Who doesn’t want to work with the best? I mean seriously, if you’re going to invest in SEO, you might as well work with someone who can deliver on their promises. But what does it take to be the best?
Before looking at the characteristics, it’s important to understand how SEO works. Clearly how are you going to find an expert if you don’t even know the basics – here’s a quick presentation to get you up to speed:
Next up, characteristics should you be looking for?
#1. Analytical – SEO is a strategic business that requires a highly analytical mind. So, if your SEO isn’t looking at the numbers and if they’re not data driven – you’re destined to fail. SEO is more science than art – so choose someone who focuses on the results.
#2. Responsive – Yes, SEO companies are busy – every one is busy these days. That said, you’re the customer and there’s no excuse for being unresponsive. The best SEO companies will keep their clients informed with weekly updates and monthly reports.
#3. Flexibility – The best SEO companies understand that each SEO campaign is unique – you don’t want to reply heavily on one particular method. These days it takes a range of strategies to win – from SEO to content marketing to social media to SEM – you want an SEO that’s flexible enough to find what’s working now.
#4. Transparent – Smoke and mirrors play no part in a successful SEO campaign. The best SEO companies should be able to explain in language anyone can understand. what they are doing. If they use fancy terminology, gloss over the details and/or overwhelm you with useless data – run in the opposite direction.
#5. Consistency – SEO isn’t a quick fix and requires attention over a long period of time to get results. As such, keep a close eye on your SEO, all too often SEOs over deliver in the early days but then by month 2-3, they start to be a little less reliable. Keep them focused and consistently working towards your goals.
#6. Open minded – Digital marketing is a changing landscape and no one knows everything. Any good SEO will be a student and always open to hearing of new techniques and strategies. Find out what they’re learning and ensure they’re staying on top of their game.
#7. Deliver Results – Ultimately the best measure the stature of an SEO company comes down to whether they deliver or not. Here are a few deliverables you should be expecting to see results in…
The goal is to find a long term partner who gets to know your business and delivers measurable results.
Often times the final question people ask is “how much should I pay an SEO?” Check out our FREE quote calculator for some ranges.