How Are SEO Services In India Different Than In The U.S?

Without a good SEO strategy, your company will simply be buried beneath all your competitors who understand search engine optimization. In order to be visible online in Google's natural search results (as well as Bing, Yahoo and other major engines), you need to be on top of the latest SEO developments.

If you have no SEO expert on staff and no budget for a consultant, you've got a big problem. Luckily, there's an innovative solution to this problem that's become increasingly popular over the past few years—outsourcing your SEO to an Indian firm.

First, what's the same?

The happy answer is: practically everything. Good, ethical, "white hat" SEO strategy can be practiced from anywhere in the world. The keywords that define your business are the same. (Local key words are necessary depending upon the nature of your business, whether it's local, national or worldwide.) SEO standards are the same, too. Google is ubiquitous and the standard-setter for search across Europe, the US, India and beyond.

And what's different?

Cross-continental collaboration:
This one is fairly easy to deal with. Chat, conference calling, vigilant email monitoring and excellent customer service can overcome any communication challenges. When hiring a firm in your country, you will often communicate in the very same way.

Time-shift:
This is a difference but not a problem. Hire an SEO company that will conform to your timetable for deadlines, meetings and other communication.

Cost:
Here you have it—the huge difference between Indian SEO firms and most others in the world. Indian firms make big-boy SEO affordable to small and medium size businesses. These firms help even the playing field between you and the giant brands in your industry.
To achieve the cost advantage an SEO firm in India can offer, look for a company that:

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• Guarantees that they practice only "white hat" above board techniques in line with search engine rules. You'll disappear from search results if unsanctioned tactics are used. Don't ruin your online reputation by getting involved with "black hat" tactics. They may get you excellent traffic for a short period of time but the long term repercussions can cripple your business.
• Has a good track record. Make sure the firm has worked with businesses similar in size and industry to yours. Get references and check them.
• Has a "customer first" orientation. The SEO company should be happy to answer any questions you have. 
• Has excellent communication habits and skills. Are they willing to adjust to your time zone as needed? Are they quick to get back to you? Are there good, clear communicators in general? Sign a short contract---until you're sure the SEO firm is a good fit for your needs.
• Stays current. Search engines evolve constantly. What works today may not tomorrow.
• Assigns a dedicated point person. Make sure you have easy access to company principals as well.
• Offers a one-stop shop. For the very best synergy and coordination between all your SEO, social media marketing and related functions, choose an SEO firm that offers these services. You'll save even more money and time by dealing with one firm.

As you'll notice, most of the selection criteria for an excellent SEO firm are the same whether you're hiring a US company or an Indian consulting firm. Remember, SEO done right is SEO done right. In fact, one India-based SEO firm, eBrandz, explains that their clients "are ranking higher, quicker and with more stability than ever before," even after the most recent Google updates.

Once you determine the SEO services company is knowledgeable, then dedication and performance make the real difference. It's true no matter where in the world you are.

  Nicole

About the Author:

Nicole is a freelance writer who enjoys writing about SEO and Internet Marketing.