This is a very common question. SEO (Search Engine Optimization) focuses on improving your website's organic visibility in search results, primarily through on-page and off-page tactics that make your site more appealing to search engines. It's a long-term strategy that takes time to yield results but offers sustainable visibility. SEM (Search Engine Marketing), on the other hand, encompasses paid advertising on search engines, primarily through platforms like Google Ads. It delivers immediate visibility and targeted traffic, but the results stop when you stop paying. The ideal approach is often a combination of both, using SEM for quick wins and brand visibility while building long-term organic presence with SEO.

Unlike SEO, SEM can show results almost instantly. Once your campaigns are live and optimized, you can start seeing increased website traffic and potential leads within days. However, it's important to understand that achieving significant and sustainable results takes ongoing optimization and refinement of your campaigns. It's not just about getting clicks; it's about converting those clicks into meaningful actions for your business.

This varies greatly depending on your industry, competition, target keywords, and desired results. In competitive markets like Sydney or Melbourne, you might need a larger budget to secure top ad positions. It's essential to start with a realistic budget and be prepared to adjust it based on performance data. We always recommend starting with a test budget to gauge the potential ROI and then scaling up strategically as you see positive results.

Key takeaway: The best approach to SEM is to set clear goals, allocate a reasonable budget, and be willing to test and adapt your strategies.