Search Engine Marketing (SEM)

The term search engine marketing (SEM) originated in 2001 and was developed in an effort to provide an all inclusive phrase to reflect the newly adopted approach to internet marketing. The referencing of search engine marketing encompasses a large range of internet marketing activities that are focused on the legitimate attraction of search engine spiders and associated referral traffic to a given website. SEM practices have now become a core part of any successful online marketing campaign.

Search engine marketing or SEM refers to a wide range of criteria which includes, but is not limited to, best practices in keyword research and identification, keyword rich copywriting, directory submissions, pay per click campaign management, and other Web 2.0 activities such as social networks, video search, forums, and blogs.

SEM efforts are adopted by organizations of all sizes from start ups and small businesses to multinational corporations. Regardless of a company’s revenue potential or geographical presence, if the organization needs to attract visitors to the company’s website, strong focus on search engine marketing is imperative.