Felix Stenzel

Why this persona fits the audience

Works with 8 retained clients and tracks where each client and their competitors appear in search, Reddit discussions, and AI-generated answers. Uses Semrush, Google Alerts, and a large spreadsheet to review mentions and gaps across accounts.

• Age: 42
• Location: Cologne, Germany
• Occupation: SEO consultant
• Income: €84,000 EUR self-employed income
• Education: Diploma in Business Administration
• Company size: Sole proprietor
• Years in role: 12

“The real value isn't just showing up; it's understanding precisely *where* and *why* you're showing up, or not showing up at all.”

Felix Stenzel, 42, is a seasoned freelance SEO consultant based in Cologne, Germany, who has carved out a niche serving small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs). Holding a Diploma in Business Administration, he transitioned into digital marketing over a decade ago, finding his forte in the intricate world of search engine optimization. His professional journey has been characterized by a relentless pursuit of understanding how businesses are found online, a drive amplified by the evolving digital landscape. Felix operates as a sole proprietor, managing 8 retained clients, a roster built through consistent performance and word-of-mouth referrals. His core methodology involves a deep dive into client and competitor visibility, meticulously tracking their presence not only on traditional search engines but also within the increasingly important realms of Reddit discussions and AI-generated answers. This comprehensive approach is enabled by his adept use of tools like Semrush for in-depth analysis and Google Alerts for real-time monitoring, all synthesized within a complex, self-maintained spreadsheet system that acts as his central command center. Felix's decision to focus on this granular level of tracking stems from his belief that true competitive advantage lies in understanding the nuances of buyer discovery channels. He recently decided to invest more time in refining his AI monitoring capabilities, recognizing its growing impact on search behavior, even if it means a steeper learning curve and more complex data integration. His income of €84,000 EUR as a self-employed professional reflects his dedication and the specialized value he provides, allowing him to maintain a high degree of independence. He views his work not just as a service, but as a precise science, where reliability and accuracy are paramount to building and sustaining client trust. His personal finances are managed with similar precision, prioritizing savings and reinvestment in his business over discretionary spending, a reflection of his long-term perspective and commitment to stability.

Background & daily life

A day in their life

Felix's typical weekday begins around 7:00 AM with a strong coffee and a review of overnight Google Alerts. After a quick breakfast, he heads to his home office, often cycling if the weather permits. The morning is dedicated to deep work: analyzing competitor data for Client A, optimizing a local search campaign for Client B, or refining his tracking spreadsheet. Lunch is usually a simple, pre-prepared meal. Afternoons involve client calls, responding to emails, and tackling less intensive tasks like updating website performance metrics or researching new SEO tools. He aims to wrap up by 6:00 PM, often followed by a bike ride or a quiet evening reading industry news or technical documentation.

Lifestyle

Felix lives a structured but independent life in Cologne. His apartment is functional and tidy, reflecting his preference for order. He prioritizes his health, cycling to client meetings when feasible and preparing most of his meals to control ingredients and costs. While not overtly social, he maintains a small circle of close friends and enjoys occasional meetups at a local brewery. His financial approach is conservative; he saves diligently, viewing his income as a reward for consistent effort and a means to maintain his autonomy. He finds satisfaction in optimizing his routines, from his morning coffee ritual to his evening review of client data.

Work life

As a freelance SEO consultant, Felix's workdays are a blend of deep analytical dives and client communication. He manages 8 retained clients, each requiring distinct strategies. His core activity involves meticulously tracking their visibility across search engines, Reddit conversations, and increasingly, AI-generated responses. He relies heavily on Semrush for keyword research and competitor analysis, Google Alerts for real-time mentions, and a sprawling, custom-built spreadsheet system to consolidate and cross-reference data. The pressure comes from demonstrating tangible ROI to SMBs who are often budget-conscious and have limited technical understanding. He spends significant time identifying overlooked opportunities and potential brand threats.

Relationships

Felix maintains a professional but cordial relationship with his clients, built on consistent delivery and clear communication. His primary social connections are with a few long-term friends from university, with whom he shares interests in technology and cycling. He has a good rapport with his parents, who live in a nearby town, and visits them monthly. He doesn't have a romantic partner currently, prioritizing his work and personal routines.

How they decide

Felix is a highly analytical and research-driven decision-maker. He meticulously gathers data, weighs pros and cons, and often creates spreadsheets or outlines to compare options. He values evidence and logic, preferring solutions that are demonstrably effective and efficient. While he trusts his own judgment, he will consult industry resources and peer discussions if faced with a novel or complex problem, but ultimately relies on his own rigorous evaluation.

How they sound

Speaks with a clear, measured cadence, typical of educated German professionals. Avoids slang and overly casual language in professional contexts. His tone is generally calm and factual, occasionally showing enthusiasm when discussing technical SEO intricacies. He uses precise terminology and prefers direct, unambiguous communication. He might occasionally use a mild German interjection like 'Ach so' when understanding a new point.