Choosing the right SEO strategist for your ecommerce store can seem a bit like finding the perfect pair of shoes. You want something that fits well, looks good, and, most importantly, gets you where you need to go. In a world where online visibility can make or break your success, investing in the right SEO strategist is more important than ever.
This post will guide you through the process of selecting an SEO expert who can help your online store achieve its goals. From understanding the role of an ecommerce SEO strategist to evaluating potential candidates and making the final decision, you'll learn everything you need to know to make an informed choice.
Understanding the Role of an Ecommerce SEO Strategist
Before you can choose the right person for the job, it’s important to understand what exactly an ecommerce SEO strategist does. Think of them as your digital marketing guide, focused on increasing your online store’s presence in search engines like Google.
Here's what they generally handle:
- Keyword Research: They identify the terms and phrases potential customers use to find products like yours.
- On-Page Optimization: This involves optimizing product descriptions, titles, and other content on your site to rank better in search results.
- Technical SEO: They ensure your website is technically sound, with fast loading times, mobile-friendliness, and secure connections.
- Content Strategy: They create a plan for content that draws in and converts visitors.
- Link Building: They work on getting other reputable websites to link back to your site.
An effective strategist will tailor their approach to your specific needs, focusing on the areas that will bring you the best return on investment. So, understanding their role helps you know what to look for when choosing someone to partner with.
Identifying Your Ecommerce Needs
Before diving into the search for an SEO strategist, you need to pinpoint your ecommerce store’s unique needs. Are you launching a new site, or is your goal to increase traffic to an existing one? Perhaps you're looking to improve conversion rates or expand into new markets.
Consider these questions:
- What are my primary goals for the next six months?
- Which products or categories should receive more focus?
- Am I looking to fix a drop in traffic or enhance an already successful campaign?
- What is my budget for SEO services?
Answering these questions will help you create a clear picture of what you need from an SEO expert and allow you to communicate these needs effectively when you're ready to hire.
Evaluating Experience and Expertise
Once you know what you’re looking for, it’s time to evaluate potential candidates. Experience is crucial in the SEO world because search engine algorithms are constantly changing. An experienced strategist will have learned from past successes and failures, giving them the ability to adapt quickly to new trends.
Here’s how to gauge their experience:
- Client Portfolio: Ask to see examples of their work with other ecommerce businesses, especially those in your industry.
- Case Studies: Detailed case studies can give insights into their problem-solving abilities and the results they’ve achieved.
- Certifications and Education: While not the only indicator of expertise, certifications from recognized bodies can add credibility.
It’s also beneficial to have a chat with past clients to get a sense of their satisfaction and the strategist's ability to deliver on promises.
Checking Their Understanding of Your Industry
An SEO strategist with experience in your industry brings a significant advantage. They’ll have a better grasp of the competitive landscape, common challenges, and the target audience's behavior, which can save you time and resources.
Here’s how you can check their industry understanding:
- Ask Industry-Specific Questions: See how well they understand your market’s dynamics and customer behavior.
- Check Their Content: Have they written or spoken about your industry? Blogs, white papers, or webinars can be indicators of their expertise.
- Look for Relevant Experience: Previous work with competitors or similar businesses can be a good sign.
While a solid grasp of SEO fundamentals is essential, industry-specific knowledge can make all the difference in how effectively they can drive results for your online store.
Assessing Communication Skills
Good communication is the backbone of a successful partnership. You want someone who’s not only knowledgeable but also capable of explaining complex ideas in a way that makes sense to you. This ensures you’re always on the same page and can make informed decisions about your SEO strategy.
Consider these aspects:
- Clarity: Are they able to explain their strategy clearly and concisely?
- Responsiveness: How quickly do they respond to your queries?
- Reporting: Do they provide detailed, understandable reports on progress and results?
A strategist who communicates well will make you feel like you're part of the process, rather than leaving you in the dark about what’s happening with your investment.
Evaluating Their Problem-Solving Skills
SEO isn’t always straightforward. Google’s algorithms are complex and ever-changing, which means unexpected challenges will arise. That’s why having a strategist with strong problem-solving skills is a must. They should be able to think on their feet and adapt their strategies as needed.
Here’s how to assess this skill:
- Ask About Past Challenges: Have them describe a difficult situation they faced and how they overcame it.
- Scenario-Based Questions: Give them a hypothetical problem and ask how they would address it.
Problem solvers are proactive, not reactive. They anticipate potential issues and have contingency plans in place, which is exactly what you want in an SEO strategist.
Comparing Pricing and Value
When it comes to pricing, you'll encounter a wide range of figures. It’s important to understand what you’re getting for your money. The cheapest option isn’t always the best, and the most expensive doesn’t guarantee top-tier service.
Here’s what to consider:
- Services Included: What specific services are included in their pricing? Make sure there are no hidden costs.
- Deliverables and Outcomes: What outcomes can you expect for your investment?
- Contract Flexibility: Are you locked into a long-term contract, or is there flexibility?
Ultimately, you want someone who provides value, not just a service. A strategist who aligns their goals with yours will help you achieve the best possible return on your investment.
Making the Final Decision
Now that you’ve gathered all this information, it’s time to make a decision. Consider all the factors: their experience, understanding of your industry, communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and pricing. Reflect on your interactions with each candidate and trust your instincts.
Here’s a simple checklist to help you decide:
- Do they understand and align with your ecommerce goals?
- Are they experienced with businesses like yours?
- Do they communicate effectively and clearly?
- Are they proactive problem solvers?
- Do they provide value for the price?
Choosing the right SEO strategist is a significant step for your business, but by following these guidelines, you’ll be in a strong position to make a choice that benefits your ecommerce store for years to come.
Final Thoughts
In this post, we covered how to choose an ecommerce SEO strategist by understanding their role, evaluating their experience and expertise, and ensuring they meet your specific needs. We also discussed the importance of communication, problem-solving skills, and comparing pricing and value.
Speaking from my experience at Pattern, we specialize in helping ecommerce brands and SaaS startups grow by driving more traffic from Google and turning that traffic into paying customers. Unlike most SEO agencies, we focus on results, not just rankings. We create landing pages that target multiple search terms, helping your brand reach more potential buyers. Our conversion-focused content doesn't just attract visitors; it converts them into customers. We believe in a performance marketing approach, ensuring that every dollar you invest delivers real ROI. With Pattern, SEO isn't a guessing game; it’s a growth channel that drives sales and lowers your customer acquisition costs.