2010-2011):Sir Jake was hired as a link builder, responsible for acquiring backlinks through directory submissions and blog commenting.He describes the early days of SEO, where link-building strategies focused on posting comments on forums and blogs.Transition to On-Page SEO:Sir Jake moved from link building to on-page SEO, where he worked closely with web developers and content teams.Gab recalls that he initially applied for web development, but ended up working in on-page SEO, where he and Sir Jake crossed paths.They reminisce about the collaborative and fun work environment at the time.Growth & Career Progression:Sir Jake explains how junior SEOs were structured differently back then but were heavily involved in technical SEO and project management.He spent 5 years in his first SEO agency, honing his expertise in various SEO disciplines.Moved to another SEO agency in 2015, where he was exposed to the broader SEO community and industry events.This second agency allowed him to network with top SEO professionals in the Philippines, where he learned new strategies and trends.Joining Canva (2019 - Present):In 2019, Canva recruited Sir Jake for their SEO team.It was his first in-house SEO role, which required him to adapt from the client-based approach of agencies.Responsibilities evolved from team lead → senior specialist → team lead again, handling keyword research, copywriting, and technical SEO.He visited Canva’s Sydney headquarters three times, with one trip occurring just before the March 2020 lockdown.(15:39 - 18:37)Gelo: Asks Sir Jake why he has remained in the SEO industry for 15 years.Sir Jake: Shares that:His SEO career grew alongside him, offering continuous learning opportunities.He experienced major algorithm updates like Google Panda & Penguin, which kept the industry exciting.Over time, he explored various SEO roles, from copywriter to strategist to mentor.SEO provided financial stability, career growth, and fulfillment.Gab: Agrees, noting that SEO challenges motivate professionals to keep learning and improving.(20:06 - 31:31)Gab: Asks Sir Jake to explain the key differences between an individual SEO specialist and a team lead.SEO Specialist:Focuses on expertise, execution, and technical skills.Must stay updated with algorithm changes and best practices.Often works independently or with minimal supervision.SEO...
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    1 h y 1 m
  • AI Latest Trends and Its Effect to SEO and White Collar Jobs

    AI Latest Trends and Its Effect to SEO and White Collar Jobs
    Feb 23 2025
    In the latest episode of SEO Kwentuhan, Gab and Gelo examine the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on SEO and white-collar jobs. They explore a spectrum of hot topics—from the rise of AI-powered search engines and autonomous AI agents to the nuances of workflow automation and deepfake innovations. With a blend of caution and excitement, the conversation dissects how AI is not only streamlining processes in digital marketing and content creation but also redefining what it means to work in a traditionally human-driven industry.Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasize the importance of balancing technical advancements with core human skills like creativity, communication, and critical thinking. They discuss how embracing new AI tools, while still mastering SEO fundamentals, can empower professionals to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. SEO specialists and white-collar professionals navigating the future of work will find that this insightful discussion offers a practical roadmap to harnessing AI’s potential while preserving the unique value of human ingenuity.Transcript Summary00:00 – 01:1600:00 – 00:06 (Gab): Gab welcomes listeners to a new episode of “SEO Kwentuhan,” setting a light tone for the discussion.00:06 – 00:09 (Gelo): Gelo asks what the topic is for today.00:10 – 00:42 (Gab): Gab introduces the main theme: the latest AI trends and their effects on white-collar jobs. He clarifies what “white-collar” means by contrasting it with blue-collar work.00:42 – 00:55 (Gelo): Gelo elaborates that white-collar jobs involve less manual labor—reminding listeners that SEO (their field) falls into this category.00:55 – 01:16 (Gab & Gelo): Brief examples are given (e.g., accountancy, law, marketing, development) to underscore how the discussion is relevant to their work.01:16 – 03:0401:16 – 01:38 (Gelo): Gelo invites Gab to share his opinion on AI—specifically within the SEO industry.01:39 – 02:32 (Gab): Gab reveals mixed feelings: he’s cautious about AI’s potential to disrupt jobs yet excited about the opportunities it opens up and the efficiency gains it promises.02:32 – 02:34 (Gab): He succinctly sums up that, for him, the benefits (the “advantage”) outweigh the fears.02:42 – 03:04 (Gelo): Gelo reassures listeners that this isn’t a fear-mongering session but rather an exploration of current trends and what they mean for white-collar work in SEO.03:08 – 04:4303:08 – 03:27 (Gab): Gab begins predicting what might unfold in 2025, noting that while the future is uncertain, we can expect significant changes.03:29 – 03:29 (Gelo): Gelo interjects with his expectations.03:30 – 04:25 (Gab): Gab discusses a surge in AI-powered search engines, mentioning global competitors (like OpenAI and DeepSeek) and speculating on how these innovations might shift market share and user behavior.04:26 – 04:43 (Gab & Gelo): They briefly debate whether AI-driven search will quickly catch up or if traditional methods will continue to hold sway.04:47 – 06:1104:47 – 05:20 (Gelo): Gelo observes that many people still prefer searching on their own—relying on “blue links” and familiar interfaces.05:20 – 06:04 (Gab): Gab contrasts this with AI’s speed, noting that while AI can deliver rapid results, users often trust traditional customer reviews and social media cues.06:04 – 06:11 (Gelo): Gelo adds an example: ChatGPT’s ability to script Google Maps to speed up tasks like finding restaurants.06:27 – 09:2806:27 – 07:27 (Gab): Gab explains the concept of autonomous AI agents—tools that do more than just provide answers; they learn user preferences and can automate complex tasks.07:27 – 07:48 (Gelo): Gelo inquires about which platforms are being used for these AI agents.07:49 – 09:28 (Gab & Gelo): The conversation shifts to platforms like N8N (despite its complexity) and other tools that enable multi-agent workflows—where one AI handles keyword research and then passes tasks on (for example, to content creation or outreach agents).09:29 – 12:0609:29 – 10:15 (Gab): Gab outlines how AI can automate entire content workflows—from keyword research to creating content briefs and even publishing directly to WordPress, streamlining the blog-post creation process.10:23 – 11:00 (Gelo): Gelo underscores that while such automation is possible, some caution is needed (e.g., ensuring quality and accuracy).11:22 – 12:02 (Gab & Gelo): Gab then brings up deepfakes as an emerging trend. He explains that with minimal input (like a picture or script), AI can generate realistic videos and interactive images, though this raises concerns about misuse and authenticity.12:07 – 16:4512:07 – 13:41 (Gelo & Gab): The discussion turns to how AI is being embedded directly into SaaS products—examples include platforms like GitHub, Canva, and Google Sheets. Gab notes that nowadays, a SaaS without AI looks outdated.13:39 – 15:09 (Gelo & ...
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    1 h y 3 m
  • What To Do When You Get Laid Off From Your Work: Tips for Career Recovery and Job Search

    What To Do When You Get Laid Off From Your Work: Tips for Career Recovery and Job Search
    Feb 2 2025
    Losing a job can feel like a personal defeat, but in reality, it may just be the universe nudging you towards something better. In a recent episode of their podcast, Gab and Gelo explore the emotional and practical challenges that come with being laid off. Gab sets the tone by discussing how being let go doesn’t always signal the end of the road, but rather, it can serve as a redirection to new opportunities. With industries like SEO constantly evolving and the rise of AI tools disrupting traditional roles, many professionals find themselves out of work or worried about their future. As they share in this episode, the key to overcoming such setbacks is all about mindset—transforming feelings of loss into a chance for growth.Throughout their conversation, Gelo and Gab share personal experiences and offer advice on job searching, networking, and upskilling. They provide actionable insights on how to manage finances and use downtime effectively, whether it's by learning new skills or tapping into existing ones. From leveraging professional connections to adapting to changing industry trends, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you rebuild and move forward after a layoff. If you’re looking for guidance on how to navigate uncertain times and turn challenges into opportunities, this conversation is for you.Transcript Summary00:00 - 00:35Gab: Introduces the episode, setting the tone by discussing the common experience of being laid off. Despite the negative connotation of losing a job, Gab emphasizes that it should not always be viewed negatively, and that such events could lead to new opportunities.00:45 - 01:24Gelo: Asks Gab if he has ever been laid off. Gab shares that he has never experienced a layoff but mentions that in his experience, he’s been the one to leave companies before they close. He reflects on the challenges of managing clients, particularly when a company’s sales are declining.02:15 - 02:55Gab: Acknowledges that in SEO, companies can fall out of the limelight quickly, especially after Google updates. He references the impact of changes in strategies within industries, noting that the SEO landscape is constantly evolving, and many businesses that relied on older SEO techniques (like PBNs or Black Hat tactics) are disappearing. Gelo adds that with the rise of AI tools like GPT, layoffs in the industry are becoming more probable.03:00 - 03:27Gelo: Discusses the specific impact of AI on content creation jobs, noting that AI is increasingly used in content generation, which has led to a reduction in demand for content writers. Gab agrees, explaining that AI can now produce content at scale for a fraction of the cost, contributing to job insecurity for those in the content creation field.04:17 - 05:02Gelo: Opens up about his personal experience of being laid off from his job in the casino industry during the pandemic. He shares the emotional turmoil he went through, especially as he had been the primary breadwinner for his family. The experience made him question his worth, as he had worked at the company for 10 years. Despite the challenges, Gelo describes how he pivoted to a new industry.05:03 - 05:25Gelo: Asks Gab what the first thing someone should do after being laid off. Gab, who has not been laid off himself, responds with advice based on his experience managing clients and tracking analytics. He suggests that after a layoff, it's important to shift your mindset to find the next opportunity, accept what has happened, and update your resume or freelance profiles.07:03 - 08:40Gab: Talks about the importance of upskilling and growing one's expertise after a layoff. He reflects on his journey from being a virtual assistant (VA) to transitioning into SEO and managing his own agency. He advises that upskilling, particularly in SEO, can open doors to new opportunities and career paths. Gelo agrees and highlights how valuable upskilling has been in his own career growth.09:30 - 10:59Gelo: Emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and processing one's feelings after a layoff. He also discusses how he managed his finances by building an emergency fund before being laid off. Having financial security helped him avoid panic and focus on finding the next opportunity. He also mentions that some companies offer severance packages, which can be useful in the transition period.11:33 - 11:56Gelo: Talks about how he used his time during the pandemic to upskill, watching YouTube videos and taking online courses on platforms like Udemy. He advises that, especially for people changing industries, gaining new knowledge is key to shifting careers successfully. Gab adds that financial management is crucial for freelancers, as income can be unpredictable, and having savings can help cushion periods of transition.12:21 - 12:22Gab: Gives advice on managing finances as a freelancer, stressing the importance of saving money during periods of high income so you have a financial cushion for ...
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    43 m
  • Kwentong SEO Freelancer Story #3 - You lost Your Heart On Your Job

    Kwentong SEO Freelancer Story #3 - You lost Your Heart On Your Job
    Jan 26 2025
    In this episode of the SEO Kwentuhan podcast, Gab and Gelo share the compelling story of a long-time freelancer who faced a tough decision between two clients—one loyal but increasingly demanding, and another offering a better rate and opportunity for growth. Titled “You Lost Your Heart On Your Job,” the listener’s tale highlights the complexities of freelancing, from navigating overwhelming workloads to recognizing when it's time to move on for better prospects. The story underscores the challenges that many freelancers encounter, such as negotiating rates, maintaining work-life balance, and managing relationships with clients who may not always appreciate the value you're providing.Gab and Gelo offer practical advice on handling these situations, including how to set boundaries, know your worth, and negotiate effectively. They also touch on the importance of maintaining professionalism—even when things go wrong—with the potential for future referrals or even a client comeback. The episode is packed with insights on client management, the art of negotiation, and the mindset needed to stay motivated in the face of rejection or unexpected changes in your career. If you're a freelancer navigating similar challenges, this episode offers both a cautionary tale and a roadmap for thriving in a competitive and ever-changing industry.Resource for you:Comprehensive Guide for Salary Negotiation + Template:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KOr3sbYPAW4Transcript Summary00:00 - 01:24Gab: Introduces the episode, sharing that the third story comes from a listener titled "You Lost Your Heart On Your Job." He mentions that the title seems heavy and somewhat "fishy," expressing curiosity about the story.Gelo: Responds humorously, showing his love for his job. He then begins to read the listener’s story. The listener has been freelancing for 12 years and specializes in link building. In 2019, they were hired as a link prospector at a US SEO agency and worked under a mentor who taught them the ropes of link building. The listener explains how they moved from development work to focusing on link building.01:24 - 02:34Gelo: Shares that the listener worked hard and was proactive, even managing their own notifications to stay focused on the work. They mention how the listener was dedicated and went above and beyond, managing emails and other tasks even when they were not instructed to do so.Gab: Comments on the listener's proactive attitude, adding that turning off notifications during weekends to avoid work stress shows a real commitment to the job.02:34 - 04:08Gelo: Explains that while the listener initially felt appreciated and even became a business partner in the agency, the workload soon became overwhelming. Despite meeting quotas, the expectations started to increase, and the relationship soured when the client began nagging the listener.Gab: Empathizes with the listener, noting how overwhelming it can be when expectations shift like that. Gelo adds that the listener had another offer from a different client, which prompted them to reconsider the relationship.04:08 - 05:47Gelo: Talks about the listener deciding to move on, choosing the higher-paying client over their current one. He mentions how this shift was also influenced by advice in freelance groups that suggest negotiating for better rates.Gab: Adds that this is a common scenario, especially in platforms like Upwork, where job offers can come unexpectedly, even when you're already employed.05:47 - 06:55Gelo: Shares that the listener discovered they had been removed from the project, receiving an email saying their "heart was no longer in the work." Despite the separation, the listener remained professional, thanking the client and apologizing for the misunderstanding.Gab: Acknowledges that despite the awkwardness, the listener handled the situation with confidence. The listener has since received messages from the old client, who wants to hire them back, but the listener is happy with the new opportunity.06:55 - 07:59Gelo: Humorously mentions that the old client is now messaging the listener even on holidays, but the listener remains firm in their decision. Gelo reflects on how hard it can be to choose between two clients, especially when one has been loyal but the other offers better compensation.Gab: Agrees that it’s tough to make that call, but highlights that the listener’s choice of the higher-paying client seems like a smart move.07:59 - 09:23Gelo: Mentions freelance groups and resources where tips on how to handle negotiations and rates are shared. He references Remit Sety’s YouTube channel, "I Will Teach You To Be Rich," which includes step-by-step negotiation tactics for freelancers.Gab: Notes that these tips aren’t just for employees but also for agency owners who may have to negotiate service rates with clients.09:23 - 11:23Gelo: Introduces the next segment of the podcast, where they will dissect the listener’s story and discuss ...
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    33 m
  • Kwentong SEO Freelancer - Story #2; 11 Years of Waiting A Lifetime of Learning

    Kwentong SEO Freelancer - Story #2; 11 Years of Waiting A Lifetime of Learning
    Jan 21 2025
    In this latest episode of SEO Kwentuhan, Gab and Gelo share the inspiring story of a listener who turned their life around after years of unemployment. Titled "Kwentong SEO Freelancer - Story #2; 11 Years of Waiting, A Lifetime of Learning," this episode is a powerful reminder of the impact persistence and self-education can have. From caring for a sick parent to discovering online job opportunities and ultimately finding a passion for SEO, the listener’s journey shows how determination and the right mindset can lead to unexpected success. His story is a testament to the importance of stepping outside your comfort zone, even when faced with life’s toughest challenges.As Gab and Gelo reflect on the listener’s experiences, they highlight key lessons for anyone looking to change careers or start fresh. Whether it's the value of community, the importance of mentorship, or the need for continuous learning, this episode is packed with actionable insights for aspiring freelancers and digital marketers. If you’re ready to overcome obstacles and take the first step towards your own success, this episode will inspire you to embrace new opportunities and keep growing—no matter where you’re starting from.Transcript Summary00:00 - 01:11Gab: Welcomes listeners to a new episode of SEO Kwentuhan, where they dive into the second part of the ongoing series, "Kwentong SEO Freelancer." This episode is titled "11 Years of Waiting, a Lifetime of Learning," which sparks curiosity about the long journey the listener (who shares their story in this episode) has gone through.Gelo: Adds a warm New Year’s greeting, acknowledging the time they took off for the holidays, mentioning how December is family time, but they’re glad to be back recording for eager listeners.01:12 - 03:02Gab: Reads out the listener’s story, emphasizing how their journey started after a period of unemployment. The listener shares a pivotal moment after graduation, when they took care of their sick parent. This personal responsibility led them to delay job applications due to the distance of job opportunities and the lack of nearby work options.The listener, while in the province, decided to explore online opportunities and started watching YouTube videos on how to earn money online. They tried a data annotation job where they would box cars in images. Unfortunately, despite earning some income, the listener faced a major challenge as many others were stealing tasks, limiting their opportunities.03:02 - 05:33Gab: Continues the listener’s story, noting that in 2022, they decided to enroll in a freelancing course. The course covered various basic niches like social media marketing, copywriting, and SEO. The listener was particularly intrigued by SEO, which they had no prior knowledge of but saw potential in. The course led them to enroll in a more in-depth SEO program, learning essential topics like on-page SEO, technical SEO, and link building.Gelo: Highlights the common feeling of being overwhelmed when first encountering SEO, noting how many aspects of it come into play, which can confuse beginners. Gab: Reflects on how SEO requires a broad understanding, even if someone is working on one specific aspect, and echoes advice from a previous interview that it’s crucial to know the "general view" of SEO to apply it effectively.05:34 - 06:34Gab: Shares how the listener’s journey continued by joining the SEO Tutorials Philippines community, founded by Miss Angeline. This group became a crucial learning resource, and the listener received valuable advice that motivated them to create a website for practice. This hands-on project allowed them to apply what they learned and build a portfolio.Gelo: Comments on how joining such groups is a common starting point for many in the SEO field, noting the importance of community support in the early stages. The community helps people gain insights and refine their skills.06:34 - 07:16Gab: Shares the exciting news that, by 2024, the listener was offered an internship by their mentor, which they eagerly accepted. The internship came with a small allowance, and soon after, the listener was offered a full-time position, transitioning from internship to employment.Gelo: Expresses admiration for the mentor's generosity, particularly for offering a paid internship, which is often rare in many industries. Gab: Emphasizes how life-changing this moment was for the listener, who went from being unemployed to being employed in a field they were passionate about. The listener’s story ends with a humorous note about aging due to the stress of SEO work.07:16 - 09:28Gab: Reflects on the challenges the listener faced during the 11 years of unemployment, particularly the responsibility of taking care of their sick mother and retired father. They point out that the listener's decision to take care of family first is understandable, though it led to delays in their career. Gab also acknowledges the growth of online ...
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    31 m
  • When Promises Turn to Pitfalls - A Freelancer’s Eye-Opening Journey

    When Promises Turn to Pitfalls - A Freelancer’s Eye-Opening Journey
    Jan 4 2025
    Happy 2025 everyone!Freelancing offers freedom and flexibility, but it can also come with unexpected challenges—especially when business promises start to fall apart. In this episode, Gab and Gelo discuss critical lessons learned from real freelancing experiences of our letter sender, including how to establish clear expectations, the importance of written agreements, and the need to set boundaries with clients and partners.From defining the scope of work upfront to knowing when to say no, this conversation provides practical advice that can help you avoid common pitfalls and protect your time and energy. If you want to learn how to navigate freelancing with more confidence and fewer surprises, this episode is for you.Transcript Summary:00:00 - 00:50Gab: The episode opens with Coach Gab welcoming listeners to a new episode of SEO Kwentuhan, mentioning a special story from one of their listeners.Gab: Introduces the episode as a special feature and mentions that Coach Gelo will be joining him for this story.Gelo: Explains that this episode is the first in a series called SEO Freelancers Story. It’s a collection of real-life experiences shared by freelancers, and this specific story is from a listener who encountered challenges in the freelancing world. Gelo teases that the full details are available on their website and Facebook page.Gab: Further explains that they’ll be discussing the story in a summarized format.01:00 - 03:08Gelo: Reads out a brief email from a listener, summarizing their freelancing journey. The listener shares their experience as a team leader (TL) in a community of 28,000 members. They were encouraged by a co-TL, "SEO Expert Girl," to dive into SEO. This led them to leave the community to join her in building her agency, with promises of a 25,000 monthly salary, revenue share, and SEO training.Gelo: Continues reading, detailing how things quickly turned toxic. Despite the promise of a salary and training, the listener’s new boss demanded long hours, sometimes from Monday to Sunday, without pay. The boss earned a significant amount (200,000 in sales) but only provided an 8,000 payout. There was also pressure to meet an unrealistic 500,000 sales quota for salary, which was unclear from the beginning.Gelo: The listener shares more about the toxic work environment, where the SEO Expert Girl treated the team poorly, demanding meetings that lasted 4-6 hours and even calling out team members for minor things like being sick or traveling to support her. The listener eventually resigned, and the SEO Expert Girl spread negativity, blaming them for the struggles of the business. Despite the hardship, the listener feels they’ve learned from the experience and moved on.03:08 - 04:44Gab: Reacts to the story, expressing empathy for the listener’s experience. He reflects on how such situations can happen in freelancing, especially when someone is too trusting of a business partner without knowing the full scope of the arrangement.Gelo: Asks Gab what lessons can be drawn from the listener’s experience. Gab answers, emphasizing the importance of thoroughly vetting potential business partners before committing to a partnership, even if they appear trustworthy at first.Gab: Continues, stating that while it’s easier to trust someone you know (like his wife, for example), in freelancing and business partnerships, it's crucial to understand the person’s background and intentions. He stresses that business partnerships should always start with clear discussions and agreements.04:44 - 06:43Gab: Advises that one should have several meetings and clearly outline the responsibilities and returns expected in any business partnership. He reflects on his own experiences with agency partnerships, where clear contracts and regular meetings were essential to ensure everyone understood their roles and obligations.Gab: Discusses the importance of formal agreements, sharing that his experience with partnerships has always been with clear written contracts that help define roles and expectations. He mentions how he and his business partners have always worked together to ensure the partnership’s success.Gab: Concludes the section by underscoring that clear, written contracts are essential in freelancing and business relationships, to avoid misunderstandings and to ensure that everyone is on the same page regarding deliverables and expectations.06:43 - 07:38Gelo: Emphasizes the need to understand the terms of an agreement before moving forward. He shares that even if you know the person, it’s important to protect your interests with formal contracts to prevent future issues.Gab: Reiterates that while it’s great to feel like you know someone well, it’s still crucial to make sure that everything is clearly outlined and agreed upon before committing to anything significant.Gelo: Reflects on how easy it is to get caught up in the excitement of a new partnership, especially when the person seems ...
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