SEO agency recommendations: what to do when they Don't work for you?
What to do if SEO agency recommendations don't work for me?
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What to do if SEO agency recommendations don't work for me?
Last updated
Bonjour, les amis! Today, we're diving into a frequently asked question in the realm of search engine optimization: What should you do if your SEO agency's recommendations don't quite hit the mark for you?
To start, let's explore how SEO agencies typically function. Generally, they kick off the process by conducting comprehensive SEO audits. This step involves identifying your target keywords, performing competitor research, and carrying out a technical analysis of your website. With these insights, the agency then creates a list of recommendations for your internal SEO team to implement. Over time, they conduct fresh audits to track improvements and adjust their strategies accordingly.
Typically, SEO agencies also develop a Google Analytics research framework for you to monitor progress monthly, updating their recommendations as needed.
The starting point is almost always an SEO audit, which commonly includes three or four types, either in one package or as separate services. These audits cover:
1. Technical SEO Audit: Examines the technical aspects of your site that impact SEO.
2. Semantical Content SEO Audit: Focuses on the quality and relevance of your content.
3. Strategic or Competitive SEO Audit: Analyses your position relative to competitors.
However, this typical approach can be overly templated, restricting flexibility and often catering to larger organisations that can execute vast changes.
SEO agencies often promote industry best practices, insights, and playbooks compiled from working with leading companies, especially in sectors like e-commerce. When encountering a new client, they frequently offer repurposed insights and strategies.
There are three main scenarios where an agency’s recommendations might fall flat:
1. You Are New to the Scene: If you're freshly entering the market, agencies may struggle to provide novel recommendations due to limited existing data. You might find their advice generic and less valuable than your existing insights.
2. Limited Internal Capacity: Without a robust team or the resources to implement suggestions, agencies’ recommendations may become impractical. Agencies often need to collaborate effectively with your internal team or serve as an extension of it until your team is ready to take over.
3. You Are at a Plateau: Even when your SEO is technically sound, you might not be witnessing growth. In such cases, agencies can only provide limited support, as breakthrough ideas and a shift in strategy are necessary.
For Newcomers:
Consider hiring an SEO consultant who can provide personalized insights into your specific niche. A consultant will tailor strategies that move beyond standard playbooks.
For Limited Internal Capacity:
Search for a smaller SEO agency or consultant who can integrate into your team as a temporary member, offering a more unified and workable dynamic until you’re self-sufficient.
For Those at a Plateau:
It may be time for what I call "SEO Therapy." This involves rethinking your entire SEO strategy to drive innovation and adaptability within your organisation.
If your SEO efforts aren't yielding the desired results, it's essential to reassess and adapt. Whether it's hiring an expert to tailor strategies to your unique needs or adjusting internal processes to foster effective collaboration, the solution often lies in customising standard practices to fit your specific situation.
Thank you for reading! If you have further questions or wish to consult with me on a particular issue, feel free to reach out. Until next time, au revoir!