SEO vs SEM

We get a lot of inquiries asking for help with SEO. 

Problem is, we don’t do SEO at ParaCore! We’re SEM experts.

Not sure what the difference is between search engine optimization (SEO) and search engine marketing (SEM)?

Let’s find out!

In this screenshot, you’ll see a generic search for plumbers in Phoenix. 

At the top here, you can see these three local service ads that are Google guaranteed. That means that the technicians, plumbers, electricians, or whoever’s going into your home have undergone a background check by Google. They also pull in the reviews. 

Now we keep scrolling:

These are paid advertisements. When you’re running a search in Google, paid advertisements will always be at the top of the page. 

That is search engine marketing! Search engine marketing is paying to be in the top position on Google. 

Now, if you keep scrolling down, you’re into the organic listings. 

This is the search engine optimization world. Here, you’re buying your way up the list with keywords. 

But if even you’re ranked number one on Google for plumbers in Phoenix? Your listing won’t be seen until you start scrolling down past all the SEM, even if your website is fully optimized. 

And getting to that number one spot just below the search field? It’s almost impossible through SEO.

Keep in mind that you’re competing with Yelp, HomeAdvisor, Angie’s List, Yellow Pages, and more companies that have been around for a very long time and have very high positioning and organic SEO rate as a result. 

Still, people often turn away from SEM marketing and focus on SEO because it’s ‘free.’ 

But is it? You’re paying someone to optimize your website. You’re paying people to create content. So, don’t be misled by thinking that organic is free! 

If you are starting a new business, I recommend that you start with some paid to get some activity. You can certainly do organic, but it just takes a very long time.

Have any questions on SEO, SEM, or other marketing acronyms? Reach out to us!