Are you wondering how search engine marketing (SEM) can benefit your small business? Perhaps you’re not even sure what SEM is.
If either of these is true, we can help. Below is a simple list that clarifies the indispensable benefits of using SEM for business. There’s also a brief definition of what search marketing is, what it includes, and how it differs from SEO.
Find all the answers to your questions with this quick, easy-to-understand guide on SEM for small businesses.
What Is Search Engine Marketing?
Search engine marketing is exactly what it sounds like: advertising via a search engine. It includes both paid and unpaid efforts. As long as the main goal is to convert search engine users into customers, it counts as SEM.
Two of the most common examples of SEM strategy are pay-per-click (PPC) search ads and SEO.
PPC Search Ads
These are ads that look like relevant search results and are displayed at the very top of the search engine results page (SERP). However, they display under a label that says, “Ad,” or “Sponsored Result.
Still, they look and function like a true top-ranking search result. That is, this ad will be seen more than any of the other, organic search results. It will get plenty of clicks, too.
SEO
SEO is defined as any effort to boost your organic search rate, that is, to rank higher on the SERPs. This includes using popular search keywords in your blog content and optimizing page setup for a better user experience.
These efforts help you rank higher on SERPs, which can lead to more traffic, which can then convert into paying customers. Thus, SEO is a vital component of your overall SEM strategy.
Why Is Search Engine Marketing Important?
The benefits of search engine marketing are of crucial importance to the success (and profit) of your website. Here are a few examples.
It’s Relevant
Unlike other types of advertising, SEM advertises to people who are already looking for you. That is, they are searching for answers that only a website like yours can answer. The biggest benefit of SEM is exposing your brand to the most relevant audience there is.
Get More Local Customers
This is especially important for local businesses. When people in your local area are searching for a business that can help them, you want your brand at the top of the list.
It’s Cheap
SEM is also a lot cheaper than most types of advertising. Every business can afford it, regardless of their budget. Some SEM strategies are even free, like SEO.
Traffic
You can’t convert web traffic into customers unless you have traffic in the first place. SEM attracts a constant flow of traffic to your website.
Get Started With Search Engine Marketing Now
Don’t let your small business miss out on these benefits. Get started on your search engine marketing strategy now.
Also, we have more great advertising advice where this came from. Next, read our guide on how to create a small business marketing strategy.