SEO (or Search Engine Optimization) and SEM (or Search Engine Marketing) are two very similarly sounding terms, with really important differences. A great digital marketing campaign will use both, so it’s extremely important to recognize the differences in each. We’ll start with SEM.
SEM – Search Engine Marketing
Search Engine Marketing is the traditional way to advertise your content in a search engine, by buying ads based on relevant searches. These ads are generally the first results you’ll find when you search a topic, and the price of these ad’s vary based on keywords. The most prominent search engine platform for hosting ads is Google AdWords.
SEO – Search Engine Optimization
Search Engine Optimization is getting digital publicity through organic search. SEO is really important, as it defines how your brand will stand compared to competitors when a potential customer searches. Ways of optimizing include, creating properly formatted urls, optimizing meta data, and creating well written page copy.
Hi Craig, I think you did a wonderful job highlighting the importance of SEO and SEM. As you mentioned, both are crucial for a successful integrated communications campaign, but there is a huge difference between and what they can do to impact the success of your site. If you had to choose between the two, which one would you pick?