Differences Between SEO and SEM

Based on the results we obtained from the feedback we received from our customers, we realized that the concepts of SEO and SEM were mixed. Hence, you will clear the confusion by explaining the difference between these two concepts.

The concepts of SEO and SEM, which are seen as similar to each other, are actually different services. Looking at its functions, it is seen that it is used for different purposes. So what is SEO, what is SEM? Before mentioning the difference between the concepts, we thought it appropriate to briefly mention the definitions.

What is SEO?

SEO is known as search engine optimization. It covers the work done in order for websites to appear at the top of the search engine. It is possible to provide users with a better site experience and to attract visitors from other sites with the work done inside and outside the site.

What is SEM?

SEM, which is the abbreviation of English Search engine marketing words, is search engine marketing. It covers the work of advertising through the search engine. Google Ads is a good example of this. It is important because it allows people who want to buy services or products to see the site directly when they search.

What are the Differences Between SEO and SEM?

Persistence: In SEM studies, the duration of your ad in the search engine varies in direct proportion to your budget. Competition between companies may also cause the advertisement not to appear or not to appear in the top row. In SEO studies, every step taken correctly ensures permanence.

Speed: When SEM studies and SEO are compared in terms of speed, the effect of SEM is seen more quickly. You can see the reports of the returns obtained from the advertisements within 1 day. You can apply corrections by intervening immediately on ads that have little effect. It will take time to get results from SEO work. Depending on the work done, you may have to wait up to 1 month.

Cost: The cost of SEM studies is more costly than SEO studies. Because the click cost per selected keywords in SEM. This value also varies based on other advertisers’ bids. In SEO studies, the cost is determined in advance. There is no such thing as an increase in costs during the studies.

Click-through Rate: As a result of SEM studies, when your site is in the first place in the search results, it will be written that there is an advertisement under it. Many of the users prefer not to click on the advertisements, considering that they have commercial purposes. As a result of SEO studies, your site will appear in organic results. Users will find these results more reliable and will tend to click. When the click-through rates of SEO and SEM are compared, it can be said that SEO is more successful.

Content Quality: The content produced in SEO is of higher quality than SEM. The reason for this is that there is no hurry in SEO studies and it is the main goal to produce user-friendly content.

Coming on the First Page: SEM studies are not guaranteed to appear on the first page. In fact, this is clearly stated in Google’s advertising policies. In SEO studies, it is possible to guarantee the first page by using the right techniques. After appearing on the first page, efforts should be made to preserve the order.

Awareness: Since SEM will be done completely in proportion to your budget, it is unlikely that you will advertise for a long time. This will cause your awareness to be lost in mind. As SEO works consist of both on-site and off-site works, the arrangements made will improve your ranking. This increases the awareness of your brand.

SEO or SEM?

If you are undecided about which one to choose between SEO and SEM, we can recommend you to choose SEO studies. In the long run, these efforts will yield higher returns to your site. However, the effect of SEM in marketing studies should not be ignored.

As DCA Network, we carry out effective improvement and marketing studies specific to your site. You can contact us for more information about SEO and SEM studies.