Search Engine Optimization

Search Engine optimization is very important if you are looking to expand your internet exposure however, it seems that many people are victim to bad SEO (search Engine Optimization) practices. The major criticism is that a lot of people are paying completely too much for little or no results. In addition, a lot of them fall prey to bad SEO techniques. If you plan to hire an SEO pro in the future, I recommend you to follow the steps below before hiring any SEO firm or individual:

A) Find out how well-known and experienced an SEO firm is before you talk.

Do they have a considerable number of clients list?
Are they available?

B) Examine their portfolio.

What kind of results have they accomplished?
Contact a few of their clients. Were they satisfied with the SEO work that was done?

C) Consider and confirm their methods?

How will they optimize your site in the major search engines to reach your keywords?
Do they use organic methods? Some individuals or companies use doorway pages, hide text in the background, utilize re-directs and other blacklisted methods. Stay away from these because search engines consider these techniques as spam.

D) Get a least three proposals from other SEO companies.

Look at each one carefully. Are there similarities? Proposals will assist you know which companies are honest and which are trying to sell you something that doesn't work.
What is the cost? The cheapest isn't always the best; however, the highest price may not be attached to a complete and feasible course of action. Try to find an individual or a company that will give you what you want within your SEO financial plan.

E) Get everything in writing.

Look over the document carefully. Be sure it covers everything you have discussed, including methods of achieving your desired results. Have the copies signed by both parties. If the job is a large one you may want to consult a lawyer.

F) Clearly state the terms of payment.

While most SEO companies will not do any work for free or agree to a results based pay scale, many knowledgeable SEO professionals will not shy away from a base plus performance incentive package. I am not a firm believer in prepaid contracts. The majority of SEO professionals will abide by the 50% up front, 50% upon completion standard. Make sure all financial terms are as clearly defined in your contract as the actual scope of work. This will protect all parties involved in the event that expectations are not met.

All in all, try to do your best to train yourself on SEO. Have a basic understanding of SEO terminology and SEO methodology. Anyone offering SEO services should not have a problem explaining how they intend to get you results.