Week 1 MKTG 349: Chapter 1 SEO vs SEM

When you hear someone say "Search Engine Optimization" or "Search Engine Marketing" do you know what the differences are? While the two phrases seem like they can be used interchangeably, there is one distinct difference that sets them apart. One thing to know is that they both talk about online advertising. Online advertising is significantly more traceable so in most cases it is much more effective.

Search Engine Optimization is the process of trying to get your Web site to show up in a better spot on Google without spending any money. This allows you to draw people to your Web site without having to pay anything. Search Engine Marketing is the process of trying to get you Web site to show up in a better spot on Google by spending money. Paid advertising is a solid way to get your Web site viewed.

So why pay for an advertisement when you can do it for free? Some companies swear that you should never give Google any money to display your ads. They believe that doing it free will give them enough views to reach their goal. One thing to remember is that Google is a business so they encourage you to spend money so they make more money. So is it worth the extra money? I think it si beneficial to invest in both SEO and SEM because they both have their benefits. Spending a little bit of money is proven to make you a profit, but going the SEO route will work too.