What Does an SEO Company Do?The Complete Guide to Choosing the Right SEO Company
What Does an SEO Company Do?The Complete Guide to Choosing the Right SEO Company
01 Nov 2023
Search engine optimization (SEO) is crucial for improving your website’s visibility and traffic from search engines. But SEO requires specialized skills and extensive effort to be effective. That’s why most businesses rely on an experienced SEO company to handle their search optimization and achieve real results.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about choosing the right SEO company for your business, including:
What Does an SEO Company Do?
Key Benefits of Hiring an SEO Company
SEO Company Services to Look For
Warning Signs of Bad SEO Companies
Step-by-Step Process for Choosing an SEO Company
Questions to Ask SEO Company Candidates
Tips for Assessing an SEO Company’s Track Record
Red Flags to Avoid When Selecting an SEO Company
What Does an SEO Company Do?
SEO companies are service providers that use various techniques to improve websites’ organic search engine rankings, traffic, and conversions. Their expert SEO service agents focus on areas like:
On-page optimization Optimizing title tags, meta descriptions, content, etc.
Keyword research Identifying high-value search terms.
Link building Earning high-quality backlinks from other sites.
Technical SEO Improving site speed, security, mobile optimization.
Content creation Producing blog posts and other assets to attract visitors.
Local SEO Optimizing for searches within specific geographic regions.
Reporting & analysis Tracking keyword rankings, traffic, ROI of SEO efforts.
Key Benefits of Hiring an SEO Company
There are many advantages to hiring an SEO company over attempting DIY SEO:
Get access to SEO expertise They stay current on best practices.
Save time Don’t distract your in-house team with constant SEO work.
Increase organic traffic Earn higher search rankings and visibility.
Unbiased insights SEO companies provide an outside perspective.
Improved efficiency SEO firms have more resources and technology.
Ongoing optimization Reap the benefits of continuous improvement.
Peace of mind Trust your site to experienced professionals.
SEO Company Services to Look For
Not all SEO companies offer the same services. When researching providers, look for these core services:
Keyword research & targeting
On-page optimization
Link building & digital PR
Site speed optimization
Local SEO capabilities
Content marketing integration
Reputation monitoring
Competitive analysis
Ranking & performance reporting
Companies that go beyond just basic SEO and also provide website design, content creation, paid ads, and more offer extra value.
Warning Signs of Bad SEO Companies
Be cautious of SEO companies that:
Promise instant #1 rankings or guaranteed results
Use black hat techniques like keyword stuffing
Hide pricing and packages
Lack proof of past client results
Can’t explain their optimization methods
Don’t offer reporting or analytics
Step-by-Step Guide for Choosing an SEO Company
Follow these steps when researching and selecting an SEO services company:
1. Define your goals, budget, timeline, and target keywords. Know what you want to accomplish.
2. Search online listings and ask businesses you trust for referrals. Compile a list of potential SEO companies.
3. Evaluate SEO company websites, portfolios, client results, reviews, and case studies.
4. Interview your top SEO company candidates and ask key questions (see below).
5. Compare SEO company proposals, pricing, and services.
6. Check references to confirm satisfaction with the SEO company.
7. Select the SEO company that best aligns with your needs and goals.
Questions to Ask SEO Company Candidates
During interviews and consultations, get answers to these types of questions:
What is your experience in my industry and location?
What is your optimization process and methodology?
How do you track and report on keyword rankings and traffic?
What types of results have you produced for other clients?
How can we track the ROI of your SEO services?
Will you focus on long-term white hat SEO strategies?
What other services (content, web design, etc.) do you offer?
What are your SEO pricing, contracts, and billing?
Who handles our account and how often do we meet?
Tips for Assessing an SEO Company’s Track Record
Look for these signs of a reputable SEO company with a proven track record:
Many years (5+ minimum) spent providing SEO services
Strong client retention and case studies
Positive reviews on third-party sites
Awards for excellence and service quality
Originate most of their backlinks (not bought or artificial)
Website ranks well for competitive SEO keywords
Let our award-winning SEO company optimize your website and deliver the first page rankings your business deserves! Contact us for help choosing the right SEO services provider.