Many potential clients use search engines to compare different services before making a final decision. By building SEO-optimized pages targeting keywords like “[Your Web Design Business] vs [Competitor]” or comparing different design platforms, you can attract potential clients who are in the consideration stage. This strategy also helps position your business as a trusted option when people search for alternatives or comparisons.
Step 1:
Identify key comparison opportunities
Start by listing your direct competitors. Use Google to search for “[Competitor name] vs [Your Business]” to see if these searches are popular
Use tools like SEMrush, Ahrefs, or Google Keyword Planner to find relevant “vs” or comparison search terms that your potential clients are using
In addition to direct competitor comparisons, consider comparing design platforms (e.g., “WordPress vs Webflow” or “Squarespace vs Custom Web Design”) to showcase your expertise
Step 2:
Create comparison content structure
For each comparison page, structure the content to be informative, honest, and useful. Include sections like:
Overview: Brief introduction of your web design services and your competitor
Features & Services Comparison: A table or detailed breakdown of features you offer compared to the competitor
Pros & Cons: Highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each option, emphasizing why your services may be a better fit for certain clients
Case Studies or Examples: Provide real-life examples of how your services delivered superior results compared to competitors or DIY solutions
Step 3:
Write detailed, unbiased content
While you want to promote your services, it’s important to present an honest and balanced comparison. Potential clients will appreciate transparency, and this builds trust
For example, acknowledge where a competitor might be cheaper or faster, but highlight the long-term benefits or custom solutions that your web design business offers
Include testimonials or case studies that demonstrate how clients benefited from switching to your services
Step 4:
Optimize for SEO
Use the target keyword (e.g., “[Your Business] vs [Competitor]”) in the page title, headers (H1, H2), and meta description
Include related keywords, such as “compare web design services,” “alternatives to [Competitor],” and “[Competitor] comparison.”
Ensure your content is structured for readability, with clear sections and bullet points. Search engines reward easy-to-read pages
Add internal links to your service pages and blog posts to boost overall site authority
Step 5:
Include visual elements
Add comparison tables, charts, or infographics to make the differences between your services and the competitor’s clear and visually appealing
Tools like Canva or Google Sheets can help you create simple comparison charts, showing how your web design services outperform DIY platforms or competing agencies in key areas like customization, support, and performance
Step 6:
Add call-to-action (CTA) buttons strategically
Throughout the page, include CTAs that encourage potential clients to reach out, book a consultation, or view your portfolio
Example: “Interested in a custom web design tailored to your business? Let’s chat!”
Make sure these CTAs feel natural and don’t interrupt the flow of the comparison content
Step 7:
Monitor and refine your pages
Use Google Search Console or tools like Ahrefs to track how your “vs” pages are performing in search results
Monitor metrics like page views, click-through rates (CTR), and bounce rates. If a page is underperforming, consider refining the content, adding more keywords, or improving the layout
Regularly update the comparison pages to reflect new offerings from competitors or changes in your own services
Step 8:
Run paid search ads (optional)
Consider bidding on your competitor’s brand name in Google Ads to target users searching for their services. Direct them to your “vs” pages to provide an alternative and showcase why your services stand out
Example: If a potential client searches for “[Competitor Name] web design,” your ad can appear with a link to a comparison page highlighting the benefits of choosing your business over theirs
Step 9:
Track conversions and adjust your strategy
Set up Google Analytics to track how many visitors convert from these pages. Monitor which “vs” pages generate the most leads or consultations
Use this data to decide whether to create more comparison pages, tweak your existing content, or focus on alternative comparison strategies
Step 10:
Expand to related comparisons
Once you’ve seen success with competitor comparisons, expand to related searches like “DIY vs Professional Web Design” or “Freelancer vs Web Design Agency” to capture potential clients at different stages of the decision-making process
These broader comparisons can also help establish your expertise and authority in the web design space
Author
Chris Harrison
Founder @ Growtique
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