The difference between SEO (Search Engine Optimization) and SEM (Search Engine Marketing) is how they generate visibility in search engines and whether they involve paid advertising.

SEO (Search Engine Optimization)

Definition: The process of optimizing your website to rank organically (unpaid) in search engine results.

• Focus: Long-term, organic traffic.

• Tactics:

  • Keyword research

  • On-page optimization (title tags, meta descriptions, headers, content)

  • Technical SEO (site speed, mobile-friendliness, crawlability)

  • Link building

  • Content marketing

• Cost: Usually time or labor-intensive, but no direct cost per click.

SEM (Search Engine Marketing)

Definition: A broader strategy that includes paid search advertising (e.g., Google Ads) to increase visibility in search engines.

• Focus: Immediate visibility through paid ads.

• Tactics:

  • PPC (Pay-Per-Click) campaigns

  • Bidding on keywords

  • Ad copywriting

  • Landing page optimization

  • Tracking ROI and conversions

• Cost: You pay per click or impression on ads.

Learn more about our Search Engine Optimization (SEO) services and our SEM (Search Engine Marketing) or Digital Advertising services.

We specialize in designing and developing custom websites for small and medium sized business.  We have experience using a variety of platforms, but primarily design and develop WordPress websites to leverage the SEO (Search Engine Optimization) and other benefits of that platform.

Our goal is always to listen to you and provide a solution that fits your needs and budget, and become your website partner.

Get started today to make your online presence stand out from the crowd.