I’m often asked by business owners if they should invest in Search Engine Marketing or Social Media. The easy answer is BOTH! But as a search guy, I think search engine marketing is probably more important for getting leads and customers. Social Media has its place and can be used effectively to brand your business and create loyalty. But for most small/medium business owners, the all-important first step to internet marketing is being found when prospects go looking for your products and services. Search engines are where people are looking, not usually social media sites. Sure, you might ask your facebook friends to recommend a local dentist, but if you’re searching for a new car or someone to paint your home, Google is most likely your first stop.
Look, I’m a big fan of facebook and twitter, and I even recommend Google+. But for cold hard sales, I don’t think you can beat showing up on the first page of Big G.
When you have that in order – either via search engine optimization or pay per click advertising, then you should start taking social media more seriously. There’s a lot to be said for branding and customer loyalty.
This video infographic will give you some ideas of why both internet marketing channels are so important.
Thanks for reading.
David
