If you’re looking to expand your business into the vast lands of China, you’re going to need a search engine marketing agency to help you! Is that a tough task: definitely not. There are plenty of SEM companies that would be willing to help. But how does one differentiate one from another? What are the factors to keep in mind while looking for the most ideal search engine marketing agency in China for you?

Before we dive into that, keep in mind that Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is basically comprised of three activities:

• Create content
• Build high-quality links
• Analyze results and make necessary changes
• SEM- building on SEO techniques by using paid advertising

Why Even Hire A Search Engine Marketing Agency?

Navigating the new, murky waters of keywords and search engine marketing is no piece of cake: it could be the deciding factor to determine whether you succeed or fail! Instead of taking the risk and responsibility solely on yourself, it’s best you hire a good SEM agency that will help you fight the battle. Keep in mind that there’s no shame in hiring an agency to do this work for you: in fact, SEM can become extremely overwhelming to those unaware of its many intricacies.

However, this means you will need to keep certain things in mind while looking out for the most ideal search engine marketing agency in China! In this article, we will steer clear of the obvious questions you need to ask before hiring them and focus on the key factors one often forgets!

1. Keep Your Eye on the Objective

It is very easy to lose focus from your goals. Before even considering hiring an SEM agency in China that caters to your needs, you must define these “needs” specifically. Take a look at your goals, and define them; once you have defined the required results, ensure the agencies offer strategies that are similar to your goals.

2. Do Your Research

Needless to say, as soon as the offers come pouring in, do a thorough background check. Take a deep dive into the history of the agency’s work, the clients they’ve worked with, and relevant testimonials. Find out if they have a defined track record of success (vis-a-vis) search engine marketing! Don’t forget to ask them for case studies- throw that in the list and then evaluate.

3. Agency Ranking in Google

The best part about choosing a Search Engine Marketing agency in China is that it’s all about SEM- therefore, this is the opportune moment for you to find out if they are capable enough to put their money where their mouth is! If it does not possess a decent Google ranking, you’ll know that there is only little truth to their success stories.

4. Ask for Referrals

A common mistake many companies make is that they believe the agency blindly. You cannot solely rely on the information given out by them, even if it is accurate information. But since there are various resources available for you to use (such as customer referrals, testimonials, etc.), you can ensure they truly deliver.

5. How They Quantify Success

Some SEM agencies in China consider a successful campaign to be based on the number of clicks or solely on the Return on Investment! You’ll want to ensure that improvements in the ranking are not the only way they measure success. In fact, more efficient ways to quantify success are increasing website traffic, conversion rates and leads!

And more importantly, find out if their notion of success stands parallely with yours! Remember the first point listed out: keep your eye on the objective! Remember this goal and understand what the SEM agency is ready to deliver. You’d be surprised how many companies end up finding out the SEM agencies focused on matters, not on the client’s top priority.

6. Their Communication Channels & Overall Transparency

A search engine marketing agency in China that is willing to share their strategies with you openly might be a good sign: one that is transparent in their ways. While you’re at it, take a peek at their keyword list as well! Always remember that a reputable agency doesn’t have anything to hide. But this isn’t the only important matter; also, ensure the communication efforts made by the agency are proofread thoroughly: this includes the web pages, social media channels, and email!