Introduction

If you need the best Search Engine Optimization (SEO) service for your business, there are many companies available, which might make you feel overwhelmed. Lensoft has evaluated over 100 agencies to find the top SEO services and agencies available today.

The selection was based on various factors, including pricing, types of SEO services offered, customer service reputation, and their history of providing good ROI. We also considered how well these providers work for different types of businesses. Read our guide to find the best SEO company for your needs and budget.

What Is SEO?

SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, is the process of making your website more visible to search engines like Google. It aims to improve your site’s chances of appearing higher in the search results when people look for products or services related to your business.

Why Is SEO Important?

SEO is essential because it helps attract quality visitors to your website. By optimizing your site for search, you increase the likelihood that people searching for what you offer will find your company and visit your website.

Having a high click-through rate (CTR) means more opportunities to connect with website visitors, leading to potential sales or building relationships with potential customers.

SEO vs. SEM

On the other hand, Search Engine Marketing (SEM) includes both organic methods like SEO and paid strategies, such as pay-per-click ads, to drive traffic to your website through search engines. While SEO is focused on organic search, SEM involves a combination of both organic and paid methods to attract visitors to your site.

How To Choose the Best SEO Service Agency

Choosing the best SEO service involves a few key steps. Here’s a simple guide to help you with the process:

1. Determine Your SEO Goals: Start by identifying what you want to achieve with SEO. Whether it’s increasing website traffic, improving search engine rankings, or boosting sales, having clear goals will help you find the right SEO service that aligns with your objectives.
2. Research and Compare SEO Service Providers: Take the time to research different SEO service providers. Look for companies that have a track record of success and positive reviews from their clients. Compare their services, pricing, and packages to see which one best fits your needs and budget.
3. Discuss Your Needs: Reach out to a few potential SEO service providers and discuss your requirements with them. See how they respond to your needs and if they understand your business goals. A good SEO agency will take the time to understand your business and tailor their approach accordingly.
4. Ask for Client References: Request references from current or past clients of the SEO service providers you are considering. Talking to their clients can give you valuable insights into the quality of their work and the results they deliver.
5. Understand the Services Provided: Inquire about the specific services each SEO provider offers. Some common tasks include website audits, keyword research, competition analysis, and content optimization. Ensure the services they provide align with your SEO goals.
6. Evaluate Communication and Transparency: Good communication is vital in an SEO partnership. Ensure the agency is transparent about their strategies, progress, and results. They should be able to explain their methods in a way that you can understand.
7. Consider Long-Term Strategy: SEO is an ongoing process, not a one-time fix. Look for an agency that offers a long-term strategy and continuous support to improve and maintain your website’s visibility.
8. Avoid Unrealistic Guarantees: Be cautious of SEO service providers who promise unrealistic results in a short period. SEO takes time and effort, and there are no guarantees of immediate top rankings.

Types of SEO Services

There are several types of SEO services available, each targeting different aspects of optimizing your website for search engines. Understanding these types can help you assess and choose the right SEO agency for your needs:

1. On-Page SEO: This type of SEO focuses on optimizing the content and elements within individual web pages. It includes improving headlines, page content, image alt-tags, page titles, and page URLs. Properly adding internal and external links within your content also contributes to on-page SEO.
2. Off-Page SEO: Off-page SEO involves strategies that impact your overall search rankings but are not directly related to the content of a specific page. A crucial off-page SEO service is building high-quality backlinks from authoritative websites to your site.
3. Technical SEO: Technical SEO ensures that search engines can effectively understand and index your website’s content and structure. It involves maintaining an up-to-date XML sitemap, fixing site issues like slow page load times, addressing mobile responsiveness problems, and eliminating duplicate content. Technical SEO also resolves HTTP error codes (e.g., 404 errors) that indicate content is not found.
4. Local SEO: This type of SEO focuses on optimizing your website to rank higher in local search results. A critical aspect is optimizing your Google Business Profile listing to enhance visibility for local customers. Reputable local SEO service providers can help you with this.
5. E-Commerce SEO: E-commerce websites require specific optimization techniques to improve site traffic and enhance sales conversion metrics. SEO agencies specializing in e-commerce can assist in tailoring strategies to suit online stores’ unique needs.
6. Voice SEO: Voice search is becoming increasingly popular, and voice SEO targets the optimization of content for voice-based queries. It involves adapting to the conversational language used in voice searches, especially beneficial for local businesses serving urgent needs.

Understanding these various types of SEO services will equip you with valuable knowledge when evaluating and selecting the right SEO agency that best suits your website’s requirements and objectives.

Portfolios and Results

When assessing SEO service providers, it’s essential to examine their client portfolio and case studies showcasing their achievements for other clients. Look for evidence of successful outcomes in improving search rankings and website visibility. Pay attention to whether the SEO service has experience in specific industries or target audiences and if their typical clients are similar in size to your business.

Additionally, try to get a realistic understanding of the potential results they can achieve for your website based on their past performance with other clients. Consider the time it may take for the new SEO efforts to yield visible results. In general, a reputable SEO agency should start showing positive progress within 60 to 90 days after implementing their strategies. However, keep in mind that achieving significant impacts may require more time, possibly around 120 days or longer.

Remember, the SEO landscape is competitive, and consistent effort is necessary for sustainable results. When working with a strong SEO agency, they will provide transparency and realistic expectations about the timeline for seeing improvements in search engine rankings and organic traffic.

White Hat SEO and Black Hat SEO

Ethics play a significant role in the world of SEO, and there are two main approaches: White Hat SEO and Black Hat SEO.

White Hat SEO: This approach follows search engine best practices and guidelines to improve a website’s search visibility. All tactics used in White Hat SEO are approved by search engines, particularly Google, and are considered ethical and legitimate. Websites that adhere to White Hat SEO tactics focus on creating high-quality content, providing a good user experience, and obtaining backlinks through organic and natural means.

Black Hat SEO: In contrast, Black Hat SEO employs manipulative and deceptive methods to achieve higher search rankings. These tactics are not approved by search engines and violate their guidelines. While Black Hat SEO may offer short-term gains in search visibility, it can lead to severe penalties, including a drop in traffic or even permanent banning from search engines.

Examples of Black Hat SEO tactics include:

1. Keyword stuffing: Excessively using keywords unnaturally in content to manipulate search rankings.
2. Link spam: Placing irrelevant or low-quality links on various websites to artificially boost link popularity.
3. Link exchanges: Swapping links with other sites solely for the purpose of manipulating search rankings.
4. Hidden text or links: Placing text or links that are invisible to users but visible to search engines to deceive the algorithms.
5. Buying backlinks: Purchasing links from websites solely for the purpose of improving search rankings.
6. Sneaky redirects: Redirecting users to different pages than what they clicked on, in an attempt to deceive search engines.

It is crucial to vet SEO vendors carefully to ensure they only use ethical White Hat SEO tactics. Engaging in Black Hat SEO can lead to severe consequences for your website’s rankings and reputation, while White Hat SEO promotes sustainable and long-term growth, following search engine guidelines to provide valuable and relevant content to users.

Customer Service and Reviews

Receiving exceptional customer service from your chosen SEO partner is crucial for a successful collaboration. To assess the reputation and service quality of an SEO provider, consider the following steps:

1. Online Reviews: Search for reviews written by real customers about the SEO agency. These reviews can provide valuable insights into the experiences of others who have worked with the company. Focus on reputable review platforms to get a well-rounded understanding of their reputation.
2. Google Business Profile: If you are dealing with a local business, check out their customer reviews on their Google Business Profile page. This can give you an idea of how satisfied their local customers have been with their services.
3. Professional Network: Reach out to your professional network and inquire if anyone has worked with the specific SEO agency you are considering. Getting feedback from people you trust can provide valuable firsthand information.
4. Customer References: Don’t hesitate to ask the SEO agency directly for customer references. Speaking directly with current or past clients can help you gain deeper insights into the level of service and results they received.

A combination of online reviews, personal recommendations, and direct communication with the SEO agency’s clients will help you make an informed decision about their customer service quality and reliability. Remember that exceptional customer service from your SEO partner can greatly contribute to the success of your SEO efforts and overall online presence.

SEO Service Essentials

SEO service essentials encompass the core services that an SEO provider should offer to effectively optimize your website for search engines. Here are the key essentials:

1. SEO Audits: A comprehensive evaluation of your website’s on-page, off-page, and technical SEO elements to identify areas for improvement and optimization.
2. Keyword Research: Identifying relevant and high-traffic keywords related to your business to optimize content and improve search rankings.
3. Link Building Services: Building quality backlinks from high-authority websites to enhance your website’s credibility and trustworthiness.
4. Competition Analysis: Understanding your main search competitors, their strategies, and keywords they rank for to develop effective SEO strategies.
5. Website Reputation Management Services: Managing and improving your online reputation through positive reviews, social media, and public relations initiatives.
6. Optimized Content Development Services: Creating SEO-friendly content, such as blog posts, videos, and website copy, to target relevant keywords and attract organic traffic.

Having these essential services in your SEO package will contribute significantly to improving your website’s search visibility, driving organic traffic, and achieving better rankings on search engine results pages. When choosing an SEO service provider, ensure they offer these critical components to effectively optimize your website and achieve your SEO goals.

How Much Do SEO Services Cost in Kenya?

SEO service pricing typically follows two main models: project-based or monthly retainer-based. For project-based pricing, you may pay an upfront fee for an initial SEO audit and optimization of your existing site. On the other hand, monthly retainer-based pricing involves entering into a contract for ongoing SEO support over a longer period, usually several months or even annually, as SEO efforts require time to produce results.

For small businesses, the cost of SEO services can range from Ksh 50,000 to Ksh 300,000 or more per month. The total cost depends on various factors, including the level of online competition in your industry, the number of pages that need optimization, the current state of your website’s SEO, and the specific SEO service provider you choose.

SEO agencies may present you with multiple service options, each with tiered pricing based on the level of service provided. Before signing any contract, make sure you are clear on the deliverables and understand what services you will receive for the price. It’s also essential to evaluate the hourly rate to ensure it is reasonable, with an average rate typically ranging from Ksh 7,500 to Ksh 10,000 per hour.

Top 10 SEO Agencies In Kenya

1. Lensoft

Lensoft is a leading SEO agency in Kenya, renowned for its expertise, innovative strategies, and commitment to client success. With a team of experienced SEO professionals, Lensoft employs ethical and data-driven approaches to optimize websites for improved visibility and search engine rankings. They offer comprehensive SEO solutions, including keyword research, on-page optimization, link building, and content strategy, ensuring their clients’ websites thrive in the highly competitive online landscape.

2. Akus Digital Solution

Akus Digital Solution is a reputable SEO agency that has made significant strides in the Kenyan market. With a focus on delivering measurable results, they employ a blend of technical expertise and creative strategies to enhance their clients’ online presence. Akus Digital Solution offers a range of SEO services, including website audits, competitor analysis, SEO copywriting, and local SEO optimization, tailored to the unique needs of businesses in Kenya.

3. Tabala Digital Solutions

Tabala Digital Solutions is a trusted SEO agency with a strong track record of helping businesses achieve their digital marketing goals. Their team of SEO specialists combines technical proficiency with industry insights to develop customized SEO strategies. Tabala Digital Solutions offers services such as website optimization, content marketing, social media integration, and SEO analytics, enabling businesses to stay ahead of the curve and achieve sustainable growth.\

4. Agency Africa

Agency Africa is a results-driven SEO agency that understands the intricacies of the Kenyan market. Their holistic approach to SEO encompasses technical optimization, content creation, link building, and online reputation management. Agency Africa aims to provide businesses with enhanced online visibility, increased organic traffic, and improved conversion rates, all while aligning with Google’s best practices.

5. Global Desarts Media

Global Desarts Media is a prominent digital marketing agency that offers comprehensive SEO services to businesses in Kenya. With a deep understanding of local market dynamics, they craft SEO strategies that resonate with the target audience. Global Desarts Media focuses on on-page and off-page optimization, keyword research, SEO audits, and content optimization to drive organic growth and increase brand visibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I do SEO myself?

Yes, you can definitely do SEO yourself if you are willing to invest time and effort in learning and implementing the necessary strategies. SEO involves various aspects, such as keyword research, link building, technical SEO, on-page SEO, and off-page SEO.

To get started, you can explore numerous online tutorials, articles, and guides that provide valuable information on SEO techniques and best practices. There are also online courses and resources available that can help you build your SEO knowledge.

Here are some steps to begin your journey in DIY SEO:

1. Educate Yourself: Start by understanding the basics of SEO, including how search engines work, keyword research, and on-page optimization techniques.
2. Keyword Research: Learn how to identify relevant keywords related to your business and industry. Utilize keyword research tools to find high-traffic and low-competition keywords.
3. On-Page SEO: Familiarize yourself with on-page optimization techniques like optimizing meta tags, headings, URLs, and content for target keywords.
4. Technical SEO: Learn about technical aspects like XML sitemaps, website speed optimization, mobile responsiveness, and addressing crawl errors.
5. Off-Page SEO: Explore strategies for building high-quality backlinks and improving your website’s authority through reputable link building methods.
6. Stay Updated: SEO is constantly evolving, so stay updated with the latest trends and algorithm changes from search engines.
7. Implement and Monitor: As you apply SEO strategies to your website, closely monitor the results and make adjustments as needed.

Doing SEO yourself can be rewarding and cost-effective, especially for smaller websites and businesses. However, keep in mind that SEO is a long-term process, and results may take time to materialize. If you have the resources and prefer to focus on other aspects of your business, hiring a professional SEO service might be a viable option.

2. What are the best SEO services?

The optimal solution will be determined by your individual requirements. Based on our research, Lensoft appears to be the most comprehensive SEO service provider for small businesses. If you need a full-service SEO and search engine marketing (SEM) agency, Hostraha might be a suitable choice. For local SEO, Lineserve is highly recommended, while Lunar Agency excels in e-commerce SEO.

3. How do I choose keywords for SEO?

Choosing keywords for SEO involves selecting relevant terms that your target audience uses in their search queries. It is crucial to focus on specific keywords that align with your content and are likely to be searched by your ideal audience.

To achieve the best results, aim for keywords with high search traffic volumes and relatively low keyword difficulty. However, it’s important to note that finding such keywords can be challenging. Conduct thorough keyword research using tools and resources available to identify the most appropriate and effective keywords for your SEO strategies.

4. Do blogs improve SEO?

Yes, blogs can enhance your website’s SEO by increasing its visibility in search engine results. By adding blog content to your website, you provide valuable information that people search for using platforms like Google and other search engines. Having more optimized content on your website, targeted to a diverse range of relevant keywords, boosts your chances of attracting higher organic traffic from search queries. Blogs play a significant role in improving your website’s overall SEO performance.

5. What are backlinks in SEO?

Backlinks in SEO refer to links from other websites that direct users to a page on your website. These links are also known as inbound links. When reputable websites link to your content, it signals to search engines like Google that your content is reliable and trustworthy. High-quality backlinks are among the various factors that Google takes into account when determining the ranking of your website in search engine results pages.

6. How long does SEO take?

The time it takes to see results from SEO can vary depending on several factors. In general, you can expect to see initial results within 60 to 90 days of implementing SEO strategies. However, significant results may take 120 days or longer to become noticeable.

SEO is an ongoing process rather than a one-time task. As new content is continuously added to the internet, the competitive landscape changes, and search patterns evolve. Therefore, having a consistent and ongoing SEO strategy is crucial to adapt to emerging competition and optimize your website’s visibility in search results over time.

Remember that SEO is a long-term investment, and the timeline for results may differ based on the competitiveness of your industry, the quality of your SEO efforts, and the size of your website. Patience and persistence are essential in achieving sustainable and positive results from SEO.

Conclusion

Selecting the right SEO agency is of utmost importance for businesses in Kenya looking to establish a strong online presence. Among the top SEO agencies, Lensoft stands out as a prominent choice.

We conducted extensive research, gathering thousands of data points from over a hundred SEO service providers to compile a list of the best SEO services available.

In the evaluation process, we considered the depth and breadth of SEO services offered by each agency. This included aspects such as keyword research, on-page and off-page SEO, competitor analysis, technical audits, link-building, and search-optimized content development services.

Additionally, we went through hundreds of online reviews from real customers to assess the reputation of SEO service providers. Key factors taken into account were their responsiveness, technical expertise, quality control, project management, progress tracking, reporting, and success in achieving significant ROI for clients.