Folks, I oversee a small business, in need of an SEO service. Have been burned in the past. I have also had good service in the past (as an aside my good SEO guy disappeared a few years ago, it was very odd). I have read SEO books and subscribe to SEO feeds. I know a bit about it and can do the basics on my own but I simply do not have the time to learn/run SEO on my own given that I have other job duties. I need white hat and I don't need results right away. Quality is what I seek. Willing to pay but I don't want to break the bank. At some point it becomes not worth it.Questions, when shopping for an SEO service
- What are warning signs I should be on the lookout for?
- Any checklists/criteria/specific questions to ask?
- Whats a reasonable price? I realize this varies dramatically. Its a small service based business. Four employees.
-Anything else I am missing? Also feel free to pm or otherwise share referrals.
Thanks in advance.
Here’s how to pick a quality SEO firm, keeping in mind the need for white-hat techniques and a reasonable price for a small business:
Warning Signs:
- Guarantees of Top Rankings: Be wary of firms promising top rankings in a short timeframe. Legitimate SEO takes time, and search engine algorithms are constantly evolving.
- “Black Hat” Tactics: Avoid firms that use unethical methods like keyword stuffing, link farming, or hidden text. These tactics can lead to penalties from search engines.
- Lack of Transparency: A reputable firm will be transparent about their strategies and provide regular reports on their progress.
- Low Prices: While you don’t want to break the bank, be cautious of extremely low prices. These firms may lack experience or employ unethical practices to cut costs.
Checklist and Criteria:
- Experience and Expertise: Look for a firm with proven experience in your industry and a strong understanding of search engine algorithms.
- Client References: Request case studies or testimonials from previous clients to see the results they have achieved.
- Clear Communication: A good SEO firm will communicate clearly, setting realistic expectations and providing regular updates on progress.
- White-Hat Practices: Ensure the firm emphasizes ethical SEO techniques that comply with search engine guidelines.
- Focus on Long-Term Growth: A quality firm will focus on sustainable strategies that will benefit your website in the long run, not just short-term gains.
Specific Questions to Ask:
- What are your SEO strategies?
- How will you measure success?
- What are your reporting procedures?
- Do you offer a contract with clear terms and conditions?
- What are your fees and payment terms?
- Can you provide case studies or client testimonials?
Reasonable Price:
Prices for SEO services vary widely depending on the scope of work, industry, and firm’s expertise. A small business can expect to pay a few hundred dollars per month, though more complex projects may require a higher investment. Be sure to discuss the pricing structure upfront to avoid surprises.
Other Considerations:
- Your Own Involvement: While you don’t have to be an SEO expert, understand the basics and stay involved in the process.
- Don’t Expect Instant Results: SEO takes time, so be patient and consistent with your efforts.
- Build Relationships: Find a firm you can trust and build a long-term relationship with.
Remember, a quality SEO firm will focus on long-term growth and help you build a strong online presence.