How to work with an SEO company: 10 questions to ask before you sign
Choosing an SEO agency is a big decision. These questions help you spot the good ones, avoid the cowboys and get real value from the relationship.
Hiring an SEO company should feel like taking on a trusted adviser, not buying a mystery box. The best agencies are happy to explain what they do and why. Here are the questions worth asking before you commit.
Questions to ask
- What will you actually do each month? Expect specifics: pages written, profile updates, links built, technical fixes. "Ongoing optimisation" on its own is not an answer.
- Which searches will you target, and why? A good agency picks searches that bring customers, not just traffic.
- How will you report progress? Look for plain-English reports covering rankings, traffic and, most importantly, calls and enquiries.
- Who owns the work? Your website, content, Google Business Profile and analytics accounts should belong to you, always.
- How do you build links? Listen for local, relevant and earned. Be wary of large numbers for small fees.
- What is the minimum term? Short minimums are common. Understand the notice period before you sign.
- Do you guarantee rankings? The right answer is no. Nobody controls Google.
- Who will I speak to? A named contact who knows your business makes a big difference.
- Can I see examples? Ask how they have helped businesses similar to yours.
- What do you need from me? Good SEO is a partnership. Expect to supply photos, answer questions and ask customers for reviews.
Getting the most from your agency
Share what you know
You know your customers better than anyone. Tell your agency which jobs are most profitable, which areas you want more work from and what customers ask on the phone. That shapes the strategy.
Keep reviews coming
Reviews are one of the few things only you can generate. A simple habit of asking every happy customer pays off quickly.
Measure what matters
Rankings are useful, but enquiries pay the bills. Track calls, forms and WhatsApp messages so you can see real results.
Give it time, but expect communication
SEO takes months to compound, but you should never be left wondering what is happening. Regular updates are a sign of a healthy relationship.
Warning signs
- They will not explain their methods.
- They want ownership of your domain or Google profile.
- Reports are full of jargon but say nothing about enquiries.
- Prices that seem impossibly low for the work promised.
At Page 1 Google we keep it simple: clear monthly work, plain-English reports and no ranking guarantees. See our pricing or get in touch.