Pick up a copy of Danny Dover's Search Engine Optimization Secrets. It's a great resource for a new SEO freelancer. Study his chapter on freelance rated :-)

Well i guess im gonna have to do this on my own once i get them out of the picture. Guess ill be reading SEOmoz guide then diving into Search-Engine-Optimization-SEO-Secrets

This book sits on my desk and I loan it out to new hires and interns often. Still relevant for doing techinical audits, understanding how to view the web, and a great launching point for any SEO career.

http://www.amazon.com/Search-Engine-Optimization-SEO-Secrets/dp/0470554185

I also add these two:

1. Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Secrets

https://www.amazon.com/Search-Engine-Optimization-SEO-Secrets/dp/0470554185/

2. Ultimate Guide to Link Building: How to Build Backlinks, Authority and Credibility for Your Website

https://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-Guide-Link-Building-Credibility/dp/1599184427/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1492104666&sr=1-1&keywords=the+ultimate+guide+to+link+building

Another note: check backlinks using Google Search Console. Look for junk links---you might have some that OSE didn't detect. And check the backlinks of the #1 and #2 spot.

And finally, buy a book on advanced SEO. There's one by Danny Dover that I recommend reading: http://www.amazon.com/Search-Engine-Optimization-SEO-Secrets/dp/0470554185/. It gives you steps to follow for troubleshooting certain scenarios.