To ensure the success of your company, there are specific preliminary steps you need to take to make sure you have the right individuals working on your website and driving qualified leads through an effective marketing plan.
Think of an SEO company as an extension of your team. It’s important to find a team that is not only experienced but also one you can communicate with regularly and get along well with.
How to Choose an SEO Company: 7 Key Factors
1- Specialties and services
Examine the SEO company’s website to determine if they specialize in a particular industry, location, or service line. Look for case studies and information about the services they offer.
Questions to ask:
- Do you specialize in any particular industry, location, or service?
- Do you offer services beyond SEO?
2- Reviews and references
Research the SEO companies you are considering by checking review websites like Google and Facebook. Additionally, visit websites such as Design Rush, Clutch, and UpCity for more detailed reviews and information. It may be helpful to collect references from the SEO company’s past clients and reach out to them for firsthand testimonials about their experience.
Questions to ask current clients:
- What do you appreciate most about this SEO company?
- In your opinion, what could this SEO company improve on?
- Have you worked with other SEO companies in the past?
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3- Portfolio and case studies
Review the portfolio and case studies of the SEO company to gain insight into their previous work and the results they have achieved for their clients. Pay attention to how they integrate other services like pay-per-click (PPC), social media, and web design with their SEO strategies.
Questions to ask:
- Can you provide case studies that align with our business?
- If we want to add PPC or social media services later, is it possible?
4- Experience and ethics
Research the SEO company’s team members and leadership on platforms like LinkedIn to learn more about their backgrounds and gather information. Consider the company’s values and whether they align with your own. Ensure that the company follows ethical practices and does not engage in tactics that could harm your website or online reputation.
Questions to ask:
- Who will be working on our account?
- What are the company’s core values?
- Do you follow an established SEO code of ethics?
5- Follow them on social media and read their blog
Get a sense of the SEO company’s tone, knowledge, and priorities by following them on platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn. Reading their blog posts and subscribing to their email newsletters can provide additional insights. Keep in mind that their content may be geared towards professionals in the advertising and marketing industry.
6- Fees and contracts
Inquire about the fees and expected deliverables of the SEO company. Compare prices across multiple companies to ensure a competitive rate. Remember that the cheapest option may not provide the best quality. Look for companies that are attentive to your goals and objectives and provide a personalized experience.
Questions to ask:
- What are your fees?
- Is the payment month-to-month or for a certain number of months?
- What is the procedure for canceling services?
7- Schedule a consultation
Before finalizing your decision, schedule a meeting with the SEO company to learn more about their process. If possible, speak with an SEO specialist who will be involved in your project. Some companies may offer a free website audit or initial research to demonstrate their value.
If you are searching for a reputable SEO company to help you achieve your online marketing goals, consider contacting Online Ethos. We offer trustworthy and future-proof SEO services to elevate your business in search engine results.