Who are the best ones to deal with that are cost effecient have a good ROI? Ones that will help you develop search engine friendly content, develop back links and most of all get good ranking for keywords desired.
bigmacholmes, I would stick to the ones that SEOMOZ recommends. Unless you have really difficult keywords that you are trying to rank for, you could do it yourself if you do enough research. Read SEObook and the beginner's guide to SEO from SEOMOZ, and you should be able to learn as you go...and save a TON of money. I have used an SEO company before that I would caution you to avoid....email me for the company name...
Bigmacholmes, its really about chemistry. Hire a firm that fits with you. Big budget, hire a big firm. Small budget, hire a small fire. Targeting a niche, hire a firm that's good at managing niches.
Sandanista, I don't post for ulterior reasons and we're all just earning a crust. Do you have other motives for your recommendations? What makes SEOmoz such source of definitive advice?
Icheb, I've read their blog. Its ok. Among many others. But what makes them the definitive source of recommendations? Its about horses for courses. Hire a firm suitable for your requirements.
No one said they are the ULTIMATE SEO COMPANY. Someone recommended SEOmoz' list and many people happen to agree with him. Take it as that or leave it.
yeah i think it's a matter of opinion because i know there are some seo consultants that can't really do anything. I still think buying links are the best seo results.