From Layoffs to Leads: Building a Thriving SEO Consulting Practice Today

Enterprise SEO isn’t the only space facing disruption; consulting is feeling it too. On Performance SEO Unpacked, Ruchi Pardal speaks with Emanuel (Alexandru) Petrescu about navigating layoffs, shrinking budgets, and uncertainty while still building a sustainable SEO consulting practice. Emanuel shares how his journey, from running a business in Romania to working across agencies, in-house teams, and enterprise roles in North America, helped him transition into solo consulting.

TIMESTAMPS

Time Topic

00:00

Introduction to SEO consulting and market opportunity

01:18

Why market turbulence is constant and AI is reshaping SEO

02:31

Emanuel’s journey from Romania to global SEO experience

03:46

Early consulting moves to land clients and build credibility

06:30

Networking strategies: online presence and real-world events

07:00

Social media influence and the value of in-person connections

11:01

How introverts can succeed in consulting and visibility

12:41

Personal branding across LinkedIn and other platforms

15:09

WhatsApp, global channels, and the future of communication

20:03

Building trust through education and transparent consulting

25:39

Turning relationships into long-term business opportunities

29:01

Mindset shifts: confidence, imposter syndrome, and saying no

32:46

Final insights and closing takeaways

Apple

Spotify

“Market turbulence isn’t new; it’s the default. The opportunity is in how you show up when others pull back.” — Emanuel Petrescu, SEO Consultant

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

In this episode, you’ll learn how to build a strong SEO consulting practice during layoffs and uncertainty and why tough markets can create real opportunities. You’ll also discover how to generate leads through community, visibility, and outreach, while turning conversations into long-term clients. Plus, learn how to use platforms like LinkedIn and WhatsApp, set clear expectations, adapt to algorithm changes, and handle imposter syndrome with confidence.

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