Let’s talk about a bit of a trap we see all too often—companies selling SEO with a lot of flashy promises but zero real strategy. SEO is powerful, don’t get me wrong, but without a solid plan behind it, it’s kind of like buying a gym membership but never actually working out. You get no real results, and a lot of money goes down the drain.

The "Guaranteed Results" Myth

The first red flag? Companies that “guarantee” results within a specific timeframe. Look, there are a lot of moving parts in SEO—competitor activity, search engine updates, and changes in user behavior, to name a few. Anyone guaranteeing top results in a couple of weeks is either overselling or cutting corners (or both). True SEO is a marathon, not a sprint, and it should be approached with realistic expectations.

"Just Throw in Some Keywords" Approach

A lot of so-called “SEO experts” think SEO starts and ends with keywords. Sure, keywords matter, but it’s not just about stuffing them into a page and calling it a day. Without quality content and a user-friendly experience, keywords alone won’t get you anywhere. Great SEO is a blend of on-page optimization, good content, user experience, and a solid technical foundation. It’s about creating an entire ecosystem that search engines recognize as valuable for users.

Cheap "One-Size-Fits-All" Packages

Beware of companies that push one-size-fits-all packages with promises to fix every SEO issue under the sun. True SEO requires a custom approach. Every business is unique, with different goals, audiences, and competitive landscapes. A generic package often lacks the strategic tailoring that’s essential for real, sustainable growth. It may be cheaper upfront, but in the long run, it’s unlikely to get you the results you’re looking for.

Lack of Transparency

Good SEO agencies should keep you in the loop with what they’re doing and why. They should be transparent about their tactics, the tools they’re using, and the results they’re seeing. If an agency is being vague or avoiding your questions, that’s a big red flag. A solid SEO partner will provide clear explanations and show you exactly how their work aligns with your business goals.

Quick Fixes That Cause Long-Term Problems

Be cautious of quick-fix tactics like excessive backlinking or keyword stuffing. These tactics might deliver temporary gains, but search engines are getting smarter every day. If you’re not following best practices, you’ll eventually be penalized, setting you back further than where you started. Real SEO focuses on building your website’s authority naturally and sustainably.

What to Look for Instead

A reputable SEO agency will:

Conduct a Full Site Audit – They’ll take the time to get a lay of the land and understand your site’s strengths and weaknesses.
Define Clear, Measurable Goals – They won’t just promise “more traffic.” They’ll set specific objectives, like increasing leads or improving engagement.
Have a Comprehensive Strategy – They’ll focus on content, technical SEO, user experience, and off-page tactics. They won’t just focus on one element.
Be Transparent About Results – They’ll regularly share updates, analytics, and recommendations so you know what’s working and what needs tweaking.

Bottom Line

At the end of the day, SEO is about creating long-term value for your business. When done right, it’s one of the most impactful digital strategies out there. But if someone’s promising big results with no strategy behind it, it’s a good idea to take a step back and ask questions.

Remember, a good SEO plan is a partnership. If you’re ever curious or want to chat about what a solid SEO strategy actually looks like, feel free to reach out. Wayne Media’s here to help you navigate the noise and find real, measurable growth.

Choose the Right SEO Partner