Learn how to hire an SEO consultant who delivers results.
Why Hire an SEO Consultant Instead of an Agency
SEO agencies often prioritize client satisfaction over performance. While this may work for large corporations like Louis Vuitton or Electronic Arts, businesses focused on growth need results-driven strategies.
An SEO consultant offers personalized solutions that adapt to your goals. They focus on performance, not just reports, ensuring your SEO investment generates tangible returns.
Learn more about the differences between consultants and agencies.
Qualities to Look for in an SEO Consultant
Experience and Proven Results
An experienced consultant brings decades of knowledge and a track record of success. Look for someone who has developed proven strategies, such as the Topical Mesh, which has transformed SEO in France and beyond.
Ask about specific success stories and industry recognition, but also prioritize confidentiality to protect clients’ privacy.
Clear and Transparent Communication
Transparency builds trust. A good consultant records calls, provides actionable insights, and ensures you understand their approach. Avoid vague explanations or consultants who can’t clearly articulate their methods.
Up-to-Date with SEO Practices
The SEO landscape evolves constantly. Consultants who rely on outdated methods from 2010 won’t deliver top rankings. Ensure your consultant leverages modern strategies like internal linking, semantic optimization, and platform-specific tactics for YouTube or TikTok.
Custom Strategy for Your Business
Every business is unique. The right consultant tailors strategies to your goals, whether targeting competitive keywords or building long-term brand authority. They adapt to your specific needs and align their efforts with your business objectives.
Questions to Ask a Potential SEO Consultant
How often will I receive updates or reports?
Reports are essential, but they should focus on performance, not just client satisfaction. Be wary of overcomplicated reports that obscure results.
What are your previous success stories?
Look for results-driven examples while respecting client confidentiality. Avoid consultants who oversell their achievements without context.
How do you approach link building?
The best consultants use a mix of organic and private link networks, ensuring full control over backlinks while avoiding risky practices.
Red Flags to Watch For
Vague Explanations
A good consultant provides clear answers and adapts their approach to your understanding. Vague responses often signal a lack of expertise.
Guarantees of Specific Rankings
No one can guarantee #1 rankings because results depend on factors beyond the consultant’s control. Instead, focus on those who promise a process-driven approach.
Overpromising Immediate Results
SEO is a long-term investment. Avoid consultants who promise overnight success without a clear roadmap.
Why the Topical Mesh Strategy Stands Out
The Topical Mesh combines internal linking, content optimization, and off-page strategies to create a comprehensive framework. It focuses on relevancy and structure on a page-by-page basis, outperforming outdated domain-centric approaches.
Search is everywhere, from Google to TikTok. A great consultant helps you adapt to modern search behaviors while maintaining consistency across platforms.
Making the Final Decision
Hiring the right SEO consultant requires alignment with your goals, budget, and values. Choose someone who prioritizes performance over flashy promises and demonstrates a clear understanding of your business needs.
Pay attention to their ability to adapt and provide actionable steps. SEO isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution—it’s a tailored process that requires expertise and precision.
