The SEO buyer’s blog

Everything on hiring, contracting, managing, measuring, and leaving an SEO vendor. Written for the person paying the invoice.

The SEO Vendor Guide

Read up on all the articles you need on hiring, contracts, management, and firing.

SEO Investment
Before you spend a dollar, make sure the numbers actually work for your business. Not every company should be investing in SEO.
Types of SEO
Not all SEO is the same. There are different types, and most businesses need a combination. Figure out which ones fit your business before you talk to a single vendor.
SEO Hiring
Every agency sounds amazing in the sales call. This section shows you how to separate the pitch from the proof and find a vendor who can actually deliver.
SEO Contracts
The contract is where promises become commitments. Or don't. This section makes sure what's on paper actually protects you.
SEO Management
Hiring is step one. This section gives you a system for holding your vendor accountable month after month without needing to understand the technical work.
SEO Performance
Reports are useless if you don't know what to look for. This section shows you what actually matters and how to tell if your investment is paying off.
SEO Exit
Sometimes it's not working. This section shows you how to leave cleanly, protect your assets, and set up your next vendor for success from day one.

17 worksheets and checklists to help you manage your vendor, from running the numbers before you hire to handing over cleanly when you leave.