Running a small business means doing a little bit of everything—serving customers, managing employees, handling inventory, and trying to market your services. One of the most important ways to get your business in front of new customers today is by showing up in search engines like Google. That's where SEO comes in.
If you don't have the time or expertise to handle SEO on your own, hiring an SEO agency can help. But with so many agencies out there, how do you choose the right one?
Here are some important things to consider when hiring an SEO agency for your small business.
What Is SEO, and Why Does It Matter?
SEO stands for Search Engine Optimization. It's the process of improving your website so it ranks higher when people search for your type of business online.
For example, if someone searches for “plumber near me” or “best coffee shop in [your town],” good SEO helps make sure your business shows up on the first page of results. Even SEO for pet groomers is a thing.
SEO matters because most people never go past the first page of Google. If your business isn't listed near the top, potential customers might never find you.
Why Small Businesses Need SEO Help
Search engine algorithms are always changing. What worked last year may not work today. SEO also includes many technical parts, like:
-
Finding the right keywords
-
Fixing website errors
-
Writing helpful content
-
Improving site speed
-
Earning backlinks from other websites
Trying to handle all of this on your own can be overwhelming—especially when you're also running a business. That's why hiring a skilled SEO agency is often worth the investment.
7 Things to Look for in an SEO Agency
1. Experience with Small Businesses
Some SEO companies mainly work with large corporations. Look for one that understands the challenges and goals of small businesses. They should be familiar with local SEO, smaller marketing budgets, and how to get results without overcomplicating things.
2. Clear and Simple Communication
A good SEO agency should be able to explain what they do in plain language. You don't need to understand every technical detail, but you should feel confident that the agency is being honest and transparent about what they're doing and why.
Ask them:
-
What will you do first?
-
How do you measure results?
-
How often will we communicate?
3. No Wild Promises
If an agency promises you'll be “#1 on Google in a week,” that's a red flag. SEO takes time. Real results usually take a few months, especially if you're in a competitive industry.
Look for a company that's honest about what to expect and how long it will take.
4. Results You Can See
Ask for examples of other businesses they've helped. Do they have case studies or reviews that show how they've improved traffic, leads, or sales?
Don't just take their word for it—ask for proof of success with businesses similar to yours.
5. Custom Plans That Fit Your Goals
Your business is unique, and your SEO plan should be too. Whether you're a local contractor, a family-owned restaurant, or an online retailer, your strategy should be based on your specific goals and market.
Avoid agencies that offer cookie-cutter packages. Instead, look for someone who takes time to understand your business and tailors their approach accordingly.
6. Fair, Transparent Pricing
SEO should be a smart investment, not a guessing game. A trustworthy agency will explain what you're paying for and won't try to hide extra fees.
Make sure they offer clear pricing and allow some flexibility if you need to adjust your plan later.
7. Up-to-Date Knowledge
SEO is always evolving. Google changes its algorithm frequently, and new strategies come and go. Your agency should stay current and update your plan as needed to keep you competitive.
Ask how they stay informed and how they adjust to changes in SEO trends and best practices.
Questions to Ask Before You Hire
To make sure you're choosing the right agency, ask:
-
Have you worked with businesses in my industry?
-
What does your monthly process look like?
-
How do you define success?
-
How long will it take to see results?
-
Can I cancel if I'm not happy?
These questions can help you find an agency that's a good fit for your needs—and avoid the ones that might waste your time and money.
One Agency Worth Considering
If you're looking for an agency that specializes in helping small businesses grow their online presence, Honest Oak is one of the top-rated SEO and digital marketing agencies in the United States. They focus on practical strategies, clear communication, and long-term success for their clients.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right SEO agency is an important step for any small business. The right partner can help you show up in more searches, bring in more customers, and take some marketing stress off your shoulders.
Take your time. Ask smart questions. And most of all, look for a team that understands your goals, speaks your language, and has a proven track record of helping businesses like yours succeed.
With the right agency by your side, SEO doesn't have to be confusing or overwhelming. It can be a powerful tool to help your business grow—one click at a time.
