Choosing an SEO partner is a long-term decision. Results take months, so a poor choice wastes both money and time. Ask these questions before signing.
1. What will you do in the first 90 days?
A good answer includes a technical audit, keyword mapping, priority fixes and content plans — specific to your site.
2. Do you guarantee rankings?
The right answer is no. Nobody controls Google's rankings.
3. How do you build links?
Look for content-led outreach, digital PR and genuine partnerships. Be cautious about bulk link packages.
4. Who will work on our account?
Know whether senior specialists or juniors will handle your work.
5. Will you implement changes or just recommend them?
Many agencies only send reports. Confirm who makes technical fixes.
6. How do you report results?
Rankings alone are not enough. Ask for traffic, enquiries and revenue from organic search.
7. Can we see relevant examples?
Ask how they approached similar businesses and what results they achieved, even if anonymised.
8. Who owns the content and accounts?
Your website, Search Console, analytics and content should remain yours.
9. What do you need from us?
SEO works better with your input: product knowledge, approvals and access.
10. What happens if we stop?
Understand notice periods and handover of work.
FAQs
How much should SEO cost in India?
It depends on scope, competition and the amount of content and development needed. Compare scopes rather than just prices.
How long before results?
Most businesses see meaningful progress in three to six months.
Should we sign a long contract?
A reasonable initial term is normal, but avoid lock-ins without performance reviews.
