For most companies, what would be the ideal traits of a professional in the world of search engine optimization (SEO)? It is not necessarily the easiest question to answer, as not every business is aware of all the different methods that make up SEO solutions. From the use of the pay-per-click (PPC) advertising model to the use of geo-targeting to try to narrow the list of potential customers, the number of details can be staggering. Unfortunately, such a fact has often led to some inexperienced business owners going for SEO professionals that might not be the best fit. On the other hand, SEO experts in Chicago are enjoying a steady stream of popularity due to a tendency to provide quality work.
While it is undoubtedly a fantastic idea to make use of SEO professionals to help with getting a boost in the search rankings, it is not enough to go for the first great deal that the user sees. Keep in mind that the SEO professional the user hires will directly affect their online reputation, so it is not to be taken lightly. To ensure that the business ends up with the best SEO experts, it would be wise to choose a professional with these six proven capabilities.
1. An interest in the bigger picture instead of only the search rankings
The idea that search engine optimization is only about search rankings is the reason why some business owners end up with subpar SEO professionals. Keep in mind that SEO is not just all about the search rankings, as it tends to make up much of the digital marketing business landscape. Fortunately, it can be easy to figure out whether or not they have the bigger picture in mind instead of short-term goals. For example, it would be a good idea to ask them about their goals and how they intend to work toward improving the company’s brand recognition.
It is something of a trick question, as the answer is not available as of the moment. An SEO expert that understands the nature of the question will let the business owner know that it will depend on their company’s overall goals. Aiming for the top spot in the search rankings is only one aspect, and it is not even the most crucial part of SEO.
2. A passion for new ways to accomplish the task
There are some SEO professionals out there that have achieved so much success with their typical processes that they cease to grow as a business. They no longer look at the newest methods and end up utilizing the same tired tactic as it still works. While not fixing what isn’t broken can be useful in some aspects, the reason why search engine optimization has grown so much is that it has constantly evolved over the years.
An SEO professional with the proven capability to still be curious about new methods and hungry to learn more about their craft is crucial when choosing the best professionals for the business. Asking the SEO agency about their processes and how it evolves can shed some light onto the matter.
3. Exceptional communication skills
One of the most obvious capabilities any SEO professional should have would be the communication skills necessary to get along with any client. Fortunately, it is something that the business owner will likely notice right away, as it can be challenging to hide poor communication skills. The rule of thumb is that if they are having a hard time explaining their goals or methods, it might be best to look elsewhere.
4. Years of experience under their belt
It might seem unfair to newer SEO agencies out there to neglect them in favor of those with years of experience but keep in mind that the company’s online reputation is on the line. Going for an SEO agency that is tried and tested exponentially increases the odds of success compared to going for a new SEO company without a track record.
5. Understand the process behind website optimization
Considering that the primary website will be one of the most crucial parts of a digital marketing campaign, it is only obvious to want an SEO company that knows its way around website optimization. The prospect of dealing with a website to ensure that it is prepared for a wave of online shoppers and visitors involves the use of content marketing — blogs and articles that are relevant to the products being sold. It also involves the removal of unnecessary content and widgets to help improve loading times, as well as ensuring that the images are not such a high resolution that it ends up causing a website to slow down.
Fortunately, it can be quite easy to figure out whether an SEO professional understands website optimization. All the user has to do is ask them about their plans regarding the primary website.
6. A willingness to work with all facets of your business
Last but certainly not least, it can be challenging for any SEO professional to make progress if they cannot work with all aspects of the company. From the IT services and the customer service to HR and various departments within any given business, SEO companies that have a challenging time integrating their digital marketing strategies to make use of the various departments will not get very far. While it might take some time to figure out whether or not an SEO agency is a great fit when it comes to working with all facets, the other tips above can help clue a user in on a professional’s potential.
It does not have to be said how crucial it is to take one’s time when it comes to searching for the best possible SEO expert for their company. The best SEO experts in Chicago are out there, and they are willing to provide fantastic work to help any business get ahead. All it takes is a bit of research and preparation to find them and ensure that they are the best possible fit for the business.