Search Engine Marketing | What is SEM?

So you're looking to get into the digital world of Search Engine Marketing, or as I like to call it, the secret sauce to getting eyeballs on your website. Master the art of SEM. Let's get the SEO ball rolling on your business website!

Unraveling the Power of SEM

So, SEM is like the cool kid on the block that everyone wants to hang out with. It's all about getting your website seen on search engines, and that's gold for boosting leads and sales. You've got two main heroes in the SEM saga – SEO (Search Engine Optimization) and paid advertising in the form of PPC (Pay-Per-Click) Ads.

The Two Pillars of SEM

SEO (Search Engine Optimization)

SEO, you've probably heard the term before. It's about tweaking your website by creating content that is relevant to specific keywords you have identified so search engines like Google say, "Hey, this site is pretty cool, I'll send my users there." From choosing the right keywords to optimizing your content, SEO is the backbone of organic visibility.

Paid Advertising

Where SEO is an organic process Paid Advertising is more of a brute force approach – it gives you a boost when you need it. Platforms like Google Ads and social media ads put your business in front of potential customers pronto. It's like putting up a billboard in the digital high street.

Leveraging SEM for WordPress Websites

Now, you might be wondering, "How does this SEM stuff work for my WordPress website?" Well, worry not, WordPress lovers. Our favourite platform plays pretty well with SEM strategies. You've got plugins and tools to make your life easier – it's like having your own personal web assistant.

DIY Tips and Tricks for SEM Success

Keyword Research

Alright, let’s talk keywords. It’s like being a mind reader – figuring out what your customers are typing into Google. Use tools like Google Keyword Planner to find those golden words that can skyrocket your visibility.

On-Page SEO Optimization

Ever walked into a shop, and everything's just in the right place? That's what on-page SEO does for your website. Tweak your titles, body copy, and headers to be focussed on both primary and semantic keywords and clearly signpost to google what the content of your site is about. Also ensure it is nice for real humans to read, share your knowledge and show both your users and search engines why you should be top choice!

Setting Up Google Ads

Now, let’s dive into the world of paid advertising. Google Ads is your ticket to the VIP section of search results. Craft killer ad copy, choose the right keywords, target your ideal users, set a budget and watch your business shine like a beacon in the digital night.

Monitoring and Analytics

Remember the feeling of acing a test? That's what it's like when you monitor your SEM efforts. Free tools like Google Search Console, and paid services such as SEMRush, and AHRefs give you the lowdown on how your website is performing. Keep an eye on traffic and your competitors data to see what’s working, and tweak accordingly.

Real-World Examples

Alright, let me hit you with a tale from the trenches. Our e-commerce client previously invested heavily in Google Ads, but knew as soon as they stopped paying google, their website traffic would drop off a cliff. We suggested that investing in organic on-page SEO services would be a more sustainable way to reach new customers and have a lasting effect. Over a 12 month period their organic search traffic increased by 70% and we landed them a bunch of page 1 position 1 rankings for relevant keywords.

Use SEM as a way to get your business found

In the grand scheme of things, SEM is your digital amplifier. It takes your website and cranks up the volume, making sure your business is heard in the vast online crowd. So, whether you're a local bakery or an corporate powerhouse, SEM is the stage where you can shine.

Ready to get your website party started? Explore the world of SEM and see your business climb the digital charts. Check out our SEM and WordPress Website Development services and let’s turn your website into a digital sensation. SEM, my friends, it's your time to shine!