Hi folks. Today's discussion is how to acquire highly effective, cheap SEO for your business. Yes, I have written on affordable SEO before, but I want to build on that entry here. I know there is simply a huge desire out there to create solid SEO results on the cheap.
So first off, let me say a few things.
1) Stop reading the forums on the 1st page of Google for the term "cheap SEO". Sad to say, those forums are like the black market of the Internet. Yes, you will find many discussions of cheap SEO in those forums. But you should use extreme caution. You think I'm over-stating that? Well, lets think of a medical analogy. For example, would you buy your prescription drugs off the back of a truck in a dark alley? No. Well folks, the forums are the dark alleys of the Internet. I've been amazed by the propositions that I've gotten just hanging out in the forums. Cheap SEO. Free links. Free sites. You name it. All they need is a little money up front and then good things will follow. Yeah right! A fool and their money are soon parted.
2) Remember that anything cheap usually has lower levels of service. SEO is no different from other services you may be seeking. When you look for affordable options because your budget is tight, you need to expect slightly less than if you buy the full-service option. I don't think this is bad. It is just something that you have to factor into your thinking. In other words, when you seek cheap SEO, you need to be ready to put in some time on your end. Remember that "time is money" is a universal truth no matter what business you are in.
So, what can you expect from a cheap SEO provider? Well, first of all, don't compromise on the things that really count. Only do business with a company with a solid reputation. That means they have Fortune 100 clients. Also, demand to know everything that they are doing for you. You need full access and transparency to the workflow around the SEO they do on your behalf. Also, ask for results from other clients. Do you want cheap and ineffective? No. You want to do some of the work yourself and save, but still make meaningful results for your business. Ask those questions. And don't jump on the first one you see.
At Semify, we like to do a demo for all customers no matter how small the deal. That way we know that the potential customer actual sees exactly what they are going to get. We like to be very up front with expectations about what is included in the less expensive "affordable SEO" plans. We think this is important as you should have a trusting relationship with all clients. You should demand this from whoever you are talking to.
Finally, many firms (including ours) offer a Free SEO Trial. Always a good idea. This way you can test it out before you pay anything. No risk is a wonderful thing.