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How to choose an SEO company?

Are you still feeling uncertain, how to choose an SEO company for your online business? Before anything else, let’s see in what way a comprehensive search optimization strategy can drive your commercial website on the top of the SERPs. How to understand you are offered an excellent service? Considering the right agency nominee for hire, I recommend discussing the following matters:

  • make a successful to-do list you want to see accomplished by SEO strategy customized to your individual business goals;
  • ask all the necessary questions concerning implementing their SEO techniques in practice, request a “schedule” of your progress, as well as some illustrative case studies and testimonials from their former happy clients;
  • get their reporting procedures fully understood, don’t hesitate to figure out their reporting schedule, and exactly what statistical data they are betting on;
  • make sure they will never apply for any Black-Hat SEO or Grey-SEO techniques, even if such schemes seem quite promising, as violating Google’s guidelines your website will be penalized, sooner or later.

Understanding the very basics, let’s see how to choose an SEO company with a strong expertise to deliver you maximum improvement in online visibility. First of all, I’m going to help you shape the most realistic SEO goals for the business. These would-be benchmarks should be matching your long-term marketing expectations. Forget about the commonest deception about traffic - the more traffic you get, the more actual clients and more income your business is going to advance. Here is a typical sample of solid and constructive SEO goals:

  • increase public awareness of your business and improve your brand name authority;
  • achieve a long-term growth in commercial turnover of your business;
  • get a stable time framed progress in more email subscriptions, and any other means of customer engagement.

how to choose an seo company

How to choose an SEO company without wasting your time and effort? Unfortunately, there can’t be any single SEO solution or a universal action plan leading to a guaranteed success in your website online promotion. In fact, every search optimization strategy should be perfectly tailored to each specific business goals and needs individually. At the same time, SEO itself is an extensive and disputed study, particularly through the recent years. I mean there are no such things as secret maneuvers or somehow undisclosed techniques. Just working practices of White-Hat SEO, without any shady or manipulative elements of Grey-Hat SEO.

That way, any promising SEO company should have no troubles with answering any questions of yours, of course, if they have your best interests at heart. So, I recommend holding an open communication with a potential SEO agency for hire, so that you will have no doubts - either they are going to take care of your business, or nothing to it. Doing so, I recommend checking the company for only satisfactory answers on the following bullet points:

seo company

  • their main portfolio with the previous SEO projects to “speak” for the company’s competence;
  • current trends and practical implementation of the right keywords and key phrases relevant to your industry;
  • the global approach to SEO strategies, starting from short-term gains to stable ranking progress in a more extended run;
  • reporting methods with real-life examples for metrics review, quick-fix suggestions and more in-depth solutions of current top-importance.
Alexander Peresunko
Thank you all for reading my article on choosing an SEO company! I hope you found it helpful. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to ask.
Amy Smith
Great article, Alexander! It's important to make sure the SEO company you choose has a good track record. Can you provide some tips on how to assess their track record?
Alexander Peresunko
Thanks, Amy! Assessing an SEO company's track record is crucial. Look for case studies and client testimonials to see their past successes. You can also ask for references and reach out to previous clients to get their feedback.
Mark Johnson
I've heard horror stories of SEO companies using blackhat techniques that got websites penalized by search engines. How can we ensure the company we choose follows ethical practices?
Alexander Peresunko
That's a great concern, Mark. To ensure ethical practices, ask the SEO company about their approach to link building and content creation. Avoid companies that promise overnight results or use spammy techniques. A reliable company will focus on long-term strategies and follow industry best practices.
Jennifer Williams
I agree with you, Alexander. It's crucial to avoid companies that employ blackhat techniques. Such practices can lead to severe penalties and damage the reputation of your website.
Alexander Peresunko
Absolutely, Jennifer! Choosing an SEO company should be approached with caution to ensure long-term success and avoid negative consequences.
David Thompson
What role does communication play in choosing an SEO company? Is it important to have regular updates from them?
Alexander Peresunko
Excellent question, David. Communication is key when working with an SEO company. Regular updates on progress, reports, and open lines of communication ensure that both parties are on the same page and working towards the same goals. Make sure the company emphasizes communication in their approach.
Sarah Davis
I think it's also important to consider the cost when choosing an SEO company. How do we determine if the cost is reasonable?
Alexander Peresunko
You're right, Sarah. Cost is definitely a factor. When evaluating the cost, consider the services offered, the company's expertise, and the expected results. Be cautious of companies that offer extremely low prices, as they may provide subpar services. Compare multiple quotes and choose a company that offers a reasonable price for the value they provide.
Michael Anderson
In addition to the points mentioned, I believe it's essential to choose an SEO company that aligns with your business goals and understands your target audience. They should be able to tailor their strategies to suit your specific needs.
Alexander Peresunko
Absolutely, Michael! A good SEO company will take the time to understand your business objectives and develop strategies that align with them. Personalized approaches yield better results in the long run.
Emily Roberts
What are some warning signs that indicate we should avoid an SEO company?
Alexander Peresunko
Great question, Emily! Warning signs to watch out for include guaranteed #1 rankings, promises of overnight success, lack of transparency in their practices, and any company that refuses to provide references or show past success. Trust your instincts and avoid companies that raise red flags.
Ryan Thompson
I've heard people mention white-label SEO services. What exactly are those, and should we consider them?
Alexander Peresunko
White-label SEO services are when one company provides SEO services to another company that then sells those services as their own. It's a partnership where the SEO work is done behind the scenes. Whether to consider them depends on your specific needs and goals. It's important to research the white-label provider's reputation and ensure they maintain high standards.
Laura Miller
Thank you, Alexander, for this informative article. It has given me a clear understanding of what factors to consider when choosing an SEO company.
Alexander Peresunko
You're welcome, Laura! I'm glad it was helpful to you. Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any more questions.
Chris Wilson
One additional aspect I find crucial in selecting an SEO company is their ability to adapt to changes in search engine algorithms. How do we ensure they stay up to date with the latest trends?
Alexander Peresunko
Good point, Chris! Staying up to date with search engine algorithms is essential. Ask the SEO company how they keep themselves informed about the latest trends. Look for companies that invest in ongoing training and emphasize the importance of staying current with industry developments.
Daniel Rodriguez
I think it's crucial to have a clear understanding of the SEO tactics the company will use. Transparency is key!
Alexander Peresunko
Absolutely, Daniel! Transparency is vital in choosing an SEO company. Make sure they provide detailed information about their tactics and explain how their strategies align with your business goals.
Emma Johnson
I've seen some SEO companies claim they have a special relationship with search engines. Should we trust such claims?
Alexander Peresunko
Trusting SEO companies that make such claims can be risky, Emma. Search engines have specific guidelines that apply to everyone, and no company has an inside connection. It's better to choose a company that focuses on proven strategies and follows ethical practices.
Gregory Davis
Can we expect immediate results when working with an SEO company, or is it a long-term process?
Alexander Peresunko
Excellent question, Gregory! SEO is a long-term process that requires patience. It takes time for search engines to recognize and reward the optimization efforts. Be cautious of companies that promise immediate results, as they might engage in questionable practices.
Sophia Hernandez
I've come across some SEO companies that offer a 'money-back guarantee.' Should we consider them more reliable?
Alexander Peresunko
While a money-back guarantee might seem attractive, Sophia, it's important to assess the company's overall reputation, experience, and track record. Don't solely rely on the guarantee as a measure of reliability. Look for comprehensive indicators of their capabilities and trustworthiness.
Phil Thompson
Is it worth considering local SEO companies over larger, more well-known ones? Will they provide personalized attention?
Alexander Peresunko
Choosing between local and larger SEO companies depends on your specific requirements, Phil. Local companies can offer personalized attention and familiarity with the local market, but larger companies may have more resources and broader expertise. Consider your unique needs and evaluate the company's capabilities before making a decision.
Olivia Clark
What should we do if we're unsatisfied with the results achieved by our current SEO company?
Alexander Peresunko
If you're unsatisfied with your current SEO company, Olivia, it's important to address the issue directly with them and discuss your concerns. They should be willing to work with you to identify areas for improvement. If they fail to address the problems or you're unable to reach a resolution, it may be time to consider switching to a new company.
Alexis Wilson
I've heard about on-page and off-page SEO. Should we expect both services from an SEO company?
Alexander Peresunko
Great question, Alexis! A good SEO company should offer both on-page and off-page optimization services. On-page SEO focuses on optimizing the website's content and structure, while off-page SEO involves activities outside the website to improve its visibility. A comprehensive approach includes both aspects for better results.
Brian Turner
In your experience, Alexander, what are the most common mistakes businesses make when choosing an SEO company?
Alexander Peresunko
One common mistake, Brian, is solely focusing on price and choosing the cheapest option without considering the company's expertise and track record. Another mistake is failing to conduct thorough research and not checking references or past client experiences. It's essential to evaluate multiple factors and not prioritize cost over quality.
Mary Richardson
How long does it usually take to see significant improvements in search engine rankings after hiring an SEO company?
Alexander Peresunko
The time it takes to see significant improvements in search engine rankings can vary, Mary. It depends on the competitiveness of your industry, the state of your website, and the SEO strategies implemented. Generally, it takes a few months to start noticing improvements, but major progress can take six months to a year. Patience is key in SEO.
Eric Lewis
Should I choose an SEO company that specializes in my industry or one with a broader scope of expertise?
Alexander Peresunko
The decision between a specialized SEO company and one with a broader scope depends on your specific requirements, Eric. A specialized company may have a deeper understanding of your industry, but a broader expertise might offer fresh perspectives and insights. Consider the company's experience, success stories, and the ability to adapt strategies to different industries.
Joshua Roberts
How often should we expect reports or updates from the SEO company?
Alexander Peresunko
The frequency of reports and updates can vary, Joshua. It's best to discuss this with the SEO company and establish a communication plan that suits both parties. Regular updates on progress, rankings, and performance metrics are important to track the results of their SEO efforts.
Leah Thompson
I've seen some SEO companies promise a certain number of backlinks per month. Is it a valid metric to consider?
Alexander Peresunko
While the number of backlinks is a relevant metric, Leah, it's important to consider the quality of those backlinks. Focus on the company's approach to link building, ensuring they adhere to search engine guidelines. Quality and relevance of backlinks have a greater impact on SEO performance than sheer numbers.
Adam Walker
What if an SEO company guarantees an increase in website traffic, but we don't see any improvement?
Alexander Peresunko
If an SEO company guarantees an increase in website traffic but fails to deliver, Adam, it's essential to review the contract and discuss the issue with them. They should be willing to take necessary actions to rectify the situation or address your concerns. Open communication is key, and they should be accountable for their promises.
Lily Evans
How do we find trustworthy SEO companies? Are there any certifications or accreditations to look out for?
Alexander Peresunko
Finding trustworthy SEO companies requires thorough research, Lily. There is no universal certification or accreditation, but you can look for associations like SEMPO or certifications like Google Partner. However, certifications alone don't guarantee reliability. Check their experience, client reviews, case studies, and reputation to assess their trustworthiness.
Andrew Wilson
Is it worth choosing an SEO company that offers other digital marketing services, such as social media management or PPC?
Alexander Peresunko
The decision to choose an SEO company that offers additional digital marketing services depends on your specific needs, Andrew. It can be beneficial to have all services under one roof if you require integrated strategies. However, ensure that the company excels in each area and has a track record of successful execution in those disciplines.
Ethan Davis
I've heard about keyword research. Should an SEO company help with finding the right keywords for our business?
Alexander Peresunko
Keyword research is an important part of SEO, Ethan. A reliable SEO company should indeed assist in finding the right keywords for your business. They should conduct thorough research to identify keywords with good search volume and relevance to your target audience. Choosing the right keywords lays the foundation for successful optimization.
Sophie Anderson
What information should we provide an SEO company during the initial consultation?
Alexander Peresunko
During the initial consultation, Sophie, you should provide an overview of your business, your target audience, current online presence, and your SEO goals. The more information you provide, the better the SEO company can tailor their strategies to match your needs. Open and transparent communication is vital from the start.
Lucas Thompson
Is it possible to switch SEO companies if we're not satisfied with the results? Will it impact our website's SEO negatively?
Alexander Peresunko
Switching SEO companies is possible if you're not satisfied, Lucas. However, it's important to consider the impact it may have on your website's SEO. When transitioning, it's crucial to ensure a smooth transfer of knowledge and access to the necessary accounts. A reliable SEO company should assist you in this process to minimize any negative impact on your website's performance.
Sarah Miller
Do SEO companies provide guarantees? What should we expect in terms of commitments?
Alexander Peresunko
While guarantees can vary, Sarah, it's essential to understand that SEO results are influenced by numerous factors beyond a company's control. A reliable SEO company will provide commitments based on industry best practices and past experience, but they cannot guarantee specific rankings or outcomes. Be cautious of companies that make unrealistic promises.
Chris Thompson
How much involvement is expected from our side when we hire an SEO company?
Alexander Peresunko
Your involvement will vary, Chris, depending on your business goals and resources. Initially, you'll need to provide information about your business, target audience, and goals. Later, collaboration may involve reviewing strategies, providing access to necessary accounts, and sharing feedback on content. A good SEO company should guide you on your level of involvement throughout the process.
David Wilson
What are your thoughts on subcontracting SEO work to freelancers or other companies?
Alexander Peresunko
Subcontracting SEO work to freelancers or other companies can be a viable option, David. However, it's crucial to ensure the individuals or companies involved maintain high standards and adhere to ethical practices. Proper communication, accountability, and clear roles and responsibilities must be established to ensure a successful collaboration.
Lea Anderson
How can we measure the success of the SEO efforts? What metrics should we track?
Alexander Peresunko
Measuring SEO success involves tracking various metrics, Lea. Key metrics to consider include organic search traffic, search engine rankings for targeted keywords, conversions, bounce rate, and time on page. A successful SEO campaign should lead to increased organic traffic, improved rankings, and positive user engagement metrics.
Emma Wilson
Can an SEO company help with local SEO? What specific strategies should we expect?
Alexander Peresunko
Absolutely, Emma! An SEO company should be able to help with local SEO. Depending on your business, they may utilize strategies like optimizing your Google My Business listing, creating local citations, managing online reviews, and implementing location-specific keywords. The aim is to improve your visibility in local searches and attract relevant customers in your area.
Jacob White
How do we assess the ROI (Return on Investment) of SEO services?
Alexander Peresunko
Assessing the ROI of SEO services can involve tracking various metrics, Jacob. You can correlate increased organic traffic, rankings, and conversions with the investment made in SEO. By analyzing the impact on your overall business performance and comparing it to the costs incurred, you can determine the ROI. It's important to have realistic expectations and evaluate long-term results.
Sophia Thompson
What happens if our website gets penalized by search engines due to the SEO company's practices?
Alexander Peresunko
If your website gets penalized due to the SEO company's practices, Sophia, it's crucial to address the issue immediately. Discuss the situation with the company and request corrective actions. If necessary, seek advice from other experts or consider switching to a more reliable company. Prevention is key, so thoroughly research and choose an SEO company with a solid reputation.
Daniel Martin
Is it better to hire an SEO agency or have an in-house SEO team?
Alexander Peresunko
Whether to hire an SEO agency or have an in-house team depends on your business's specific needs and resources, Daniel. An agency can provide expertise, experience, and a broader perspective. On the other hand, an in-house team offers more control and ongoing collaboration. Carefully assess your requirements, budget, and availability of talent to make an informed decision.
Emily Thompson
Can social media presence affect SEO? Should an SEO company also handle social media?
Alexander Peresunko
Social media presence can indirectly impact SEO, Emily. While some SEO companies offer social media management, it's not always included in their services. Assess your goals and resources. If you want a comprehensive digital marketing approach, choose a company that offers both SEO and social media management. Otherwise, you can hire separate specialized agencies or handle social media internally.
Andrew Davis
Should I be concerned about algorithm updates made by search engines? How can an SEO company help us adapt to those changes?
Alexander Peresunko
Algorithm updates are important to stay aware of, Andrew. SEO companies should continuously monitor search engine updates and adapt their strategies accordingly. They should demonstrate a proactive approach to stay on top of changes and implement new tactics required by the updates. An SEO company's ability to adapt to these changes is crucial for maintaining and improving your website's performance.
Sophie Lewis
What can we expect in terms of reporting and analytics from an SEO company?
Alexander Peresunko
An SEO company should provide regular reporting and analytics, Sophie. They should outline the key metrics, provide transparent insights into your website's performance, and highlight areas of improvement. Reporting should be customized to your goals and include data on organic traffic, rankings, conversions, and other relevant metrics. Clear and comprehensive reporting ensures transparency and helps evaluate the effectiveness of their SEO efforts.
Michael Wilson
What kind of investment should we be prepared for when hiring an SEO company?
Alexander Peresunko
The investment required for hiring an SEO company varies, Michael, depending on the scope of work, your industry, and the competitiveness of your target keywords. It's important to allocate a budget that allows for quality services. Avoid extremely low-cost options, as they may provide subpar results. Request quotes from multiple companies and choose one that offers a reasonable price based on their expertise and the value they offer.
Lucas Richardson
Can you share some success stories of businesses that have seen significant improvements after hiring an SEO company?
Alexander Peresunko
Certainly, Lucas! Many businesses have seen significant improvements after hiring an SEO company. For example, a local bakery saw a 50% increase in website traffic and a corresponding rise in orders after optimizing their website and implementing local SEO strategies. Another e-commerce store experienced a 70% boost in organic search traffic and a 35% increase in conversions after comprehensive SEO efforts. These success stories highlight the potential impact of professional SEO services.
Emily Lewis
Is it possible to negotiate the terms and pricing with an SEO company?
Alexander Peresunko
Negotiating terms and pricing is possible to some extent with an SEO company, Emily. However, it's important to remember that quality SEO services require expertise and resources. Be cautious of companies that excessively lower their prices, as it may indicate subpar services. Focus on the value offered and the long-term benefits of an effective SEO strategy.
Oliver Clark
What kind of strategies should an SEO company use to improve website rankings?
Alexander Peresunko
An SEO company should utilize various strategies to improve website rankings, Oliver. These may include optimizing on-page elements like meta tags, headings, and content structure. They may also focus on building high-quality backlinks, conducting thorough keyword research, improving website speed and mobile-friendliness, and creating valuable content. The specific strategies should align with your business goals, target audience, and industry.
Mila Anderson
Are there any red flags to watch out for when evaluating an SEO company?
Alexander Peresunko
There are several red flags to watch out for, Mila. These include unrealistic promises of instant results, guarantees of specific rankings, practicing blackhat techniques, refusal to provide references or show past success, lack of transparency in communication or reporting, and extremely low prices compared to industry standards. Trust your instincts and thoroughly evaluate companies before making a decision.
Jessica Turner
Can SEO companies help with website design and user experience improvements?
Alexander Peresunko
While SEO companies can offer guidance on website design and user experience improvements, Jessica, their primary focus is optimizing for search engines. It's advisable to work with specialized web designers or agencies that excel in user experience (UX) and website design. However, collaboration between SEO and UX experts is beneficial for ensuring a holistic approach to website success.
Sophia White
Are there any risks associated with SEO that we should be aware of?
Alexander Peresunko
SEO does come with some inherent risks, Sophia. Engaging with unreliable or unethical SEO practices can result in penalties from search engines, negatively impacting your website's visibility and reputation. It's crucial to choose a reputable SEO company and ensure their strategies align with search engine guidelines. Staying informed and vigilant helps mitigate potential risks.
Jack Thompson
Is it possible to conduct SEO activities in-house without hiring an external company?
Alexander Peresunko
Conducting SEO activities in-house is possible, Jack, especially for smaller businesses. However, it requires a dedicated team with the necessary skills and expertise in SEO. Keep in mind that SEO is an ongoing process that requires continuous monitoring, adaptability, and staying up to date with industry trends. Evaluate your resources and the complexity of SEO tasks before deciding whether to handle it in-house or engage an external company.
Sophie Davis
What are some indicators of a successful SEO campaign?
Alexander Peresunko
Indicators of a successful SEO campaign include improved search engine rankings for target keywords, increased organic traffic, higher conversion rates, improved website visibility, positive user engagement metrics, and ultimately, growth in your business. Regular monitoring and analysis of key performance indicators help track the success of an SEO campaign and identify areas for further optimization.
John Wilson
Can we expect ongoing support from an SEO company after the initial optimization phase?
Alexander Peresunko
Absolutely, John! A reliable SEO company should provide ongoing support even after the initial optimization phase. SEO is an ongoing process that requires continuous monitoring, adjustments, and adaptation to stay ahead. They should be available for consultations, provide updates, and make recommendations based on changes in search engine algorithms and your business goals.
Alexander Peresunko
Thank you everyone for your engaging questions and comments! I appreciate your participation in this discussion. If you have any further inquiries, feel free to reach out. Wishing you all the best with your SEO endeavors!
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