In the ever-growing world of web marketing, start-up SEO and social media companies sprout quickly. For business owners with limited online backgrounds, it’s hard to separate the men from the boys. While it may seem tempting to opt for the least expensive option, real results cannot be achieved through cheap gimmicks or inexperience.
Real SEO and social media professionals boast portfolios, case studies, and experience that is results driven. Young companies lacking backgrounds can waste budget and time. The best way to choose the most effective SEO and social media company for your business is to educate yourself on the principles and requirements in these areas.
You wouldn’t purchase a home or a used car without an inspection. Although there is no official web marketing inspection service, you’ll be able to do your own detective work.
What should you look for in an SEO/Social Media company?
Experience
A reputable company can provide references and examples of past success. When visiting a SEO/Social Media company’s website, look for portfolios, case studies, and links to current accounts.
Reputation
In addition to onsite investigation, broaden your search with Google. Type the prospective company’s name into the search engine and see what the results yield. If the information is shady, it’s best to keep the checkbook in your pocket. Google also provides reviews. Check the company’s rating to see what others think of their service.
Guarantees
No SEO or social media agency can guarantee instantaneous results. Expecting a tremendous boost in traffic after the first exchange of funds is naïve. SEO and social media campaigns take time. While it’s not unreasonable to expect results, these improvements should be slow and steady. A good SEO/social media strategist takes time to plan for growth. Make sure your agency provides a detailed outline with benchmarks for success.
Price
SEO/Social Media services are expensive. While many of the tools these companies use (Google Analytics, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, YouTube, etc.) are free, the knowledge and time spent establishing connections and creating functional communities comes at a price. These companies boast experts who have built success upon years of marketing, HTML, search engine, and social media experience.
If you choose to go with a company that makes false promises, lacks experience, but ultimately suits your need to save money, you might end up paying for it in more than cash. Improper SEO and social media marketing tactics can lead search engines like Google and social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter to ban your company’s online presence. The damage to your company’s reputation is not worth the savings lure. Choose a reputable company that has a track record of success and satisfied customers, because when your online presence grows, your business will follow suit.