How To Choose The Right SEO Agency

Choosing a SEO company is not easy. Choosing a GOOD SEO company is even harder. 

Here, I’ve outlined the few things you should keep in mind when looking for a SEO company, how to find a good fit for your organization, and what questions to ask before you sign a contract.

3 things to keep in mind when looking for a SEO company.

1. The best SEO companies do NOT discount their services. 

Getting a good deal on SEO is not the right way to go. Cheap SEO does not equal results. Good SEOs know their value and will charge what their services are worth.

2. SEO is more often than not a long-term strategy. 

If a SEO agency or consultant claims to be able to get your website to rank #1 for a number of valuable keywords quickly, they’re probably not the right SEO partner for you. (Because in SO many ways that statement is false.) According to Moz, it takes 10 weeks on average to see 1 rank jump.

3. Find a partner that is willing to take the time to learn your business. 

Good SEO takes in-depth research, a deep understanding of how your customers find you, and where to put the most time and energy for the best results.

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So, how do you start looking for a SEO partner?

To find a SEO company please don’t start by Googling “best SEO agency near me.” Think about it – the SEO companies that do great work don’t need to consistently rank in the top spots on Google. They get their business from referrals. So, instead of Googling ask for recommendations. 

3 ways to get recommendations for SEO companies.

• Ask your friends which SEO companies they have used.
• Go on LinkedIn and ask for recommendations from peers in your industry.
• Ask companies like yours, that aren’t your competitors, who they use. 

Once you get a few recommendations it’s time to start asking questions. Here are a few questions you can ask a potential SEO partner. 

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7 questions to ask a potential SEO partner.

1. What is your approach to SEO?

SEO companies may have slightly different approaches to SEO. That’s OK. However, you do want to ensure they’re approaching your organization’s SEO holistically. Some things that could be included in their approach:

• SEO Audit (including technical SEO and content SEO recommendations)
• Off-site recommendations (could include Google My Business, YouTube, Knowledge Panels, social media, and more)
• Keyword research
• Content plan
• Reporting

2. Can I see an example of your reporting?

I put this question second because it is one of the most important to ask. Reporting is the backbone of any digital marketing initiative. Your SEO partner should provide you with clear, consistent reporting so you understand how their efforts are paying off. 

3. How many people will be working on my account? And, who are they?

It’s important to understand the level of time and effort being put on your account, as well as the level of experience of the people managing your account. 

4. How do you handle issues that arise?

There are a couple aspects to this. 

• First, your SEO partner should be monitoring your organization’s progress regularly. So much so, that if an issue arises they can bring it to your attention right away. For example, if Google’s algorithm changes and it could affect your rankings, they should update you on that risk.
• Second, if you are constantly auditing your own SEO and are finding issues and opportunities yourself – this is a clear red flag. You hired a company to do this for you, so you shouldn’t have to manage it yourself. 

5. How do you communicate with clients?

Make sure your communication styles and the frequency of communication matches with your organization. 

6. Can you provide referrals from current clients?

Ask any potential SEO company for referrals. They should be able to put you in touch with a current client that can tell you how they like working with them. 

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So, what does this all come down to?

What this all comes down to is finding a good SEO company is difficult. SEO in general is complicated and it takes time. So, it’s important that you arm yourself with enough knowledge that you can hold your SEO partner accountable and find a great partner you can trust. 

If you have questions about SEO or how to find a SEO company, send a note to amanda@therosedigital.com. I’m here to help.