{"id":13403,"date":"2025-07-01T16:50:39","date_gmt":"2025-07-01T16:50:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/07\/01\/how-to-create-an-seo-report-that-wins-trust-and-budgets\/"},"modified":"2025-07-01T16:50:39","modified_gmt":"2025-07-01T16:50:39","slug":"how-to-create-an-seo-report-that-wins-trust-and-budgets","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/07\/01\/how-to-create-an-seo-report-that-wins-trust-and-budgets\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Create an SEO Report That Wins Trust (and Budgets)"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Most SEO reports go unread.<\/p>\n<p>Or, worse \u2014 they get skimmed, misunderstood, and ignored.<\/p>\n<p>But knowing how to create an SEO report that demands attention can change everything.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s not just a performance recap.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s a strategic tool that helps you build trust with decision-makers. Win bigger budgets. And keep your SEO efforts on track.<\/p>\n<p>In this article, you\u2019ll learn how to:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Create SEO reports that people actually read (and act on)<\/li>\n<li>Tie SEO performance to business goals<\/li>\n<li>Highlight wins and uncover growth opportunities<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Free resource:<\/strong> Download our <a title=\"SEO Report Template \/\/ Backlinko\" href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/presentation\/d\/1uLT-ApnnWZ1QbO5_WT1M2sa2TNaJRzoYzZB_u3dAZ1I\/copy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SEO Report Template<\/a>. It has ready-made sections for tracking key metrics, visualizing performance, and presenting clear next steps.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_81 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/07\/01\/how-to-create-an-seo-report-that-wins-trust-and-budgets\/#What_Is_an_SEO_Report_and_Why_Is_It_Important\" >What Is an SEO Report and Why Is It Important?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/07\/01\/how-to-create-an-seo-report-that-wins-trust-and-budgets\/#How_to_Create_an_SEO_Report_That_Drives_Results\" >How to Create an SEO Report That Drives Results<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/07\/01\/how-to-create-an-seo-report-that-wins-trust-and-budgets\/#Step_1_Determine_the_Stakeholders\" >Step 1: Determine the Stakeholders<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/07\/01\/how-to-create-an-seo-report-that-wins-trust-and-budgets\/#How_to_Report_to_Non-SEO_Audiences\" >How to Report to Non-SEO Audiences<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/07\/01\/how-to-create-an-seo-report-that-wins-trust-and-budgets\/#Step_2_Decide_Which_Metrics_Matter_Most\" >Step 2: Decide Which Metrics Matter Most<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/07\/01\/how-to-create-an-seo-report-that-wins-trust-and-budgets\/#Add-On_SEO_Report_Metrics\" >Add-On SEO Report Metrics<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/07\/01\/how-to-create-an-seo-report-that-wins-trust-and-budgets\/#Step_3_Turn_Raw_Data_Into_Actionable_Insights\" >Step 3: Turn Raw Data Into Actionable Insights<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/07\/01\/how-to-create-an-seo-report-that-wins-trust-and-budgets\/#Step_4_Showcase_the_Results\" >Step 4: Showcase the Results<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/07\/01\/how-to-create-an-seo-report-that-wins-trust-and-budgets\/#Executive_Summary\" >Executive Summary<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/07\/01\/how-to-create-an-seo-report-that-wins-trust-and-budgets\/#Performance_Metrics\" >Performance Metrics<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/07\/01\/how-to-create-an-seo-report-that-wins-trust-and-budgets\/#Next_Steps\" >Next Steps<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/07\/01\/how-to-create-an-seo-report-that-wins-trust-and-budgets\/#Appendix\" >Appendix<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/07\/01\/how-to-create-an-seo-report-that-wins-trust-and-budgets\/#Mistakes_to_Avoid_in_Your_SEO_Report\" >Mistakes to Avoid in Your SEO Report<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/07\/01\/how-to-create-an-seo-report-that-wins-trust-and-budgets\/#Reporting_Data_Without_Context\" >Reporting Data Without Context<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/07\/01\/how-to-create-an-seo-report-that-wins-trust-and-budgets\/#Surfacing_Issues_Without_Providing_Solutions\" >Surfacing Issues Without Providing Solutions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/07\/01\/how-to-create-an-seo-report-that-wins-trust-and-budgets\/#Listing_Every_Keyword_Ranking\" >Listing Every Keyword Ranking<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/07\/01\/how-to-create-an-seo-report-that-wins-trust-and-budgets\/#Including_Every_Single_Page\" >Including Every. Single. Page.<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/07\/01\/how-to-create-an-seo-report-that-wins-trust-and-budgets\/#Ignoring_Business_Outcomes\" >Ignoring Business Outcomes<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/07\/01\/how-to-create-an-seo-report-that-wins-trust-and-budgets\/#Telling_Not_Showing\" >Telling, Not Showing<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/07\/01\/how-to-create-an-seo-report-that-wins-trust-and-budgets\/#Show_the_Impact_Earn_the_Buy-In\" >Show the Impact. Earn the Buy-In.<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_an_SEO_Report_and_Why_Is_It_Important\"><\/span>What Is an SEO Report and Why Is It Important?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>An SEO report is a tool for measuring performance and shaping strategy.<\/p>\n<p>It tracks key metrics like traffic, rankings, and conversions.<\/p>\n<p>Then, connects them to business outcomes, opportunities, and priorities.<\/p>\n<p>A strong SEO report helps answer:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>What changed?<\/li>\n<li>Why did it happen?<\/li>\n<li>What should we do next?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Why SEO Reporting Is Important\" alt=\"Why SEO Reporting Is Important\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.80714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/why-seo-reporting-is-important.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>For example, let\u2019s say you run SEO for a workplace furniture ecommerce company.<\/p>\n<p>You notice a spike in traffic and rankings for your category page on ergonomic office chairs.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s how a useful SEO report would break that down:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Backlinko \u2013 SEO Report Template \u2013 Keyword Rankings\" alt=\"Backlinko \u2013 SEO Report Template \u2013 Keyword Rankings\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.56142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/backlinko-seo-report-keyword-rankings.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>It\u2019s a clear, focused snapshot that distills the data into what improved, why it happened, and why it matters.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Create_an_SEO_Report_That_Drives_Results\"><\/span>How to Create an SEO Report That Drives Results<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Too many SEO reports dump data without insight.<\/p>\n<p>Traffic, rankings, and top pages might look impressive \u2014 but they don\u2019t tell the full story.<\/p>\n<p>And without context, stakeholders are left guessing.<\/p>\n<p>The best SEO reports connect the dots. They tie performance to business goals, spotlight what\u2019s working, and make the next move obvious.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s how to build one that actually drives results:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"How to Create an SEO Report in 4 Steps\" alt=\"How to Create an SEO Report in 4 Steps\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.67\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/how-to-create-an-seo-report-in-4-steps.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_1_Determine_the_Stakeholders\"><\/span>Step 1: Determine the Stakeholders<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Before pulling data or building charts, get clear on <strong>who<\/strong> you\u2019re reporting to.<\/p>\n<p>Knowing your audience should shape your whole report, from the <a title=\"74 Important SEO Statistics\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/seo-stats\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SEO stats<\/a> you\u2019re using to how you communicate them.<\/p>\n<p>Ask yourself:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Who will read this?<\/li>\n<li>What do they know about SEO?<\/li>\n<li>Who will be making the decisions?<\/li>\n<li>What decision do I want them to make?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>And here\u2019s one more that\u2019s just as important:<\/p>\n<p><strong>Have I asked what metrics actually matter to them?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>A quick conversation can surface priorities that no dashboard will show you.<\/p>\n<p>From there, tailor the format, metrics, and language accordingly.<\/p>\n<p>(This is where many SEO reports go sideways \u2014 too much data, not enough direction.)<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s a quick breakdown of how to match your audience to your data and format:<\/p>\n<div class=\"table-responsive\">\n<table class=\"table table-primary table-striped table-hover\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"col\">Stakeholder<\/th>\n<th scope=\"col\">What They Care About<\/th>\n<th scope=\"col\">What to Show<\/th>\n<th scope=\"col\">Format Tips<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Stakeholder\">CMO \/ Exec<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"What They Care About\">Revenue, ROI, brand authority<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"What to Show\">Conversions, organic-assisted revenue<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Format Tips\">Keep it short, visual, and business-focused<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Stakeholder\">Marketing Team \/ Managers<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"What They Care About\">Channel performance, goal tracking<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"What to Show\">Traffic trends, keyword growth, top pages<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Format Tips\">Include takeaways and next steps<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Stakeholder\">Product Team<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"What They Care About\">Feature discovery, UX gaps<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"What to Show\">Search query trends, on-page feedback<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Format Tips\">Highlight qualitative insights and opportunities<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Stakeholder\">Small Business Client<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"What They Care About\">Clear wins, reviews, local visibility<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"What to Show\">Local rankings, top queries<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Format Tips\">Use plain language and short summaries<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<p>For example, if your primary audience is a CEO or CMO, you probably wouldn\u2019t lead with details about unindexed pages or on-page engagement time.<\/p>\n<p>Likewise, a report for a small business owner with zero SEO background shouldn\u2019t be packed with complex metrics or jargon.<\/p>\n<p>They need simple wins, clear summaries, and next steps they can act on.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Pro tip:<\/strong> When your SEO report serves multiple audiences, prioritize what matters most to decision-makers \u2014 like ROI, growth, and performance. Then, layer in tailored insights for other teams (product, content, dev, etc.) in separate sections or an appendix.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Report_to_Non-SEO_Audiences\"><\/span>How to Report to Non-SEO Audiences<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Working with clients who don\u2019t speak SEO?<\/p>\n<p>You can help them level up their knowledge by translating industry terms into easy-to-understand language.<\/p>\n<p>Add simple explanations to your reports and introduce new concepts one at a time.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Refine Your SEO Report\" alt=\"Refine Your SEO Report\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.60714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/refine-your-seo-report.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Here are three ways you can do this in your SEO reports:<\/p>\n<p>1. Include key takeaways to clarify complex points.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Backlinko \u2013 SEO Report Template \u2013 SERP Visibility\" alt=\"Backlinko \u2013 SEO Report Template \u2013 SERP Visibility\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.55714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/backlinko-seo-report-serp-visibility.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>2. Add links to educational resources on SEO concepts.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Backlinko \u2013 SEO Report Template \u2013 Technical SEO\" alt=\"Backlinko \u2013 SEO Report Template \u2013 Technical SEO\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.56\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/backlinko-seo-report-technical-seo.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>3. Add short videos with explanations of the client\u2019s data or performance.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Backlinko \u2013 SEO Report Template \u2013 Content\" alt=\"Backlinko \u2013 SEO Report Template \u2013 Content\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.56\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/backlinko-seo-report-content.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_2_Decide_Which_Metrics_Matter_Most\"><\/span>Step 2: Decide Which Metrics Matter Most<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Start with the key <a title=\"10 Important SEO Metrics to Track\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/metrics\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SEO metrics<\/a> every report needs, no matter the audience.<\/p>\n<div class=\"table-responsive\">\n<table class=\"table table-primary table-striped table-hover\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"col\">Metric<\/th>\n<th scope=\"col\">Why It Matters<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Metric\">Conversions<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Why It Matters\">Connects SEO to real business results. Key for proving SEO ROI.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Metric\">Organic traffic + engagement (including click-through rates and average position)<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Why It Matters\">Shows how well your pages attract and keep search visitors \u2014 great for spotting what\u2019s working.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Metric\">Organic impressions<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Why It Matters\">Highlights search visibility and signals growth or dips in core topics<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Metric\">Keyword trends (rankings, top non-branded keywords)<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Why It Matters\">Shows what\u2019s gaining traction and where to focus next. Helps spot cannibalization or decay.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Metric\">Backlink profile health<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Why It Matters\">Keeps tabs on link trust and growth. Important for authority.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Metric\">Technical health<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Why It Matters\">Identifies site issues that hurt SEO. Vital for maintaining crawlability and indexability.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Metric\">SERP features<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Why It Matters\">Tracks special placements that boost visibility (e.g., featured snippets, video results, or shopping carousels)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Metric\">LLM visibility<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Why It Matters\">Shows brand mentions and citations in AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Perplexity \u2014 key for influence in AI-driven discovery.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<p>You can find the majority of your must-have metrics in <a title=\"12 Best SEO Tools (Used by Our Team Daily)\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/best-free-seo-tools\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SEO tools<\/a> like Google Search Console (GSC) or Semrush.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Add-On_SEO_Report_Metrics\"><\/span>Add-On SEO Report Metrics<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Once you\u2019ve covered the essentials, you can layer in additional metrics depending on your team\u2019s strategy and goals.<\/p>\n<div class=\"table-responsive\">\n<table class=\"table table-primary table-striped table-hover\">\n<caption>\u00a0<\/caption>\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"col\">If you\u2019re prioritizing:<\/th>\n<th scope=\"col\">Include metrics like:<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"If you\u2019re prioritizing:\">User engagement<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Include metrics like:\">Scroll depth, bounce rates, dwell time, and GA4 engagement metrics<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"If you\u2019re prioritizing:\">Topical authority<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Include metrics like:\">How well your content ranks for key themes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"If you\u2019re prioritizing:\">E-E-A-T signals<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Include metrics like:\">Mentions, expert authorship, branded searches, trust indicators (e.g., social shares)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"If you\u2019re prioritizing:\">Content library ranking efficiency<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Include metrics like:\">What % of your pages rank in the top 10 to guide pruning or reinvestment.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Further reading:<\/strong> Curious about some of these add-on metrics? Check out our guides on <a title=\"Bounce Rate: What Is It and How to Improve It?\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/bounce-rate\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">bounce rate<\/a> and <a title=\"Dwell Time in SEO\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/dwell-time\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">dwell time<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_3_Turn_Raw_Data_Into_Actionable_Insights\"><\/span>Step 3: Turn Raw Data Into Actionable Insights<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Raw data doesn\u2019t drive decisions \u2014 clear stories do.<\/p>\n<p>Knowing how to create an SEO report means turning numbers into narratives.<\/p>\n<p>It needs to clearly tell a story around these questions.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Is our SEO strategy working?<\/li>\n<li>What changed?<\/li>\n<li>Why did it change?<\/li>\n<li>What should we do next?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>One of the best ways to tell the story is through time-based comparisons.<\/p>\n<p>Show how SEO performance has changed month-over-month (MoM), quarter-over-quarter (QoQ), or year-over-year (YoY).<\/p>\n<p>Highlighting changes over time makes it easier for stakeholders to spot trends. And understand why they matter.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Backlinko \u2013 SEO Report Template \u2013 Conversions\" alt=\"Backlinko \u2013 SEO Report Template \u2013 Conversions\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.55714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/backlinko-seo-report-conversions.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>For most SEO teams, the challenge isn\u2019t collecting data. It\u2019s translating it into context stakeholders care about.<\/p>\n<p>Raw numbers might make sense if you\u2019re inside the tools every day.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Organic Research \u2013 Backlinko \u2013 Overview\" alt=\"Organic Research \u2013 Backlinko \u2013 Overview\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.62\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/organic-research-backlinko-overview.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>But executives and cross-functional teams need more than charts. They need meaning.<\/p>\n<p>The best reports go beyond what changed. They explain why \u2014and connect the dots to business impact.<\/p>\n<p>Like this:<\/p>\n<div class=\"table-responsive\">\n<table class=\"table table-primary table-striped table-hover\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"col\">Metric<\/th>\n<th scope=\"col\">Increase Might Mean<\/th>\n<th scope=\"col\">Decrease Might Mean<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Metric\">Organic traffic + engagement (CTR, avg. position)<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Increase Might Mean\">Higher rankings or better-optimized content<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Decrease Might Mean\">Rankings drop or poor user experience (UX)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Metric\">Organic impressions<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Increase Might Mean\">More visibility in search<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Decrease Might Mean\">Lost rankings or SERP features<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Metric\">Keyword trends<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Increase Might Mean\">New or improved keyword rankings<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Decrease Might Mean\">Declining rankings or outdated content<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Metric\">SERP features tracking<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Increase Might Mean\">Gaining authority in SERPs<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Decrease Might Mean\">Dropped from features or lost relevance<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Metric\">Conversions<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Increase Might Mean\">SEO traffic is converting better<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Decrease Might Mean\">Traffic mismatches or UX issues<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Metric\">Backlink profile health<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Increase Might Mean\">More quality links or mentions<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Decrease Might Mean\">Lost links or declining authority<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<p>Translate percentages and numbers to what actually happened:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>What new pages were published?<\/li>\n<li>Did your development team ship technical fixes?<\/li>\n<li>How many backlinks were earned?<\/li>\n<li>Are algorithm changes or seasonal searches a factor?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Most importantly, link the SEO impact to business terms.<\/p>\n<p>For example, let\u2019s say your top product page jumped from position No. 9 to No. 3.<\/p>\n<p>In the same month, inbound demo requests doubled.<\/p>\n<p>That\u2019s not just a ranking improvement. It\u2019s a signal that higher visibility on the right terms is driving qualified traffic.<\/p>\n<p>In this case, the takeaway isn\u2019t just \u201crankings are up\u201d \u2014 it\u2019s that SEO is contributing directly to revenue growth.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_4_Showcase_the_Results\"><\/span>Step 4: Showcase the Results<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>A great SEO report doesn\u2019t overwhelm your reader \u2014 it guides them.<\/p>\n<p>It frames wins. Flags issues. And makes the next move crystal clear.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Executive_Summary\"><\/span>Executive Summary<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Start with a snapshot that shows where things stand.<\/p>\n<p>The Executive Summary gives a high-level view of key metrics and overall performance trends.<\/p>\n<p>So, stakeholders can get the big picture fast.<\/p>\n<p>Keep it sharp and clear. Spotlight what\u2019s working, what\u2019s driving it, and where to go from here.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Backlinko \u2013 SEO Report Template \u2013 Executive Summary\" alt=\"Backlinko \u2013 SEO Report Template \u2013 Executive Summary\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.52142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/backlinko-seo-report-executive-summary.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Performance_Metrics\"><\/span>Performance Metrics<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>This section covers your core SEO performance data \u2014 like traffic, rankings, keywords, and backlinks.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Backlinko \u2013 SEO Report Template \u2013 Organic Traffic\" alt=\"Backlinko \u2013 SEO Report Template \u2013 Organic Traffic\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.59\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/backlinko-seo-report-organic-traffic.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Include context and key takeaways.<\/p>\n<p>When showcasing trends, show the progress over time, not just one-off wins.<\/p>\n<p>And use visuals as much as possible.<\/p>\n<p>Charts, graphs, and annotated screenshots really can make your performance insights pop.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Backlinko \u2013 SEO Report Template \u2013 Backlinks\" alt=\"Backlinko \u2013 SEO Report Template \u2013 Backlinks\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.55857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/backlinko-seo-report-backlinks.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Next_Steps\"><\/span>Next Steps<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>What needs to be tackled next?<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s your chance to include those thoughts for your stakeholders.<\/p>\n<p>Include clear, actionable recommendations, like a fresh <a title=\"The 18-Step SEO Audit Checklist (+ Free Template)\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/seo-site-audit\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SEO audit<\/a> or doubling down on high-performing content.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Backlinko \u2013 SEO Report Template \u2013 Next Steps\" alt=\"Backlinko \u2013 SEO Report Template \u2013 Next Steps\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.54857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/backlinko-seo-report-next-steps.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Appendix\"><\/span>Appendix<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>This optional section includes deeper data for teams, stakeholders, and ongoing projects.<\/p>\n<p>It helps keep the main report focused, while still delivering the context others may need.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Backlinko \u2013 SEO Report Template \u2013 Appendix\" alt=\"Backlinko \u2013 SEO Report Template \u2013 Appendix\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.46142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/backlinko-seo-report-appendix.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Bonus move:<\/strong> Once your report is done, record a short walkthrough to present it. It\u2019s a great way to highlight key takeaways, explain the big picture, and guide stakeholders through anything they might overlook.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mistakes_to_Avoid_in_Your_SEO_Report\"><\/span>Mistakes to Avoid in Your SEO Report<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Even with the right data, your SEO report can still fall flat if it\u2019s hard to interpret, misaligned with business goals, or missing a clear takeaway.<\/p>\n<p>Here are some common mistakes to avoid \u2014 and how to fix them.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Reporting_Data_Without_Context\"><\/span>Reporting Data Without Context<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Don\u2019t just drop data into your report. Make it meaningful.<\/p>\n<p>Show how it relates to business goals and your site\u2019s overall SEO performance.<\/p>\n<p>For every metric, briefly explain what it means, why it matters, and what action it might prompt your team or your client to take.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Reporting Data Without Context\" alt=\"Reporting Data Without Context\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.20285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/reporting-data-without-context.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Surfacing_Issues_Without_Providing_Solutions\"><\/span>Surfacing Issues Without Providing Solutions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Reporting on every issue isn\u2019t helpful unless it impacts your site\u2019s SEO performance.<\/p>\n<p>For example, say you note that a group of pages are experiencing index issues.<\/p>\n<p>Include a hypothesis on why this is happening and how you might recommend fixing it.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Surfacing Issues Without Providing Solutions\" alt=\"Surfacing Issues Without Providing Solutions\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.20285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/surfacing-issues-without-providing-solutions.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Listing_Every_Keyword_Ranking\"><\/span>Listing Every Keyword Ranking<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>A full list of keyword shifts (especially minor ones) can bury your most important wins.<\/p>\n<p>Instead, spotlight high-impact keywords \u2014 non-branded terms driving traffic or tied to revenue pages.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Listing Every Keyword Ranking\" alt=\"Listing Every Keyword Ranking\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.25\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/listing-every-keyword-ranking.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Including_Every_Single_Page\"><\/span>Including Every. Single. Page.<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Reporting on every page creates noise, not insight.<\/p>\n<p>Focus on the top 10 pages for organic traffic, or spotlight the top page in each key topic cluster.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Including Every Single Page\" alt=\"Including Every Single Page\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.20285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/including-every-single-page.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ignoring_Business_Outcomes\"><\/span>Ignoring Business Outcomes<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Your report might show SEO progress. But, does it show <strong>business<\/strong> progress?<\/p>\n<p>Tie your work to signups, revenue, pipeline, brand visibility \u2014 whatever matters to your decision-makers.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Ignoring Business Outcomes\" alt=\"Ignoring Business Outcomes\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.20285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ignoring-business-outcomes.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Telling_Not_Showing\"><\/span>Telling, Not Showing<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>You shared the data. But did you explain the story?<\/p>\n<p>Use visuals, comparisons (e.g., MoM or QoQ), and commentary to walk the reader through what changed, why, and what\u2019s next.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Telling, Not Showing\" alt=\"Telling, Not Showing\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.20285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/telling-not-showing.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Show_the_Impact_Earn_the_Buy-In\"><\/span>Show the Impact. Earn the Buy-In.<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>SEO reporting isn\u2019t just about checking a box.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s your opportunity to show impact, earn trust, and steer strategy.<\/p>\n<p>Surface insights that get stakeholders aligned and excited about what\u2019s possible.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/03\/icon-remember-v2.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p>Want to make it easier on yourself?<\/p>\n<p>Download <a title=\"SEO Report Template \/\/ Backlinko\" href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/presentation\/d\/1uLT-ApnnWZ1QbO5_WT1M2sa2TNaJRzoYzZB_u3dAZ1I\/copy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Backlinko\u2019s free SEO report template<\/a> to create reports that stand out and get results.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/03\/icon-remember-v2.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>The post <a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/seo-report\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">How to Create an SEO Report That Wins Trust (and Budgets)<\/a> appeared first on <a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Backlinko<\/a>.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Most SEO reports go unread. Or, worse \u2014 they get skimmed, misunderstood, and ignored. But knowing how to create an SEO report that demands attention can change everything. It\u2019s not just a performance recap. It\u2019s a strategic tool that helps you build trust with decision-makers. Win bigger budgets. And keep your SEO efforts on track. In this article, you\u2019ll learn how to: Create SEO reports that people actually read (and act on) Tie SEO performance to business goals Highlight wins and uncover growth opportunities Free resource: [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":13404,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"h5ap_radio_sources":[],"cybocfi_hide_featured_image":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[8],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-13403","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-backlinko"],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/icon-tip-8aiXoY-600x400.png","featured_image_src_square":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/icon-tip-8aiXoY-600x600.png","author_info":{"display_name":false,"author_link":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/author\/craig\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13403","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=13403"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13403\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/13404"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=13403"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=13403"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=13403"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}