Choosing a full-service SEO agency is difficult; choosing a good is even more difficult. It can be difficult to find a company that you can entrust with something as important as your web presence, but there are many excellent companies out there!
Don’t worry if you’re wondering how to choose an SEO company. SEO Melbourne has conducted research on how to select the best SEO company.
SEO Company Melbourne has recently analyzed review data at Clutch, a platform for reviews of SEO and digital marketing services companies, to understand what methods companies use most frequently to find their SEO partners.
Learn how businesses like yours select SEO agencies, as well as what to look for in an SEO firm, in the sections below. You can also make the research and vetting process easier by reading our tips for finding the best SEO company!
How do businesses select an SEO firm?
It depends on several factors:
Factor 1: Referrals and pre-existing relationships
Referrals and previously established relationships were cited as a major reason by 45 percent of reviewers. This makes sense because businesses may be unfamiliar with SEO services and, as a result, rely on the experiences of trusted friends and colleagues.
Factor 2: SEO firm expertise and processes
The knowledge and processes of the company are the second most important factors in selecting an SEO company. Customer service, thought leadership, staff experience, reporting, and transparency are all part of this.
Factor 3: Case studies, client references, and online reviews are all important factors to consider.
Past performance, which is closely related to company knowledge and processes, includes specific evidence such as case studies, client references, and online reviews, all of which indicate previous success.
Select a Reputable SEO Company
When it comes to selecting an SEO company, you want to proceed with caution and logic.
If you rush through the process, you will most likely sign with an agency that does not meet your expectations, which can result in a frustrating experience that does not help you drive traffic, leads, or sales from search.
With these three steps, you can learn how to choose an SEO company (and avoid the above scenario):
1. Examine the SEO agency’s previous performance.
Not only do SEO agencies care about performance, but so do businesses like yours.
People look at your company’s past work to see if you can deliver. You should do the same when selecting an SEO firm. Examine their previous performance, whether via portfolio examples, case studies, industry awards, or client testimonials.
“Past and proven performance is the most important factor, in my opinion, when someone is looking for an SEO partner,” says Trevin Shirey, an experienced SEO and Director of Business Development at WebFX.
With concrete proof of an SEO agency’s performance, your company can confidently enter into a consultation or partnership. You are aware that you are selecting a good SEO company to help you achieve your business growth objectives.
2. Inquire with previous or current clients about their experiences.
Following that, you should contact previous or current clients.
Reading testimonials and conducting in-depth interviews can assist your company in gaining insight into the client experience. You can learn about the agency’s strengths and weaknesses, as well as get a sneak peek at the strategy and reporting process.
You can also answer some common questions, such as:
How quickly does the agency respond to phone calls or emails?
Do clients have a single point of contact or several?
How much time do clients have to devote to reviewing reports and making strategic decisions?
All of this information can assist your company in selecting the best SEO agency for you. It can also help you narrow down your options. You can concentrate your efforts and time on SEO companies that meet all of your requirements.
3. Meet with the SEO firm and ask questions
The final step in determining how to choose an SEO company is to meet with potential agencies.
You should meet with an SEO agency before signing a contract with them. Whether you meet in person or virtually, such as via video conference, that face-to-face meeting can help your team determine whether they are the right SEO company for you.
Make a list of questions to ask potential agencies when you meet with them.
Here are a few examples of questions to ask when selecting an SEO company:
What background do you have in the industry in which our company operates?
When can we expect to see the results?
What are the prices for your SEO services?
Brainstorm various questions with your team and company leaders for the best meet-and-greet. While your team may be concerned with strategy and reporting, your decision-makers may be concerned with pricing and return on investment (ROI).
4 additional hints for locating the best SEO company
These suggestions are based on the key factors that we heard repeatedly in our interviews with businesses that have already partnered with SEO agencies. So, if you’re wondering what to look for in an SEO firm, consider the following:
Evidence of previous successful performance.
High levels of transparency and reporting.
Customer service and focus.
Leadership in thought and knowledge transfer.
Pricing that is tailored to your needs and is reasonable.
Specialization in the required service.