Top 10 Factors to Consider When Hiring an SEO Company
Hiring an experienced and reputable SEO company can significantly impact your business's online presence and success. With numerous companies offering SEO services, it's essential to choose the right one that aligns with your needs and helps your website rank higher on search engines. Let’s discuss the top 10 factors to consider when hiring the best SEO company in Melbourne Australia, and provide you with a guide to help you make the right choice.
1. Assess the Company's Experience
When searching for the best SEO company, consider their experience and track record in the industry. A company that has been in business for a long time and has managed various projects is more likely to meet your needs. Opt for a company that offers customised solutions rather than fixed services. Investigate their years of experience, types of clients they have worked with, and the industries they have served to gauge their expertise.
2. Evaluate the Company's Reputation
To determine the credibility of an SEO company, check its reviews and testimonials from past clients. If the company has positive ratings and recommendations, it's a good indication of their reliability. Conversely, if there are negative comments or reviews, it might not be the best choice for your business. Also, look at their client list to see if they have worked with reputable companies or brands before. You can also ask for references to contact directly for feedback.
3. Verify Their Expertise
Before hiring an SEO company, ensure that they have extensive knowledge of SEO strategies and techniques. Research the latest trends and best practices so that you know what to expect from the company and can set realistic expectations. Ask them about their approach to on-page and off-page optimisation, keyword research, link building, and technical SEO.
4. Analyse Their Past Results
A company's past performance is a strong indicator of their capabilities. Check if they have a history of helping clients rank high on search engines. Look for examples of websites they've worked with and testimonials from satisfied customers who can vouch for their success in driving traffic to their websites. Request detailed reports on their past campaigns' performance, including improvements in organic traffic, keyword rankings, and conversions.
5. Check Online Reviews
Online reviews are a great way to gauge how an SEO company treats its clients. If they have a history of being rude or unhelpful, it's likely they will treat you the same way. Look for positive reviews that highlight their professionalism and responsiveness. Check platforms like Google My Business, Yelp, and Trustpilot for unbiased feedback.
6. Request Case Studies
If you're looking for an eCommerce SEO company, ask for case studies of successful eCommerce websites they've worked with in the past. This will demonstrate their ability to help eCommerce sites rank high on Google and drive traffic. Case studies should provide insights into the strategies used, challenges faced, and results achieved.
7. Look for Transparency
The best SEO companies are transparent about their work. They should provide a list of links they've built and show how their targeted keywords are ranking on Google. This transparency helps build trust between you and the company. Ensure they provide regular updates on your campaign's progress and are open to discussing their strategies and tactics.
8. Identify Your Point of Contact
Determine which employee will be handling your account and ensure you have a single point of contact. This is crucial for efficient communication, as explaining your needs and goals to multiple people can be time-consuming and confusing. Make sure your point of contact is knowledgeable and responsive, and consider their availability for meetings and updates.
9. Comprehensive Website Auditing
A reputable SEO company should offer a thorough website audit at no additional charge. This audit serves as the foundation for their service offerings. Make sure the company provides specific recommendations backed by code changes and detailed instructions for implementation. The audit should cover technical aspects, content analysis, user experience, and backlink profile.
10. Understand the Factors Contributing to High Rankings
Ask the SEO company about the factors they believe contribute to high search engine rankings. They should discuss the roles of social media, content quality, effective metadata, and relevant keywords. If they don't mention these factors or only give them a cursory mention, it might be a red flag that the firm isn't the right fit for your business. A well-rounded SEO strategy should encompass all aspects of digital marketing, from content creation to social media promotion and website optimisation.
