It may be confusing to hold onto the concept of search engine optimization (SEO) and Search Engine Marketing (SEM), we ponder the question for a minute, whether there is a difference between the two. Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and Search Engine Marketing (SEM) are complementary, and not independent.
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) increases the number of website visitors by making the website appear high on the search engine results page (SERP). Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is a larger component of the Search Engine Marketing (SEM), it optimizes the website through the use of on-page Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and off-page Search Engine Optimization (SEO). In the industry of Search Engine Optimization (SEO), the search engine algorithm is constantly changing, thus frequent changes are also made with its techniques.
Search Engine Marketing (SEM) is a subset of internet marketing that improves the visibility of the website through advertising and organic search engines. Search Engine Marketing (SEM) includes Search Engine Optimization (SEO) techniques, other than that, it utilizes the use of paid searches. An example of paid searches is Pay per Click (PPC) listings and advertisements.
Many would argue that the organic Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is the best method to use. However, Search Engine Marketing (SEM) will not succeed without the aid of organic Search Engine Optimization (SEO). Moreover, organic Search Engine Optimization (SEO) establish a credible search for a lesser cost than with Search Engine Marketing (SEM) which uses Pay per Click (PPC).
Thus, it is important not to interchange Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and Search Engine Marketing (SEM). A high-quality Search Engine Optimization (SEO) results in a high-quality Search Engine Marketing (SEM).
Evaluate what is best for the specific needs of your website, but make sure to fully understand the basics and differences of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and Search Engine Marketing (SEM).