SEOmoz is a search engine optimization firm in Seattle, and I've recently subscribed to their seo blog. I've been impressed with the firm's openness to publish their pricing on their website, and this latest post Pitching an SEO Client is just one more example of how open they are to share their methodologies and internal thoughts.

Being this open is counter intuitive, because most firms like to keep their modus operandi hidden from competitors. But by publishing this information it provides at least three benefits to SEOmoz; 1) they don't have to deal with clients who aren't within the budget range, because those clients will get scared off by the pricing before they ever contact SEOmoz, 2) they look terribly confident in themselves, which inspires confidence in potential clients, and 3) lesser firms gain confidence from seeing these prices, raise their prices, and that could eventually raise pricing across the entire industry, allowing all SEO firms to make more money. Win win win, you know?

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Comments

"Being this open is counter intuitive, because most firms like to keep their modus operandi hidden from competitors."

I disagree. You seem to undermine your statement as well in your following sentences.

Transparency is the new, better way of doing business for all involved (prospects, clients, competitors, stakeholders, etc.). Companies that accept it stand to do very well. Those that don't can go back to selling used cars or exploiting the ignorant consumer in other shady ways.

Right. What I meant by "counter intuitive" is that most people wouldn't expect a company to be so open, because the status-quo has been to withhold such information.

I would say this has always been the best way to do do business.

It facilitates exchange, and exchange is what creates wealth for all whether it be exchange of info, dollars or something else.

Yes, being open not only demonstrates your knowledge level but it also gives a sense of confidence to your client. The client knows you are comfortable with your pricing in comparison to your skill/knowledge level. Having it open for competition says, "Bring it On" we can take anything you can dish out!

On top of that, this "status-quo" has been mainly maintain by the solo SEO consultant and smaller firms. These small businesses typically suffer from fear. The book "The E-Myth" explains this.

Cheers,

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