Did you know that every second, Google processes approximately 40,000 search queries? That equates to more than 3 billion searches every single day. Those are pretty substantial numbers, and they really highlight just how important search engine optimization (SEO) really is.
If you own a website, then you obviously know how important traffic to your site is, but just in case you don’t… The more traffic your site receives, the greater the success you stand to achieve. In order to really see results, you have to make sure that you are taking advantage of the best practices when it comes to SEO. Considering the fact that Google constantly changes their algorithms, trying to implement the best practices can be tricky. That’s why you might need to seek professional support to ensure that you get real results.
Since search engine optimization is so important, there are literally countless agencies popping up. Many of those agencies claim that they are “experts” in the field of SEO, but in reality, they use questionable practices and don’t deliver real results. Before you commit to investing your hard-earned money into an SEO company, you want to make sure that you choose a company that you can rely on. But how can you tell if an agency is the real deal or if you should keep on looking? Here are some of the top signs that indicate a less-than-stellar SEO company.
Sub-Par Content
As the old saying goes, “content is king” in the world of search engine optimization. Well thought-out, high-quality, engaging content can do wonders for SEO results. On the other hand, poor-quality, plagiarized content can significantly impact your results – and not in a good way. It can take tons of time and money to reverse the effects of bad content.
Take a look at some of the websites that the SEO company you are considering using has worked on. If you notice that the content appears very similar with only a few slight changes, get out of there quick! In order to appeal to the search engines and see real results, your site needs to be filled with exceptional content that has been specifically written for your business and your website.
Offers Few Services
When it comes to SEO, there are several strategies that must be employed in order to successfully achieve high rankings on Google – and keep them. From website design to social media marketing, there are so many facets that are involved in search engine optimization. An SEO company should offer multiple services in order to get you the best results possible. The organization doesn’t have to offer every possible tactic, but it should offer a variety of strategies in order to achieve success. In other words, if an SEO firm doesn’t provide a range of services, they could be missing a vital element that could prevent your site from landing on top.
Employs Outdated Tactics
Search engine optimization is constantly changing, which is evident by the constant adjustments Google makes to their algorithms. An SEO firm has to be able to keep up with these changes. If the agency you are considering isn’t using the latest techniques and instead relies on outdated strategies, then you should look elsewhere.
Some strategies that you should be wary of include keyword stuffed content, limited website design capabilities (desktop only, for example), and content that offers no helpful information (known as clickbait).
Constricting Contracts
Just like any relationship you have, your relationship with an SEO company should be flexible. The agency should be willing to adjust their services to meet the specific needs of your website, or you should be able to walk away without being severely penalized if you aren’t getting the results you desire.
If you have to be locked into a long-term contract, or the details of your contract can’t be modified, you keep on shopping around. You want to have the freedom to make changes or part ways if needed, without losing a ton of money.
If you’re on the market for a top-quality SEO agency that offers services that are specifically customized to the unique needs of your Long Island- or New York City-based business, give us a call to find out how we can deliver the real results you are looking for.
