How To Hire an SEO Firm
Very few lawyers have the necessary understanding of SEO, and how it works, for them to make an informed decision about hiring a competent SEO team.
Choosing whatever pops up on Google’s top results page may not necessarily be the best option, nor is going for the an advertisement published in a state or local bar publication. Most often than not, these paid advertisements don’t translate to competence.
There are plenty of questionable SEO companies out there that may take advantage of the least initiated, charging them a lot of money but providing very little value in return. And to make matters worse, it’s challenging to make the proper distinction between a reputable SEO company and one that isn’t.
Fortunately, however, there are a few things you can do that can separate the good ones from the bad, which we will discuss below.
Know the Basics of SEO and its Vernacular
If you’re looking to hire someone’s services, regardless of what these may be, it’s always a good idea to have a general understanding of what those services are and how they can help your own business. It doesn’t mean that you need to become an expert in SEO, but knowing the basic terminology and how SEO works will help you to hold a general discussion, ask competent questions, and better evaluate these SEO companies.
Case Studies, Testimonials, and Other Forms of Social Proof
If a company promises you excellent results, don’t take them at their word (if they promise page 1 rankings, RUN). Instead, search the internet for any reviews or references that can substantiate their claims. Look for testimonials on their website and ask them if they are willing or able to provide you with names and references from satisfied customers.
Use Word-of-Mouth Advertising
Similar to client testimonials, use colleague professional references to make an informed decision. As most of us know, word-of-mouth advertising is among the best performers in the marketing world. Nothing beats a satisfied customer preaching the benefits that a company provided them. Ask around and see what other law firms have to say about the SEO companies they have experience with.
There’s No Such Thing as a ”Secret Sauce”
Many SEO companies try to entice you with a secret system of their making that will ‘guarantee’ you maximum results. Unless this secret system of theirs is not skill, experience, proven results and dedication to your firm, then chances are slim you’ll get the results you want.
Turning internet users into your law firm’s clients requires effort – there’s no secret about that. It involves creating fast, useful, and technically sound web pages with high-value content to match. When you’re looking to hire an SEO company as your partner, they should be willing to disclose how they specifically intend to achieve whatever they are claiming.
Conclusion
Choosing a good SEO company to help you with your digital strategy is a major marketing decision and should not be taken lightly. You owe it to yourself, your firm, your employees, and your hard-earned money to choose a company that best meets your needs.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed and want to learn more about legal marketing; feel free to download your lawyer marketing white paper today.