Yes indeed, it's a complete shark tank out there and you are very wise to troll for recommendations.

I have worked with many SEO/SEM/IM etc. marketing firms and free-lancers of the past 15 years, and I find that even after thoroughly interviewing them on their methods and practices, even the ones who pass muster sometimes are a let down.

The number ONE issue I have with online marketing folks is with trying to stuff real live merchants into "Bronze", "Silver" & "Gold" boxes. Every business is different and needs to have marketing strategies tailored to their needs, demographic and budget.

I suspect that part of the slimy residue of distaste I have for the overwhelming majority of this service industry is also that it naturally attracts the "used car salesmen" of the internet universe.

With all of that being said, I do have someone that I would not be embarrassed to refer you to. I've known him well for about a decade, and he is the one exemplar of honesty and integrity I have ever experienced in this cesspool of an industry. Please PM me, and I will provide more information. My intention is not to promote, but you caught my attention with your post here.