Introduction
Businesses that want to grow and flourish must establish a strong internet presence. Given that 68% of online experiences begin with a search engine, it is not surprising that companies can attract more customers online worldwide 24/7.
Search engine optimization (SEO) can help enhance your online presence and ranking higher on search engine results pages (SERPs). Engaging an SEO agency is a strategic move that can significantly improve your SEO efforts. However, before you embark on this journey, there are crucial steps you should take to ensure you make the most out of your collaboration with an SEO agency in the Philippines.
10 Essential Steps to Take Before Hiring an SEO Agency
1. Define Your Goals
Before you embark on the journey of finding an SEO company, it is essential to define your objectives clearly. Determine what you wish to achieve through SEO efforts.
Whether increasing organic traffic, improving website rankings, enhancing brand visibility, or boosting conversions, having well-defined goals will help you convey your expectations to the SEO agency. Clear objectives will pave the way for a more targeted and successful SEO strategy.
ALSO READ: Can SEO Really Help Your Business?
2. Assess Your Current Situation
Conduct an in-depth assessment of your website’s current SEO standing. Analyze your existing website traffic, keyword rankings, and overall online visibility. Identify areas that require improvement and where you are already performing well.
Understanding your strengths and weaknesses will enable you to communicate with potential SEO vendors about your website’s specific present challenges.
3. Educate Yourself About SEO
While you may not be an SEO consultant, having a basic understanding of SEO principles can be immensely beneficial. Familiarize yourself with fundamental concepts such as keyword research, on-page optimization, backlinking, and user experience.
Having enough SEO knowledge will empower you to collaborate more effectively with your chosen SEO company and make informed decisions before they implement any SEO strategies for your business.
Below are some ways you can educate yourself about SEO:
- Read blog articles
- Watch online tutorials
- Follow SEO experts
- Take online courses about SEO
- Study Google’s documentation
- Join SEO communities
4. Set A Realistic Budget
SEO can yield impressive results, but you must still set a realistic budget that aligns with your goals. Research the typical costs before hiring an SEO agency so you can allocate a budget that aligns with your business goals.
Avoid choosing SEO vendors solely based on price; instead, focus on the value they can bring to your SEO efforts. In that case, consider the level of competitiveness in your industry and the scope of work required to achieve your desired outcomes.
A well-planned budget ensures you invest wisely and get the best possible return on your investment with your chosen partner SEO agency.
5. Research And Shortlist Potential Agencies
Now that you have a clear idea of your goals, current SEO standing, and budget, it is time to start researching potential SEO agencies.
Choosing the best SEO company in the Philippines can be difficult due to the abundance of options. Conduct thorough research and create a shortlist of SEO agencies with a proven track record of delivering results and experience working with businesses in your industry.
6. Request A Consultation
Once you have your shortlist, contact the selected SEO agencies to request a consultation. A consultation allows you to discuss your goals and expectations while allowing you to gauge the SEO agency’s expertise and approach.
Schedule consultations with the shortlisted SEO agencies to discuss your goals and gain insights into their approach. A face-to-face or virtual meeting allows you to gauge their expertise level, communication skills, and professionalism. Regarding the SEO techniques they have suggested to help you reach your goals, pay close attention to how well the SEO agency listens to your needs.
7. Ask For References
Ask for references from their previous or existing clients to gain further insights into an agency’s capabilities and reliability. Reach out to these references to inquire about their experience working with the agency, the results they achieved, and their overall satisfaction.
You can also read client testimonials on Google Business Profile (GBP) and their case studies since these provide valuable information about the SEO agency’s proficiency and level of professionalism.
DISCOVER: 7 Benefits Of Using Google Business Profile
8. Review Their Proposal
After consultations and gathering references, review the proposals presented by the shortlisted SEO agencies. That should give you enough ideas of their well-defined SEO strategies tailored to your goals.
The proposal should include a detailed breakdown of the services offered, a timeline for execution, and the expected outcomes. Choose an SEO agency in the Philippines that demonstrates a clear understanding of your business and provides a comprehensive and transparent approach to SEO.
9. Seek Transparency
Transparency is crucial in any business relationship, and the same applies when working with an SEO agency. They should provide regular reports on the performance of your SEO campaigns and be willing to address any concerns or questions you may have.
A transparent partnership fosters trust and promotes a more collaborative and successful working relationship. Transparency also builds trust and allows you to monitor the effectiveness of SEO strategies.
10. Consider Long-Term Partnerships
SEO is an ongoing process, and achieving sustainable results may take time. Instead of viewing the engagement as a one-time project, consider forming a long-term partnership with the agency.
Long-term collaborations allow the agency to implement strategies, monitor progress, and make necessary adjustments to continually improve your SEO performance with changing algorithms and market trends. Building a lasting relationship with an SEO agency that understands your business can lead to greater success in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
Final Thoughts
Investing in SEO can yield significant benefits for your online presence and business growth. However, before engaging an SEO agency, it is imperative to take essential steps to set the stage for a fruitful partnership. Maximize your SEO success and propel your business towards new heights in the digital realm.
Contact OOm Philippines at +63 91732 62104 or leave a message on our website if you need help elevating your business’s SEO strategies!
