New Article - How to Hire a Professional SEM - Part 4

[thejenn]

Full Text: http://www.searchengineguide.com/laycock/004286.html

Some Snippets:

"Once you've selected a few SEM firms to consider, you'll need to decide if you want to work with an individual consultant, an SEM-only firm, or a marketing or web design firm that also offers SEO services. "

"Whomever you hire, make certain that they speak to you in a language that you understand. If they are not willing to clearly explain each step of the process to you and answer any questions that you might have, give serious consideration to selecting another vendor. "

[BWelford]

This is an excellent review of all the factors, Jennifer. I think the most important rule is right there in the final sentence of the article.

"It is essential that search engine optimization efforts be considered part of your overall marketing strategy and that the professional you hire is able to make this happen."

Unless this is done, it is highly likely that whatever is done will only be partially effective. As an example, search engine optimization may bring more visitors to your website, but if they don't convert to clients, then the effort is wasted. So you've got to make sure you're 'firing on all cylinders'.

[thejenn]

Thanks Barry! I'm willing to bet that most of us that do SEM have had at least one client that transferred over from having a bad experience with another company.

It's still so new, people just seem to have a hard time finding information on how to hire someone. There's tons of info on how to do it yourself, but very little on selecting the right person or company to do the work for you.