By Michael Fleischner


If you are new to Internet marketing, you may have some questions about the difference among search engine optimization and search engine marketing. These core marketing subjects are very different but share a number of similarities as well.

Let us begin by focusing on search engine optimization also referred to as SEO and comparing SEO to search engine marketing which is referred to as SEM. Both SEO and SEM require a firm understanding of how they work and where they fit in the online marketing mix. SEO requires a strong knowledge of how search engines work and what it takes to achieve top search engine placement. Search Marketing requires a firm understanding about online advertising, keywords, and ROI.

From the outside, both internet marketing methods appear to be very complex. The truth however, is that SEO and SEM are simple to understand. Implementation of best practices is what makes success such a challenge. Search engine optimization is essentially the techniques you use to rank well on major search engines is a direct result of your understanding and application of proven techniques in the area of SEO.

SEM success is based on an understanding of running online marketing campaigns across various advertising networks. The largest networks are Google, Yahoo! and MSN. Each works differently but at the same time, the general premise is the same. You place an online ad that displays when users type in specific keywords that you identify. If a browser clicks on your display ad, you pay a fee regardless of whether or not they convert into a customer.

Search engine optimization is unique and different from search engine marketing because the organic result which appears in search engines is driven from your optimization techniques. These techniques are broken down into on page optimization and off page optimization. On page optimization is closely tied to web site design and off page is more associated with in bound links to your website.

The result is that SEO drives organic traffic. That is to say that after users complete searches on major search engines like Google, the resulting list is based on search engines returning the best result determined by their unique algorithm. When users click on these results you do not pay. Organic search is usually referred to as free traffic.

Search engine marketing differs in that you pay when users take an action. Unlike traditional advertising you do not pay for your ad to display. You do however pay when a browser clicks on your ad. The amount you pay varies on the competitiveness of your keywords and the position in which you want your ad to display.

Anyone doing business online really needs to study and become and expert in both SEO and SEM. These two disciplines drive your online success and can either make or break a legitimate online business. Learn more by subscribing to a blog or reading information online. Each piece of information you add can have a significant impact on your results.




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