What Is An SEO Consultant and Do You Need Them?

Believe it or not, 75% of users never scroll past the first page of search results. Yet, here you are, possibly stuck on page two or three, wondering how to climb the SEO ladder. That’s where an SEO consultant comes into play.

Let’s cut through the jargon. Unlike what many think, SEO isn’t just about stuffing keywords or tweaking meta tags. An SEO consultant is your GPS for navigating the ever-changing landscape of search engine algorithms.

Hold tight! We’re about to delve into the nitty-gritty of what an SEO consultant really does, why your business might be screaming for one, and how to ensure you’re not hiring a dud.

What Can An SEO Consultant Do To Boost Your Business?

There are 6 key ways an SEO consultant can optimize your success.

1. Conduct In-Depth Audits and Analysis

2. Optimize Pages for Maximum Search Visibility

3. Build High-Quality Backlinks

4. Create Compelling SEO-Focused Content

5. Monitor Performance and Identify Issues

6. Stay Up-To-Date on Google Algorithm Changes

How Would You Know If Your Business Needs An SEO Consultant?

Your Website Traffic is Declining

Are you watching your website traffic nosedive? Trust me, you’re not alone. But hold on—this might be a red flag. Maybe you need an SEO pro in your corner. Let’s get real: if you don’t check your stats, how will you know? So, hop onto Google Search Console. Find the “Performance” tab. Set it for the past year. See a drop? You better act, like, yesterday.

Not a Google fan? Ahrefs can help you out.

But wait, you say, “It’s just the holidays, right?” Nope. Seasonal bumps are a thing, but a real drop is bad news, folks. Did you know organic search drives 53% of website visits? Yeah, no joke. BrightEdge says so.

👉 Quick Tip: Don’t just stare at numbers. Ask yourself: Are people sticking around or bouncing off?

Your aim? Keep visitors interested. Make ’em want to buy from you. If the stats suck, you need an SEO wakeup call. 🚨

Google Penalized Your Website

If Google has slapped your website with a penalty, that’s a huge red flag you need an SEO consultant, ASAP. So, how do you know you’re penalized? You might see a drastic ranking drop, or worse, get an email from Google itself. Trust me, that’s not spam you wanna delete. Google penalties are a maze you don’t wanna navigate alone—like, ever.

Got an email like this? Act now. An SEO consultant won’t just help you bounce back; they’ll also keep you penalty-free down the line. So, no more cringing every time Google rolls out a new core update. Source: Google Webmaster Guidelines

👉 Quick Tip: Think your penalty is a fluke? Don’t bet on it. Check Google’s guidelines, or better yet, consult an SEO pro.

Your website has lots of technical issues

If your website is riddled with technical issues, that’s more than just a red flag—it’s a blazing inferno urging you to bring in an SEO consultant. Wondering how to tell if your site is technically unsound?

It’s simple: kick things off with a technical audit. Trustworthy tools like Google Search Console or Moz can be your first pit stop. 

These platforms offer a feature called a “site health score” that sums up how Google-friendly your website is. 

If your health score is screaming for attention—let’s say it’s below 80—you’ve got some serious technical gremlins to exterminate.

Real-life example: Imagine logging into Google Search Console and finding a score of 40. That’s like having an ‘F’ on a report card, and it’s affecting everything from your site speed to mobile responsiveness. 

By hiring an SEO consultant, you’re essentially calling in a SWAT team for your website’s technical troubles. 

From solving intricate 404 errors to aligning those confusing canonical tags, they’ve got you covered. A seasoned consultant can lift that health score, and by extension, your Google rankings. So, instead of swimming in the murky waters of page 3 or 4, you’ll find yourself sunbathing on the coveted shores of Google’s first page.

You Want To Rank Higher For Important keywords

Want higher rankings for important keywords? Not ranking on page one of Google suggests your business needs an SEO consultant. As a professional consultant, I help companies identify new keyword opportunities and consistently improve search positions.

High rankings equal targeted traffic and leads. I perform in-depth audits to fix technical issues, optimize on-page content, and ensure your website follows the latest SEO best practices.

Google’s algorithms change constantly – my expertise keeps your strategy effective. Without ongoing optimization, your rankings risk plummeting. Hire an SEO consultant to drive more organic visibility and sales. My proven strategies deliver results by getting you on page one.

How To Hire An SEO Consultant?

Hey, so you’re convinced you need an SEO maestro in your life. No judgment; we’ve all been there. But before you go sliding into the DMs of the first SEO guru who pops up on LinkedIn, pump the brakes. 🛑 

Let’s talk turkey about how you can hire an SEO consultant without getting burned.

Define Your Goals and Requirements

Alright, let’s get real. You wouldn’t go to a tattoo artist and say, “Surprise me,” would you? Same goes for SEO. You gotta know what you want before you bring in the big guns.

👉 Quick Tip: Time to break out those spreadsheets or dust off that whiteboard.

Here are some legit goals and requirements you might wanna consider:

1. Keyword Rankings: Want to see your website on the first page when you Google specific terms? List those suckers out. You’ll want an SEO consultant who’s got a solid track record with keyword research and ranking.

2. Organic Traffic Boost: If your site’s more deserted than a gym in December, you’ll want to set a goal for increasing organic visitors. Make it SMART—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound.

3. Backlink Strategy: Need authoritative sites to link to you? That’s a whole strategy, buddy. Know the types of sites you’d love to get a backlink from.

4. Local SEO: Operating in a specific area? Then you’d better show up in local searches. Specify if you need to target particular locations.

5. Content Creation: If your blog’s a barren wasteland, you might need help generating high-quality content. Is this a must-have for you?

6. Technical SEO: Site speed, mobile optimization, schema markup—yeah, it gets technical. If your site’s underperforming in these areas, put it on the list.

7. Conversion Rate: Driving traffic is sweet, but converting that into sales or sign-ups is the cherry on top. Need to improve that? It’s a goal.

8. Compliance and Accessibility: Make sure your site is ADA compliant and accessible to all. It’s not just good practice; it can also affect your ranking.

See what we did there? We just moved from “I think I need an SEO person?” to “Here are the specific areas where I need help.” Now you’re not just throwing darts blindfolded. You’re aiming with purpose.

Ever heard the saying, “If you aim at nothing, you’ll hit it every time”? Well, that’s a disaster waiting to happen in the SEO world. Be crystal clear about your goals so that your SEO consultant knows what playground they’re in.

Still foggy about what you actually need? No worries. A good SEO consultant can help you figure that out too. But let’s not put the cart before the horse; defining your goals gives you and your potential SEO partner a roadmap to success. 🎉

Research Consultant Experience and Specialties

Let’s dive right into the specifics of researching a consultant’s experience and specialties while keeping in tune with the overall vibe of your piece.

Okay, you’ve got your goals etched in stone. Now, onto the real deal—finding that SEO wizard who isn’t just slinging smoke and mirrors. It’s resume time, folks. 📄

👉 Quick Tip: Think of this like dating. You wouldn’t go exclusive before knowing what someone brings to the table, right? Do your homework.

1. Years in the Game: SEO ain’t no playground; it’s a battlefield. How long has this consultant been in the trenches? Experience matters, but keep an eye out for updated skills. SEO is a moving target.

2. Case Studies & Portfolios: Show, don’t tell. Ask for case studies or portfolios that showcase their expertise. A true pro will have demonstrable results. No case studies? Red flag, my friends.

3. Specific Skill Set: SEO is like a Swiss Army knife—lots of tools, from on-page optimization and backlink strategies to local SEO. What are you looking for? Make sure your consultant’s strengths align with your specific needs.

4. Industry Experience: Selling pet rocks online? Running a high-end fashion boutique? Different industries require different SEO tactics. Check if they’ve got experience in your specific sector.

5. Client Testimonials: If their previous clients are singing their praises louder than a Beyoncé concert, you might be onto something. Don’t ignore these firsthand accounts; they’re gold.

6. SEO Tools They Use: The tools in their arsenal can tell you a lot. Are they relying solely on Google Analytics, or are they proficient in Ahrefs, Moz, SEMrush, and others? Make sure they’ve got the gear to match your objectives.

7. Communication Skills: If they can’t explain complex SEO jargon in a way you can understand, that’s a red flag. Effective communication is key to a successful partnership.

8. Custom Strategies: SEO isn’t one-size-fits-all. Can they tailor a strategy to fit your unique needs and goals? If it’s just boilerplate strategies, keep moving.

9. Cultural Fit: This might sound fluffy, but if your SEO consultant doesn’t get your brand’s vibe or values, it’s not gonna work. Period.

You see, diving into their experience and specialties is like peeling an onion. The more layers you peel back, the better you’ll understand if this SEO consultant is your soulmate or a dud. So ask questions, check references, and remember: you’re hiring an extension of your team. Choose wisely.

Feeling a bit more clued-in? I sure hope so. 🌟

Review Case Studies and Client Results

So you think you’ve found The One? 

Slow down, cowboy. Now it’s time to delve into the stuff that actually proves their worth: case studies and past client results. 

Now, I know what you’re thinking. “I already did the background check, what more do you want from me?” A lot, actually. So roll up those sleeves and let’s get forensic.

👉 Quick Tip: If they shy away from sharing case studies, wave ’em goodbye. Transparency is the name of the game.

First off, let’s talk about the documented growth they’ve generated. Get into the weeds—has there been a steady climb in traffic, engagement, and, most importantly, revenue? If you see a portfolio full of fluff but devoid of stats, then it’s a no-go, buddy. You want numbers and graphs, not just pretty adjectives.

But wait, there’s more. 

Are these stats even from your industry or anything remotely related? If you’re in pet care and they’ve only got stats from cryptocurrency websites, you might want to pump those brakes.

Now, about ROI—don’t you dare overlook it. You’re not in this for charity; you want returns, cold hard cash. If the case studies are mum about ROI, it might be a pretty façade hiding an empty shell.

So they’ve got good rankings for competitive keywords? Great, but don’t just high-five yet. Look for consistency over time. A flash-in-the-pan win could crash and burn quicker than you can say “algorithm update.”

Let’s talk social proof. Testimonials can be as fake as a three-dollar bill, so look for other forms of validation like before-and-after snapshots or analytics screenshots. Real results are harder to fake than enthusiasm.

And what about longevity? If their former clients are still reaping the benefits long after the project ended, you’re onto a winner. If it was just a short spike, swipe left.

Don’t forget to check if they’ve ever saved a website from the depths of Google penalty hell. It’s like a superhero origin story but for SEO. If they’ve done it, it’s a good sign they can navigate through thick and thin.

Last but definitely not least, does their approach feel like it’s one-size-fits-all? Or do they tailor strategies to fit unique needs? A custom plan shows they actually pay attention and aren’t just recycling old tactics.

And there you have it—your blueprint to separating the wheat from the chaff when it comes to SEO consultants. Satisfied? You should be. Ready to do some sleuthing? Even better. 🕵️‍♂️

Interview Multiple Candidates

Alright, let’s cut to the chase. Hiring an SEO consultant isn’t a game of eeny, meeny, miny, moe. You gotta be picky.

👉 Quick Tip: It’s a bit like dating—don’t settle for the first swipe right.

Kick things off by asking how long they’ve been in the biz and what’s their game plan for you. If they’re all fluff and no substance, swipe left.

Discuss the money talk upfront. If the price sounds like a steal, it probably is—in a bad way. Remember, quality SEO isn’t dirt cheap.

Ask about their squad. A one-person show isn’t gonna cut it. They should have a team that covers all the SEO bases—content, backlinks, and tech.

What are their KPIs? If they promise the moon, but can’t define realistic metrics, that’s a red flag. Look for solid, measurable goals.

Last but not least, how’s the communication gonna be? You don’t wanna be left hanging. Make sure they’ll keep you in the loop.

In short, question them like you’re an investigative journalist on a hot story. This is your brand we’re talking about; don’t hand over the reins to just anyone.

Ask About Their Technical SEO Abilities

Listen, you wouldn’t hire a chef who can’t handle a knife, right? Same goes for an SEO consultant who can’t get technical. This is the nitty-gritty stuff, folks, the behind-the-scenes magic that makes or breaks your online presence.

👉 Quick Tip: If they can’t explain technical SEO in layman’s terms, they might not grasp it themselves.

Start simple: Can they perform a website audit and not just skim the surface? We’re talking deep-dives into site architecture, URL structures, and how your website speed is affecting your search ranking. If they just talk about keywords and content but avoid the tech talk, be wary.

How about mobile optimization? With over half of web traffic coming from mobile devices, if they don’t bring it up, you should. If their eyes glaze over, walk away. You need someone who understands the full scope, from desktop to mobile.

Let’s talk Core Web Vitals—Google’s latest hoop for us to jump through. If they can’t speak to how they’ll improve your Largest Contentful Paint or First Input Delay, they’re not the droids you’re looking for.

Next, server optimization. Ask ’em how they’d improve your server’s response time. If you hear crickets or generic answers like “make it faster,” question their expertise.

And let’s not forget Schema Markup. This helps search engines understand your content better. If they can’t guide you through the complexities of structured data, keep searching.

Last thing: backlinks. These are the arteries of your website, connecting you to the rest of the online world. They should have a plan for both earning and cleaning up backlinks. If not, they’re not your endgame.

Bottom line? Your SEO consultant should be as comfy with tech stuff as a fish is in water. If they dodge technical questions or give generic answers, it’s time to peace out.

Ready to grill your candidates on their tech skills? Go get ’em, tiger! 🐅

Discuss Links Building Strategies and Content Production

Alright, you’ve made it this far, so don’t drop the ball now. We’re talking Link Building and Content Production—the peanut butter and jelly of the SEO sandwich. You can’t have one without the other.

👉 Quick Tip: If their link-building strategy is just “more is better,” it’s a red flag. Quality trumps quantity, folks.

First, let’s break down link building. Ask ’em what their approach is. Are they into organic link building, guest posts, or the dreaded black-hat methods? (Spoiler: if it’s the last one, run for the hills.) What you want to hear is a balanced strategy that includes high-quality, relevant links.

Dig deeper: Ask how they plan to score these premium links. Will they be leveraging relationships with other websites, or do they have a magic trick up their sleeve? Make sure their strategy is above board and aligns with Google’s guidelines. We’re looking for long-term gains, not quick, shady wins.

Now, flip the script to content. Content is king, queen, and the whole darn kingdom. So, what’s their master plan? Are they just gonna throw a bunch of keywords into a blog post and call it a day? Or will they produce in-depth articles, videos, and maybe even podcasts that not only rank but also engage your audience?

Ask for examples of content calendars or topic clusters they’ve worked on. If they can’t show a comprehensive strategy that extends beyond “We’ll blog occasionally,” that’s a no-go.

And how about synergy? Yep, it’s a buzzword, but in this context, it’s crucial. Your link-building and content strategies should be two sides of the same coin. One boosts the other, like a power couple in the SEO world.

So, before you shake hands (digitally or otherwise), make sure they’re pros in both link-building and content production. If they are, congrats, you’ve got yourself a keeper.

Get ready to dial in those strategies, folks. The road to SEO success is just around the corner. 🏁

Review Pricing and Understand Deliverables

Ah, the money talk. Bet you’ve been waiting for this one, right? Well, we’re diving in. But let’s clear something up first—cheap SEO is like buying knockoff sneakers. They might look the part, but they’ll fall apart way quicker.

👉 Quick Tip: If their pricing looks like it’s straight outta a clearance bin, tread carefully.

Start by getting a clear quote. But don’t just eyeball the numbers; dissect what’s included. Are we talking about just basic SEO adjustments, or is it the full buffet with content strategy, technical SEO, link building, and so on? Make sure you’re not signing up for a bag of chips when you thought you were getting the steak dinner.

And timelines, people, timelines! When are they promising to deliver these sky-high results? If they say you’ll be raking in the organic traffic by next week, press that pause button. Good SEO is a marathon, not a sprint.

How transparent are they about their deliverables? Will they be sending monthly reports? What metrics will those reports cover? If they’re dodgy about what exactly they’ll be doing each month, that’s as suspicious as a cat at a dog show.

Also, inquire about contract terms. Some consultants rope you into long-term contracts faster than you can say “Google algorithm update.” Know the exit clauses. No one wants to be trapped in an SEO relationship that’s gone stale.

And hey, what’s their billing schedule? Monthly, quarterly, or a big ol’ upfront fee? Make sure it aligns with your cash flow so you’re not eating ramen for the next year.

In a nutshell, break down the costs, get the lowdown on what you’ll actually be getting, and don’t be afraid to haggle a little. This is your money and your business on the line. Make every penny and every SEO strategy count.

Ready to tackle the dollars and cents of SEO consulting? Put on that negotiation hat and let’s seal the deal. 💼💰

Check Reviews and References

You wouldn’t buy a car without checking its history, right? So why would you hire an SEO consultant without doing a little snooping? Time to become a review sleuth and dig into what other people are saying.

👉 Quick Tip: If their reviews look too good to be true, they might just be. Look for a well-rounded mix.

First stop: Google their name or agency. You’re looking for reviews on multiple platforms—Google, Yelp, industry-specific sites, you name it. If all you find are five-star reviews glowing like a Christmas tree, dig deeper. Are these reviews verified? Do they look suspiciously like they were written by the consultant’s mom?

Next, LinkedIn. Check if they’ve got recommendations from actual clients or colleagues. A LinkedIn profile without recommendations in this industry is like a fish out of water—something’s off.

Don’t stop at the internet. Ask them for client references. And actually call those references, okay? You’d be amazed at what you can learn through a five-minute conversation. Ask about their experiences, any challenges they faced, and if they saw a real ROI. If the consultant hesitates to provide references, that’s a big, glaring “No Entry” sign.

Also, are they featured in industry publications, podcasts, or webinars? These could be goldmines of third-party validation. If they’re considered an authority in the field, you’re probably on the right track.

But hey, keep an eye out for negative reviews too. One or two bad reviews aren’t a deal-breaker; they could actually offer insight into how the consultant handles adversity. Did they respond professionally, or did they go on the defensive? Your future SEO partner should be as good at damage control as they are at boosting search rankings.

So before you put pen to paper, or fingers to e-signature, make sure you’ve covered all your bases. Reviews and references aren’t just checkboxes—they’re your insider look into what working with this consultant is really like.

Got your detective hat on? Good, you’ll need it. Now go find yourself an SEO consultant worth their salt. 🕵️‍♂️🔍

How Incrementors Can Help You?

Finding and vetting an SEO consultant takes immense effort. Incrementors remove this burden through our dedicated matching process. 

With over 10 years of experience, we leverage our industry insight and connections to identify the best consultants for your unique business goals. We handle the entire hiring process, from vetting qualifications to facilitating interviews and negotiations. 

Partnering with Incrementors means you get the rewards of working with a premier SEO consultant without the intensive legwork. Reach out today to have our team find the perfect search engine optimization partner to boost your web presence and spur business growth.

FAQs

1. How much does it typically cost to hire an SEO consultant?

SEO consultant fees vary widely based on experience, location, scope of work, and other factors. Budget at least $500-$1,000 per month for part-time consulting or $2,000-$7,000+ per month for a full service agency.

2. What results can I realistically expect from an SEO consultant?

A qualified consultant can help improve organic rankings, increase website traffic, boost conversions, and grow revenue. However, it takes time to see dramatic differences. Expect gradual, steady progress over 3-6+ months.

3. Should I hire an individual consultant or an agency?

Agencies provide a full team and service, while individual consultants offer more personalized attention. Assess your budget, needs and preferred working style to determine which is a better fit.

4. What SEO skills should a consultant have?

Technical expertise in areas like keyword research, link building, site optimization, along with strong analytical abilities and communication skills. Look for an SEO strategist, not just a technician.

5. How long will it take to see results from an SEO consultant?

It depends on your starting point and goals. Typically allow 3-6 months minimum to start seeing measurable improvements in organic search traffic, rankings, and conversions. SEO is an ongoing process.

6. Should I sign a long-term contract with a consultant?

Monthly contracts provide more flexibility in case the partnership isn’t working optimally. But annual contracts may offer more competitive pricing. Assess your needs to determine an ideal timeline.