Yesterday, we went over 5 questions you should ask before you hire a search engine optimization consultant. Now, we’ll go over the next 5.
6. Why is your own PageRank low?
Occasionally, search engine optimization (SEO) websites may display a lower PageRank, but have a sound design with relevant and useful information. PageRank alone will not determine the quality of the firm’s expertise. Reasons for low PageRank include the firm having a new website or a recent domain shift. Another reason is that the company may be busy optimizing client sites rather than optimizing their own content and working on link strategies.
7. Who are your competitors?
A good firm will provide details about their competition with you. But don’t expect them to refer you to another search engine optimization (SEO) firm if your prospective partnership isn’t a match.
8. Why are you qualified?
Even though a prospective firm is young, it doesn’t mean they are unqualified to help you with search engine optimization (SEO). Learn about what qualifications and certifications the staff has. If you’re looking for PPC services as well, look for Google and Yahoo certifications.
9. Can you provide references and examples of successful rankings?
Learning about what current and past clients have thought about the firm’s expertise is a great way to determine if they are the right fit for you. When examining their list of successful rankings, you should see traffic for relatively common terms. If you see that they have a low search count per keyword, it isn’t necessarily an indicator of poor traffic. The firm may be focusing on a long tail strategy.
10. How much will the traffic results cost and how soon can I see them?
Quality search engine optimization (SEO) work cannot be determined off price alone. Granted, you often get what you’ve paid for. You’ll see pricing models that range from a few hundred to several thousands. As for traffic, it’s dependent on a few factors: niche keyword choices, saturation in the marketplace and the amount of competition.
But now, ask yourself this question: Will I be a good match?
Just as the firm will have responsibilities, so does your role as a client. You will not be a good partner if you are overly thrifty, can’t make timely decisions, don’t sign contracts on time, and ask for everything up front. Also, don’t create false expectations for a first page ranking for keywords in a short period of time. The firm you outsource your search engine optimization (SEO) duties to will get you in the first page rankings, but it will take time.
As the client, you should commit some of your time into the project and help push recommended changes. This can be done by building a detailed analysis and search engine optimization (SEO) strategy on the first day.
Outsourcing search engine optimization (SEO) is ideal if you have the time and knowledge to do it. It will save you time and cost in the long run. An outside firm has the advantages of experience, a network of resources, and ability to get your rankings up faster.
Written by Daisy K.