Finding the right SEO expert for your ecommerce business can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. There are countless professionals out there, each with their own set of skills and experiences. But how do you ensure the one you choose is the perfect fit for your needs?
In this post, we'll navigate the process of finding an SEO expert who can bring your ecommerce business to new heights. From understanding what to look for in a candidate to knowing the right questions to ask, we've got you covered. So, let's get started on this journey to finding the SEO partner that can help your business shine.
Understanding Your Needs
Before you even begin your search, it's important to have a clear understanding of what you need from an SEO expert. Are you looking to improve your site's visibility, increase traffic, or boost conversion rates? Perhaps your goal is to enter new markets or launch a new product. Each of these objectives might require a different type of expertise, so clarity is crucial.
Start by listing your goals. Be as specific as possible. For example, instead of simply saying "increase traffic," you might aim for a 20% increase in organic search traffic over the next six months. This specificity will not only help you in your search but will also give potential candidates a better understanding of what you're looking for.
Consider also the current state of your website. Is it well-optimized, or does it need a lot of work? Knowing this will help you determine whether you need someone to start from scratch or if you're looking for a specialist who can fine-tune existing strategies. Once you have a clear picture of your needs, you can move forward with confidence.
Determining the Type of SEO Expert You Need
SEO experts come in various forms, each with unique strengths. Some specialize in technical SEO, focusing on optimizing server settings, improving site speed, and ensuring your site architecture is search-engine friendly. Others might excel in content strategy, keyword research, or link building. Understanding the type of expert you need is crucial.
For instance, if your site is technically sound but lacks engaging content, a content strategist might be the right choice. On the other hand, if your site struggles with indexing issues or mobile optimization, a technical SEO specialist could be more beneficial.
Additionally, it's worth considering whether you need a freelancer, a consultant, or an agency. Each has its pros and cons. Freelancers can be more affordable and flexible, while agencies might offer a wider range of services and resources. A consultant might provide a middle ground, offering personalized strategies without the overhead of an agency. Weighing these options against your business needs will help you narrow down your choices.
Researching Potential Candidates
Now that you know what you're looking for, it's time to find the candidates. This can be done through several channels:
- Professional Networks: Platforms like LinkedIn are great for finding professionals and checking their credentials and recommendations.
- Industry Groups and Forums: Sites like Reddit or specialized SEO forums can provide insights and recommendations.
- Referrals: Ask colleagues or business contacts for recommendations. A referral from someone you trust can save you a lot of time.
- Freelance Platforms: Websites like Upwork or Fiverr have numerous SEO professionals. Check their reviews and completed projects for validation.
Take the time to look at each candidate's past work. Pay attention to the types of businesses they've worked with, the results they've achieved, and how long they've been in the industry. An impressive portfolio and strong testimonials can be good indicators of a candidate's capability.
Evaluating Experience and Skills
When you've identified potential candidates, it's time to dig deeper into their experience and skills. Look for individuals who have a proven track record in ecommerce SEO. This means they should have experience driving traffic, improving rankings, and increasing conversions for ecommerce websites.
You might also want to consider their familiarity with the platforms and tools you use. For instance, if your store is built on Shopify or WooCommerce, an expert with experience in these platforms can provide more tailored strategies. Similarly, proficiency in tools like Google Analytics, SEMrush, or Ahrefs is often essential for effective SEO work.
Don't hesitate to ask candidates about the projects they're most proud of. This can give you insight into their problem-solving skills and creativity. Also, take note of their communication style. SEO is a collaborative effort, and you'll want someone who can clearly explain their strategies and results.
Conducting Interviews
Interviews are an opportunity to get to know the candidates better and assess their fit with your business. When conducting interviews, focus on both technical expertise and cultural fit.
Here are some questions to consider asking:
- Can you walk me through your SEO process? This will help you understand their methodology and ensure it aligns with your expectations.
- How do you stay updated with SEO trends and changes? SEO is constantly evolving, so it's important that your expert keeps up with the latest developments.
- Can you provide examples of past ecommerce projects you've worked on? Real-world examples can demonstrate their skills and experience.
- How do you measure success in SEO campaigns? Their answer should align with your business goals and KPIs.
Observe how they respond and whether they can explain complex concepts in simple terms. This is a valuable skill, as SEO can be quite technical, and you'll want someone who can communicate effectively with your team.
Assessing Cultural Fit
While technical skills are crucial, cultural fit shouldn't be overlooked. An SEO expert who aligns with your company's values and work style is more likely to work well with your team and contribute positively to your business culture.
Consider their work ethic, communication style, and how they handle challenges. Are they proactive in seeking solutions, or do they wait for instructions? Do they collaborate well with others or prefer to work independently?
Sometimes, a candidate might have excellent skills but may not mesh well with your company culture. In such cases, it might be worth considering if the trade-off is worth it. Remember, a harmonious team can often achieve more than one with conflicting personalities.
Checking References and Testimonials
Before making a final decision, it's wise to check references and testimonials. Reach out to past clients or employers to get a sense of the candidate's work ethic, reliability, and results.
Ask questions like:
- Were they able to meet deadlines and deliver results?
- How did they handle unexpected challenges?
- Would you hire them again?
Testimonials can also provide a glimpse into their strengths and areas for improvement. Look for patterns in the feedback you receive. Consistent praise or criticism in certain areas can be telling.
Setting Clear Expectations
Once you've chosen an SEO expert, it's important to set clear expectations from the outset. This includes defining goals, timelines, and deliverables. Having a detailed agreement can prevent misunderstandings and ensure both parties are on the same page.
Discuss how you'll measure success and the metrics you'll use. Agree on regular updates and reporting frequency. This transparency will help build trust and keep everyone accountable.
Remember, SEO is a long-term strategy, and results often take time. Be realistic with your expectations and give your expert the time and resources they need to succeed.
Monitoring Progress and Results
After you've set expectations and begun working with your SEO expert, it's crucial to monitor progress and evaluate results. Regular check-ins and reports will help you stay informed and make necessary adjustments.
Keep an eye on key metrics like organic traffic, search rankings, and conversion rates. These indicators can show whether your SEO efforts are paying off. Be open to feedback and willing to make changes if things aren't working as planned.
SEO is not a set-it-and-forget-it strategy. It requires ongoing effort and adaptation. By staying involved and informed, you'll be better positioned to achieve your business goals.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right SEO expert for your ecommerce business is a journey that requires time, effort, and careful consideration. By understanding your needs, researching candidates, and assessing their skills and cultural fit, you'll be well on your way to making an informed decision.
Now, let me share a bit about how Pattern can help you take your SEO efforts to the next level. At Pattern, we specialize in driving more traffic from Google and turning that traffic into paying customers. Unlike most SEO agencies, we focus on results, crafting landing pages that target numerous search terms and writing conversion-focused content. SEO should be part of a bigger growth strategy, and we ensure every dollar invested delivers real ROI. Whether you're an ecommerce brand or a SaaS startup, Pattern can be your partner in growth.