Are you aware that 70% of small businesses don’t have an SEO strategy? As online visibility becomes crucial, you won’t get too far without the right SEO tactics.
The majority of online experiences start with a search. This is why businesses must do everything in their power to secure a spot at the top of the search engine results pages (SERPS).
SEO is one way to attract more customers, but how do you even start?
An SEO agency is what you’re after. If you don’t know what to look for though, you could face some severe consequences.
In this guide, we’ll inform you of what to look for in an SEO agency and what to avoid. We’ll then discuss terms to look out for in your research. Read on to get the inside scoop on the subject.
Define Your Goals
Without first defining your SEO goals as a business, it’ll be challenging to know what you’re looking for from an agency. For instance, are you looking to increase website traffic, improve search engine rankings, or focus on targeted lead generation and conversions?
It comes down to your business objectives and expected outcomes. Once you know both, you’ll be able to communicate them with your desired SEO agency.
Research and Referrals
At first, you may feel overwhelmed by the many agencies and SEO services that they offer. Start by doing a quick Google search and see which ones have a proven track record and positive client testimonials.
The SEO agency should be proud of the work they do, so head to their site to check out their testimonials. This will give you a glimpse into what other customers’ experiences have been.
Then narrow down your search even further by reaching out to your business network and industry peers. Odds are they’ve had positive experiences with particular SEO agencies. Ask for referrals since they can be invaluable in your search.
Evaluate Experience and Expertise
You want to work with an SEO agency that is familiar with the industry or niche. They will be able to navigate any problems or challenges that may arise along the way and will have a roadmap on how to devise the most effective strategies possible.
Take a look at their team to see if they have the right staff to handle the job. Anything short of this should be considered a red flag.
You want to know who you’re working with and their credentials. The SEO agency should happily display their team members on their site with a blurb about each one.
Check Their Portfolio and Case Studies
One of the best ways to see how an SEO agency will perform is to scope out their portfolio. A solid SEO agency will be proud of the work they’ve produced.
You’ll also get a snapshot of the industries and niches they provide. Check the results of a similar business to yours and take it from there. Look for success stories that align with your business objectives.
Transparent Communication and Reporting
In any business relationship, communication is key. This comes down to frequency and style. You want to ensure that the SEO agency you decide on ticks these boxes and matches yours.
You also want an SEO agency to be transparent in its approach. They should provide regular reporting on the progress of your SEO campaigns. This will allow you to monitor the impact of their efforts and make informed decisions for your company.
White Hat Practices
Any agency that promises quick fixes or guarantees instant results should be avoided at all costs. Opt for agencies that follow ethical and white hat SEO practices.
Unethical techniques can lead to severe penalties from search engines and damage your online reputation.
Customized Strategies and Flexibility
You’ll also want to bring on an agency that is flexible in their delivery. A one-size-fits-all approach with SEO may not yield the results you’re after.
The best SEO agencies know this and can offer personalized strategies tailored to your business. They’ll be able to adapt to any changes that may occur.
Budget and ROI
If you’re serious about your business (and we know you are), don’t cut costs or corners. Instead, you should be focusing on the potential return on investment (ROI).
While you should stick to your budget, the cheapest option will not yield you those results (i.e., you get what you pay for).
Look for long-term benefits, not just short-term gains.
Contract Terms and Duration
Carefully review the contract terms and duration before signing with an agency. Ensure that you have a clear understanding of the services, including payment schedules and any exit clauses, should the partnership not meet expectations.
Long-Term Partnership
SEO is an ongoing process. This is because algorithms change, so you must be diligent in your approach. Results take time to achieve, so find an agency that is committed to building a trusting long-term partnership.
You want one that will continuously improve your online presence.
Terms to be Aware Of
Now that you know what to look for in an SEO agency, there are a few terms you want to be aware of. Let’s take a look at a few of them below.
SEM
SEM stands for search engine marketing. It is the use of paid advertising campaigns on search engines to increase a website’s visibility and attract targeted traffic. It involves strategies like pay-per-click (PPC) advertising.
Reputation Management
Reputation management involves monitoring and influencing the online reputation of a brand or individual. It includes addressing customer feedback, managing online reviews, and ensuring a positive image across various platforms.
ROAS
ROAS stands for return on advertising spend. It is a metric used to measure the revenue generated from a specific advertising campaign compared to the amount spent on that campaign. It helps businesses evaluate the effectiveness of their advertising efforts.
PPC
PPC stands for pay-per-click. It is an online advertising model where advertisers pay a fee each time a user clicks on their ad. It is commonly used in search engine advertising and social media advertising.
CPC
CPC stands for cost-per-click. It is the cost an advertiser pays for each click on their ad in a pay-per-click advertising campaign. It helps determine the actual cost of driving traffic to a website.
Rise to the Top with Our SEO Agency
Finding the right SEO agency can be a game changer for your business. When you find one, you’ll propel yourself ahead of the competition in the digital landscape.
The good news is that you’re already where you want to be! Red Stone Studio will provide you with SEO services, including lead generation, reputation management, and Facebook marketing. Contact us to get started working together.
