Common Bad Habits of Website Agencies
What to Avoid When Choosing a Partner"
14th November 2024
Expensive Hidden Costs: Hosting and Domain Fees
One of the most common bad habits that website agencies fall into is the practice of hiding extra costs related to hosting and domain fees. While agencies may quote an initial price for building your website, they may fail to make it clear that additional costs will accumulate after the project is completed. Hosting fees, for instance, are often charged annually, but agencies sometimes neglect to mention this upfront, leaving clients surprised by unexpected costs later on. Similarly, domain registration and renewal fees can also add to the total price. While these costs might seem small on their own, when combined, they can lead to significant ongoing expenses. To avoid this, ensure that you understand the full scope of pricing before entering into a contract. A trustworthy agency should be transparent about all associated costs, including any ongoing fees for hosting, domain maintenance, and security services.
Lying About SEO Speed and Performance
SEO is a crucial element of any website’s success, but one common bad habit agencies have is overpromising results, particularly when it comes to speed and performance. Some agencies may promise instant SEO results, claiming they can rank your website on the first page of Google within days or weeks. The reality is, SEO is a long-term strategy that requires consistent effort, content creation, link-building, and optimisation. It’s impossible to achieve sustainable results overnight. Agencies that promise quick fixes for SEO are likely using black-hat tactics, which can result in penalties and long-term damage to your website's reputation. A reputable agency will provide realistic expectations and set a clear timeline for achieving SEO milestones. They will also educate you on the importance of creating quality content and the role SEO plays in increasing organic traffic over time.
Overpromising Features and Capabilities
Another bad habit that many agencies fall into is overpromising website features or capabilities that may not be feasible for your project’s scope, timeline, or budget. For example, an agency may assure you that they can implement complex custom features, integrations, or e-commerce capabilities, only to later deliver a version that falls short of your expectations. This could lead to delays in the project, additional costs, or functionality issues down the line. A good agency should be able to assess your project needs accurately and recommend the right features based on your business goals. Instead of making promises, they should provide clear, achievable milestones and offer realistic solutions that match your budget and timeline. Make sure to communicate your requirements clearly, and ask for a breakdown of what’s included in the project scope to avoid any misunderstandings.
Conclusion: Choose an Agency You Can Trust
When choosing a website agency, it's essential to avoid those that fall into these common bad habits. Hidden costs, unrealistic SEO promises, and overpromising features can lead to frustration, unexpected expenses, and disappointing results. To ensure a smooth collaboration, be sure to work with an agency that values transparency, honesty, and clear communication. Take the time to read contracts thoroughly, ask questions about hidden fees, and set realistic expectations for SEO and project timelines. A trustworthy agency will be your partner in achieving long-term success with your website, not just someone delivering a quick fix. Choose an agency that prioritizes your business goals and is dedicated to delivering quality work.