When you’re looking to hire an SEO agency, one of the most important steps is analyzing their past work. A strong portfolio gives you a clear picture of what the agency can do and whether their style and results align with your goals. Start by looking at the types of clients they’ve worked with. Are they experienced in your niche or with businesses similar to yours in size and scope? An agency that has helped local retailers may not be the best fit if you’re a enterprise software provider.

Next, examine the results they’ve delivered. Look for specific metrics like increases in organic traffic, higher positions for target terms, and rising lead generation. Be cautious of vague claims like "we boosted rankings" without quantifiable data or deadlines. The best portfolios show demonstrable progress over time, ideally with authentic dashboard exports. Pay attention to how long it took to achieve those results. SEO is a sustained strategy, and realistic timelines matter.

Also check the range of projects. A good agency should have experience with various website types—online stores, content hubs, B2B service platforms, and enterprise websites. If all their case studies look the same, they may not be flexible enough for your goals. Look for evidence of on-page optimization, editorial planning, and authority acquisition. A well-rounded skill set suggests a well rounded team.

Don’t forget to read the case studies themselves. A strong portfolio doesn’t just list results—it uncovers the reasoning behind their actions. Did they improve site structure? Improve site speed? Create a content calendar? Understanding their methodology helps you judge whether their practices are white hat and lasting. Avoid agencies that rely on unethical techniques or promise instant rankings.

Finally, reach out to previous customers if possible. Many agencies will share client contacts. Ask those clients about the quality of updates, openness about challenges, and fulfillment of guarantees. Real feedback from people who are the best atlanta seo agencies’ve worked with them can be the most reliable source of truth.

Take your time reviewing the portfolio. A good SEO agency will be confident in their results and happy to answer your questions. If they’re vague or reluctant to share details, that’s a red flag. The right partner will help you grow, not just offer short-term gimmicks.