Improving the SEO and Client Relationship

Communication between companies and clients can be difficult and stressful on both ends. While this is true for most industries, it is especially true in the SEO business, and it can sometimes make an already delicate relationship grow sour and even ruin a business deal. Luckily, there are ways to ensure effective communication both as an SEO company and as a client.

Learn

For SEO Companies:The need to understand the client’s business should be obvious, however it is often overlooked. Make it a goal to understand a client’s company nearly as well as that company’s CEO. This step is even more important if the client is on a content management plan which involves writing the website content. Make sure all copywriters are confident and knowledgeable of the material, and if this is not the case, take the necessary measures to remedy it, such as setting up meetings between clients and copywriters.

For Clients: SEO is a highly specialized business, much like yours, so it helps to be able to speak their language. While you may not have the time to read a comprehensive guide on everything there is to know about SEO, knowing at least the basics will help you understand your SEO company and better communicate your needs.

Collaborate

For SEO Companies: Be sure to always keep your clients in the loop. If there are changes made to what you previously agreed in a meeting, do not follow through without notifying them and possibly obtaining written approval.

For Clients: Be prepared to play a large role in your SEO effort, especially in the beginning. Don’t expect to sign a check and be done with it. Your SEO company will need information and resources such as content and images, so it is important to stay in contact with them and send these in a timely manner in order to make the process go smoothly.

Trust

For SEO Companies: Although you are the expert in SEO, don’t forget that your client is still the expert when it comes to his or her business. This means that while you should trust your own judgment, you should never disregard a client’s instincts.

For Clients: You may not understand every decision your SEO company makes, but remember that you hired them because they are the SEO experts. This does not mean you should follow them blindly; ask questions and express your concerns, but in the end, trust them to do what is right for your business.

Be Realistic

For SEO Companies: Never over-promise. If you guarantee leads or rankings and are unable to deliver, you may set yourself up for failure. Be sure to discuss timelines and communicate specific goals and what you can and can’t realistically achieve.

For Clients: Likewise, as a client, you should never assume that the money you put into SEO will result in a first page ranking for your search term. Remember that rankings cannot be bought and properly-done SEO takes time and patience. Even if changes are minimal in the short term, you’re investment will pay off in the long run.