For years, people have been trying to figure out how Google’s search algorithm works. We call them SEOs.

The main task of an SEO is to make them search engine friendly so that they are more visible on the Internet.

But with the growing numbers of self-proclaimed gurus in the industry how do you ensure your best interest when hiring an SEO?

Truth be told – while there has been an explosion of “digital experts” in the recent time, most don’t have a general idea of how Google crawls and evaluates your content.

The Biggest Red Flag

So, there is no way, anyone can guarantee a #1 Google Ranking. So anytime you see an freelancer or an agency promising you the top spot on Google, be weary.

A lot of times, these are used as a click baits to get them their attention so that they can pitch you a more realistic result once they become familiar with your business niche.

I mean the market is flooded with “experts” and “gurus” guaranteeing the first spot so much that if you flaunt a more realistic deliverable, you’ll be mistaken for a novice.

So, there’s the biggest red flag in the SEO industry – if someone is fixated on giving you the number 1 spot on SERP, RUNNN…..

Ask the Right Questions

Credit where’s due – what these SEOs can do is they can rank certain page of yours for some absurd keywords.

If unfortunately you are in the receiving end of this report, you need to ask one question – how is this useful to me or my business?

This is where user intent kicks in. User’s search intent often gets overlooked between keywords volume and difficulty but if you ask me, its the most important thing.

For instance, if you’re a Kathmandu-based local bakery trying to rank for “best chocolate cake recipe” — sure, you might get a lot of traffic.

But the intent behind that search is likely to be someone looking to bake a cake, not someone looking to order it from your bakery.

Imagine getting thousands of visitors to your site, but none of them are ready to make a purchase from your site. That’s your money being wasted in the name of SEO.

A surge in traffic is good, but unless you are a blog or a magazine betting on earning through Google ads or local bidding, it will be of no use.

Sometimes SEO Isn’t the Answer

A while ago, I had this conversation with someone that owns a smartwatch online store where after learning about his business model I advised against investing for SEO.

The reason – he really did not need it. He was able to close purchases solely through Meta ads and he was quite happy with it, especially the Return of Investment (ROI).

And that was really my point, SEO doesn’t offer return as high and as early as ads. And for a lot of business owners I come across in Nepal, the metric, ROI, is the most important.

So I end up declining these leads. And yes, this is coming from someone who does SEO for living.

SEO is the Answer if…

So do you really need SEO? There’s only one that can answer this for you – YOU. Me? I can only guide you.

Ask this to yourself, does online reputation of your brand/product matter to you?

If yes, then you need to hire an SEO.

If you want to build lasting trust and be discovered organically—then bringing an SEO on board makes sense.

SEO vs Performance Marketing (Ads)

With performance marketing, you can get people to your site, but it is actually you actively dragging them to your store.

In contrast, with SEO, your store will organically show up when people search for related watches on Google. You don’t need to run ads over and again.

Constantly showing up on Google for relates search queries has another advantage, it builds up online trust and brand reputation.

Personally, I don’t like being shoved down ads based on my interest. (Sorry my friend, that’s creepy). What I like instead is being led to naturally.

Ads are great for impulse purchase, which I think rely on user’s naivety and I’m not that fond of that.

If you still need an SEO….

If you’ve read this far and still believe SEO is the answer you’re looking for your business, then maybe I can help.

• 15-Minute Traffic Tune-Up Call: We’ll pinpoint your biggest growth blocker.
• 30-Day SEO Audit: A clear, actionable roadmap for sustainable visibility.
• Custom Organic Growth Plan: Tailored to your industry, budget, and goals.

Drop me a line at [email protected], or grab time on my calendar here.

At the end of the day, SEO is just one pathway to growth—but it’s a path I’ve walked (and helped many others walk) time and again. If you’re ready to invest in sustainable visibility and real, measurable results, let’s talk.

I’m Sanjeev, your partner in organic growth. Talk soon!