Jan
18
This article is part of my ongoing series at 2 Guys Consulting exploring search engine positioning, online marketing, and website design. Visit the 2 Guys Consulting website or blog for additional resources. -Bryan
I last spoke about several tips for getting your website ranked higher on the major search engines (Google, Yahoo, and MSN/Live). Since then I have received quite a few questions asking me about the differences between Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and Search Engine Marketing (SEM). The two processes aim for the same end goal – more relevant and qualified traffic – but use very different means.
Search Engine Optimization is the use of techniques that make your website more search engine “friendly.” Adding titles, inserting appropriate content, link building, and uniqueness are all applications of SEO. When you optimize your website for the search engines you ensure that Google, Yahoo, and the other engines can “spider” (or browse) your web pages quickly and easily. SEO is an on going process, but typically is done during redesigns or during a large project. You do not pay the search engines to become optimized (although you may hire someone to optimize your site). You pay a larger sum once and receive the benefits for an extended period of time.
On the other side, Search Engine Marketing, or SEM, is usually defined as the utilization of the major search engines “Paid” or “Sponsored” listings. We have all seen the links on the top and right side of Google’s results – those positions were auctioned by interested companies. To use SEM you must first have an account at the search engine. Then, using their tools you will select the keywords you want your links (or “ads”) to be displayed for. Most SEM campaigns require you to pay a certain amount each time someone clicks on your Sponsored link. A lot of work goes into maintaining a competitive campaign. With Search Engine Marketing you pay individually for each visitor.
So, which is better? To be honest, neither. A truly successful website marketing campaign will include both SEO and SEM techniques. Use Search Engine Marketing for quick, short-term growth; and use SEO for long-term growth. The combination of these two solutions will provide long-lasting traffic and, if implemented correctly, highly qualified (willing to buy!) visitors.
There are some great online resources for learning about Search Engine Optimization and Marketing. Visit SEO Chat or Google’s Search Engine Optimization Starter Guide help pages for details regarding SEO implementation and tips. Each of the major search engines run their own SEM tools (Google’s AdWords, Yahoo’s Small Business SEM, and MSN’s adCenter); check out their unique tips and requirements.
Of course, it takes a lot of time (and money) to learn the extensive techniques available to increase your Search Engine Placement. If you have any questions or comments contact 2 Guys Consulting (515-257-8670), a leading Optimization and Web Marketing firm in Des Moines, Iowa.
Bottom line: Search Engine Optimization and Search Engine Marketing are two separate, but equally important solutions for attracting more customers to your website. Use both if you can – and don’t be afraid of asking for help!
Original Source: www.2GuysOnline.com/blog-TechNotes-Bryan-11.htm
Interesting post. Will take a note of this.
I was browsing through the Internet a few days back to check out for article submission service providers and came across seo traffic spider. I have used their service and found it the best so far. They communicate promptly with their clients and do a perfect job and meet requirements. I thought this information may be helpful for those looking our for professional SEO services and this would save them the time to research on the best and affordable service providers.
Glad you used my site to advertise your business….
If you are in need of Search Engine Optimization services I highly suggest going local. If you’re in Iowa give me a ring at 2 Guys Consulting.