marketing matters
OPTIMIZING YOUR ONLINE PRESENCE :
SEO | vs | SEM
In today ’ s digital marketing landscape , the battle for online visibility is intense . Arm yourself with strategic knowledge .
Both SEO ( Search Engine Optimization ) and SEM ( Search Engine Marketing ) are essential to drive traffic to your site and get your business seen . But which one should you prioritize ? Knowing when and how to use these powerful strategies can make all the difference in achieving your business goals .
UNDERSTANDING SEO SEO enhances your website ’ s visibility on search engines without paid promotions . It ’ s all about securing a prime spot in the coveted “ free ” search results . Why does SEO matter ? Consider this : 53 percent of all website traffic begins with an organic search .* SEO ensures that your website appears on the search engine results page , attracting clicks and boosting traffic . * Source : BrightEdge
DECIPHERING SEM SEM supercharges your online visibility through paid advertising , primarily via platforms like Google Ads . Its primary goal is to position your ads prominently in search engine results when users enter specific keywords or phrases . SEM includes various ad formats , from text to display and video ads .
SEO VS . SEM : KEY DIFFERENCES
• TIMEFRAME . SEO is a longterm strategy that nurtures organic visibility and growth over time . SEM typically delivers immediate results , making it ideal for short-term goals and quick wins .
• INVESTMENT . SEO technically falls under the “ free ” category , revolving around ongoing efforts to enhance your website and content . There may be associated costs over time , such as tools or outsourced expert services . SEM requires a dedicated budget for paid advertising , with costs incurred per click or impression .
• CLICK DYNAMICS . SEO generates clicks through organic search results , where users naturally click on your website based on its relevance . SEM drives clicks through paid ads , where you pay for each click generated by your advertisements .
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WHEN TO LEVERAGE SEO SEO is a strategic choice if you ’ re committed to building sustainable online visibility that endures and pays off over time . It doesn ’ t require a hefty initial spend , so it can be more cost-effective for businesses with budget constraints . SEO is also a great way to build trust among your target audience through consistent , valuable content delivery and careful online presence optimization .
WHEN TO HARNESS SEM SEM ’ s ability to drive immediate traffic and visibility makes it an indispensable tool . If you have short-term objectives that demand quick results , like boosting sales for a limitedtime offer , SEM can deliver that rapid impact . It can also help you stand out and capture valuable market share within competitive industries .
COMBINING SEO & SEM True digital marketing magic happens when you combine SEO and SEM to cover both the long-term and immediate needs of your business . By occupying prime real estate in both organic and paid search results , you maximize your brand ’ s presence and attract more potential customers . When users encounter your brand in both organic and paid search results , they ’ re more likely to trust your expertise and convert into loyal customers .
Got Questions ?
The combination of organic and paid search makes up
80 % of all trackable website visits .
Savanna Pruitt is exploreMedia ’ s SEO and Content Manager .
If you have questions about outsourcing some or all of your marketing efforts , the team at exploreMedia can help ! Reach out to shelby @ exploremedia . org to learn more .
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