What should I push back on in an SEO strategy deck from an agency?

When reviewing an SEO strategy deck from an agency, push back on unclear KPIs, cookie-cutter tactics, and lack of transparency in deliverables. Ensure the strategy is tailored to your specific business needs, includes measurable goals, and that the agency can clearly explain their approach and expected outcomes.

Why You Should Care

You’ve got a business to run. Every rand counts. So, when an SEO agency presents a strategy deck, it’s not just about pretty slides. It’s about making sure the proposed plan aligns with your business goals and delivers real value.

Imagine you’re a software company targeting small businesses. The agency suggests a broad keyword approach. Sounds good, right? But if those keywords are too generic, you might attract the wrong audience, wasting time and money. It’s crucial to interrogate the strategy to ensure it’s the right fit for your niche and goals.

Key Areas to Question

Before you sign off on an SEO strategy, take a moment to scrutinise these aspects. It’s your business, after all.

• KPIs and Metrics: Are they clear and measurable? If the agency can’t show how they’ll measure success, it’s a red flag. You need to know exactly what metrics they will track and how these align with your business objectives.

• Customisation: Does the strategy feel tailored to your business? Beware of generic strategies that could apply to anyone. Your business is unique, and your SEO plan should reflect that.

• Transparency and Communication: How often will the agency communicate progress? Regular updates are essential. If they’re vague about this, ask for specifics on how they’ll keep you in the loop.

• Link Building Strategy: What’s their approach? If they’re promising hundreds of links quickly, be cautious. Quality trumps quantity in link building.

• Content Strategy: Is there a clear plan? Content is king, but it needs a throne. Ensure there’s a solid plan for creating and optimising content that speaks to your audience.

After you’ve gone through these points, you’ll have a clearer picture of whether the agency is the right fit for you. If they can’t address these concerns, it might be time to look for a seo optimisation expert who can.

Let’s Get Real

Look, everyone’s selling something. Agencies are no different. They want your business, and they’ll make their pitch sound like the best thing since sliced bread. But here’s the thing: you know your business better than anyone else.

Don’t be afraid to push back. Ask questions. Demand clarity. If the agency can’t explain their strategy in simple terms, they probably don’t understand it well enough themselves. And if they’re not willing to adapt their approach to fit your unique needs, well, maybe they’re not the right partner for you.

Remember, a good SEO strategy isn’t about ticking boxes. It’s about crafting a plan that’s as dynamic and unique as your business. So, grab that coffee, sit down with the deck, and don’t be shy to challenge what doesn’t feel right. Your business deserves nothing less.