While some like to think of search engine optimization as a one-time event, SEO is an ongoing process that requires regular activity--day in and day out. Hence, even if you're already well-versed at ranking your site for the right keywords, you may still be able to benefit from working with an experienced SEO agency.

Of course, you don't want to work with just any SEO company. After all, while there are many excellent businesses out there, there are also a good deal of unreliable ones. Hence, it is vital that you pick the best SEO Company. Here's what you need to know before hiring an SEO marketing firm.

1 - Ability to Perform Stellar Keyword Research

Keyword research is the foundation of SEO; this is why it's imperative that your SEO agency possesses expert keyword analysis skills. However, it's not enough just to have an SEO partner that knows how to find keywords; your SEO provider must also have access to the right tools.

2 - Do They Offer an Onsite SEO Analysis?

A reputable SEO company should also be able to assess your site's search engine friendliness. This includes the following ranking factors:

- Page load speed
- Code errors
- Broken links
- Content quality
- URL structure
- Meta tags
- Etc.

The site audit will help the SEO company determine the scope of work. Note: If the SEO firm suggests specific services without performing a website audit, you should view this as a warning sign.

3 - Offsite SEO - Building Backlinks to Your Website

In addition to on-page optimization, a good SEO company should also be able to acquire high authority backlinks from sites that are relevant to your niche. So be sure to ask your SEO provider what strategies they use to generate backlinks.

4 - SEO Fee Structure

SEO fees are not a one-size fits all proposition. Firms use a variety of pricing models. However, the most common are:

- On a project basis
- Per hour
- Monthly retainer
- A combination of the above

Given the variation in agency pricing, the primary items to look for are transparency and flexibility.

5 - Realistic Expectations

SEO takes time. Let no one tell you otherwise. No one can get you onto the first page of Google in 10 days, if anyone tells you otherwise, run.

Reliable SEO service providers understand that optimization is a long-term strategy and will endeavor to set realistic expectations.

While not comprehensive, this brief primer should go a long way in helping you find the right SEO agency.

About Lovely Leads

As a best of breed Atlanta, GA SEO agency, Lovely Leads offers a full range of expert services designed to help their clients succeed and make the most of their marketing efforts. From local SEO, PPC advertising and social media outreach efforts to lead generation and website design, Lovely Leads fulfills their clients' web marketing needs from start to finish.

But their clients benefit most in 2016 from a deep knowledge of what works in the digital marketing realm, which yields an unprecedented flow of leads.

To learn more about lead generation and search engine optimization in Atlanta visit Lovely Leads at http://www.lovelyleads.com.