Technical SEO can seem daunting if you don’t have an in-house expert on your team. However, bringing in an experienced consultant can help navigate the constant changes in search algorithms and best practices. With so many technical SEO providers to choose from, it’s important to vet potential consultants thoroughly to find the right fit for your business. Look for a partner who understands your goals and can clearly communicate their process. Asking strategic questions upfront helps you identify a technical SEO consultant with the proven expertise, approach, and work ethic to deliver real results for your website and online presence.
This article explores 8 key questions all business owners and marketers should have answers to before committing to a technical SEO consultant. Knowing what to ask ensures you hire a provider equipped to optimize your site effectively and give your business a measurable competitive advantage.
1. What experience do you have with technical SEO?
The first question to ask a potential SEO service consultant is about their experience. You want to ensure that they have the necessary knowledge and skills to handle your website’s technical aspects effectively. A good way to gauge their experience is by asking for case studies or examples of past projects where they have successfully implemented technical SEO strategies. You can also ask for references and do your own research on their clients’ websites to see if they have achieved noticeable improvements in search engine rankings and traffic. Additionally, look for certifications or training programs that the consultant has completed to stay up-to-date with industry standards.
2. What is your approach to technical SEO?
Every technical SEO consultant will have their own approach to optimizing a website. It’s important to understand their methodology and how it aligns with your business goals. Ask for a detailed breakdown of their process, including which tools they use, how often they conduct site audits, and how they prioritize tasks. A good technical SEO consultant should have a structured plan in place that covers all aspects of technical optimization, from website speed to mobile responsiveness.
3. How do you stay updated on industry changes and algorithm updates?
Search algorithms are constantly evolving, and a technical SEO consultant should be aware of these changes and adapt their strategies accordingly. Ask how they stay informed about industry news and updates, such as attending conferences or joining online communities. A reliable consultant will also have a plan for monitoring algorithm changes and adjusting their approach to ensure your website stays compliant and maintains its rankings.
4. How do you handle site migrations or redesigns?
If you are planning a site migration or redesign, it’s crucial to understand how a potential technical SEO consultant will approach these changes. Ask about their experience with handling similar projects and how they ensure that the new site maintains its search engine rankings. A good consultant should have a thorough understanding of the technical implications of site migrations and should be able to provide a detailed plan for implementing redirects, preserving backlinks, and optimizing new URLs.
5. Can you explain your understanding of website crawling and indexing?
A crucial aspect of technical SEO is ensuring that search engine bots can crawl and index your website effectively. It’s essential to choose a consultant who understands the technical aspects of crawling and indexing and can identify and fix any issues that may affect your site’s visibility in search results. Ask for examples of how they have helped clients improve their crawlability and indexability.
6. How do you handle website speed optimization?
Website speed is not only important for user experience but also a ranking factor in search engines. A technical SEO consultant should have a good understanding of website speed optimization techniques and tools, such as caching and image compression. Ask about their process for assessing and improving website speed, including how they measure and report on progress.
7. Can you provide examples of your work with structured data?
Structured data is essential for enhanced search engine results and can greatly improve the visibility of your website in search. Ask a potential technical SEO consultant to provide examples of how they have implemented structured data for clients and the impact it has had on their search engine rankings.
8. What is your communication and reporting process?
Effective communication is crucial when working with a technical SEO consultant, as you want to stay informed about progress and results. Ask about their preferred communication methods and how often they provide updates on their work. Additionally, inquire about their reporting process and the metrics they use to measure success. A reputable consultant should be able to provide clear, easy-to-understand reports that show tangible results for your website.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right technical SEO consultant can make a significant difference in your website’s search engine rankings and overall online presence. By asking these 8 key questions, you can ensure that you hire a knowledgeable, experienced, and trustworthy partner who will help your business achieve its SEO goals. Remember to also trust your instincts and choose a consultant who understands your industry and has a proven track record of delivering results for their clients.
With the right technical SEO consultant by your side, your website will be equipped to reach its full potential and stand out in the competitive online landscape. So, invest the time and effort into finding the perfect fit for your business and reap the benefits of a strong technical SEO strategy for years to come.