Affordable SEO Services: Getting the Most Bang for Your Buck
Affordable means different things to different people. What feels like a hefty chunk of change for some is petty cash for others. That’s why finding affordable search engine optimization (SEO) services isn’t a one-size-fits-all process.
The basic premise of finding SEO services is similar to shopping around for any purchase. We’d like to take the time to break down some of the basics of finding a web developer and digital marketer who’s going to give you the most bang for your buck.
Become a Smart Shopper for Affordable SEO Services
One of the first things that you’re going to need to consider how to locate the services that you require. The problem is that finding a digital marketing specialist isn’t quite like buying a new laptop. It’s a true investment in your company. Becoming a smart shopper is critical. Here’s why:
1. Google is continuously updating their search engine algorithms
There were 11 significant updates in 2017, and we’ve already seen four this year. To reap the benefits of your investment, you must work with a firm that is dedicated to staying abreast of all changes in the SEO game. While a higher price doesn’t always necessitate a better value, there’s a chance that lower cost is equitable to lower abilities.
2. People can make false promises to hook you
The old saying goes, “If it sounds too good to be true, it is.” Being a smart shopper when it comes to digital marketing services means being aware that magic doesn’t happen overnight. If an affordable SEO service promises that you’ll have the top spot and stay there, it’s just not true. A site that isn’t a household name, like Facebook or LinkedIn, is going to see fluctuations in their rankings as other sites enter the SEO game.
3. SEO is absolutely necessary
Digital marketing companies know that and the clients, including you, know that. That being said, there’s nothing that says everyone has to have the same approach to SEO. Look for digital marketers who offer plans, customizations, and have a holistic approach when putting together your contract.
Pricing Structures Make a Difference
Depending on how you agree to pay, you may be getting more or less than you’d expect. Don’t overpay for services that you don’t need, but you also can’t expect your marketing firm to work 80 hours a week on your account if you’re paying them for 20 hours a month.
Choose a pricing structure that’s most appropriate for your business’ needs.
Hourly
Simply put, you’ll receive a bill at the end of the month for the number of hours that your firm worked on your account. This is often the most expensive method, and it can cause trouble in the budget if you run into an SEO problem that requires extra work.
Contracted
Signing on for a contract is the best way to get your website in tip-top shape. Contracted services often come in bundles that take care of all your SEO needs at a price discounted down from the hourly rates.
Monthly
Monthly payment structures give you the freedom for what you can afford when you can afford it. It allows you to keep the digital marketer on retainer, and to access their services when you need them. You’ll pay a flat rate for that access, and in some cases, additional fees for content creation.
Per Project
This is common for businesses launching a new product or service. Instead of paying for or signing onto a contract that covers your whole site, you’re asking for a particular package that helps you market and optimize your current project.
Finding Affordable SEO Services
You’ve done your research on what kinds of SEO service you need, you’ve narrowed down the list to a couple of good options, and it’s time to make a decision. This can be the scariest part, but coming to the table with information and a plan can make it a little less intimidating.
1. Talk to Friends, Family, and Other Businesses
Word of mouth is an incredibly valuable asset, especially when you’re making a major investment in your business. Talk to anyone who’s worked with a digital marketer, especially business owners. If they have recommendations and results, it won’t hurt to talk to their suggested firms.
2. Ask for References and Portfolios
It is of the utmost importance that you understand the work of the person you’re about to hire. If you don’t like what you see, or other clients complain about their service, it’s time to get out of Dodge. With that in mind, don’t let one unappealing website from the portfolio dissuade you. There’s no accounting for the taste of others, and perhaps they were doing what they had to do to please the client.
3. Create a Plan and Identify Needs
Don’t get suckered into paying for more than what you’re looking for. That’s not to say that there are services you won’t want to tack on once you hear about them and evaluate their value to your business. That is to say, though, that some salespeople can be very persuasive. Come in with a plan and a budget, and stick to it!
4. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
Understand exactly what you’re signing up for. It’s your money; it’s your website. You should be happy with the services that you’re being offered and the results that you’re being guaranteed. Asking questions helps the digital marketer understand what you’re looking for, and it can reassure you that working with professionals was the right decision.
Are you ready to tame your digital landscape? Start ranking on search engines and be seen by those who are most important to your business- the customers. Get started by reading more about the NATIV3 approach to digital marketing, then drop us a line to find out more.