SEO vs Google Ads: Which One Fits Your Business?

Choosing between SEO and Google Ads can be tough for small businesses. Both have their pros and cons, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer. However, there are a few things to keep in mind that can help you make the best decision for your business.

First, consider your budget. SEO can be a relatively inexpensive way to improve your search ranking, but it can take time to see results. Google Ads, on the other hand, are a more immediate way to get traffic to your site, but they can be more expensive.

Second, think about your goals. If you’re looking to build long-term brand awareness, SEO may be a better choice. If you’re looking for immediate sales or leads, Google Ads may be a better option.

Finally, consider your audience. If your target market is more likely to search for your products or services online, then SEO may be a better investment. If they’re more likely to see your ad while they’re browsing the web or using Google Maps, then Google Ads may be a better choice. 

Ultimately, the best decision will come down to what’s right for your business and your budget. We’ll go over everything you need to know about SEO vs Google Ads, including how to use them both to achieve your digital marketing objectives.

• What Exactly Is SEO (Search Engine Optimisation)?
• What Exactly Are Google Ads?
• What Is the Difference Between SEO vs Google Ads?
• Advantages and Disadvantages of SEO
• Advantages and Disadvantages of Google Ads
• Is Google Ads the Best for Lead Generation?

What Exactly Is SEO (Search Engine Optimisation)?

SEO, which stands for “search engine optimisation,” refers to a set of techniques, strategies, and best practices that help a website rank as high as possible on relevant SERPs (search engine results pages). Most search engine users barely glance at the majority of the results returned by a specific search query. A whopping 54.4% of clicks go directly to the top three results, and only a small percentage of search engine users look past page two.

SEO assists you in accomplishing this through techniques such as:

1. Content promotion
2. Keyword investigation
3. Creating backlinks

Although best SEO practices evolve and change over time as Google updates its algorithm, some recent examples include:

1. Making content easy to skim, read, and digest by using simple, accessible language and organised formatting.
2. Including relevant keywords and key phrases throughout a website, such as written content, metadata, URLs, and image tags.
3. Producing clear, engaging, and helpful content that addresses the needs and concerns of search engine users consistently.

What Exactly Are Google Ads?

Modern digital marketers have many pay-per-click (PPC) advertising options, but Google Ads is by far the most well-known and popular. The Google Ads user, like other PPC platforms, pays for their advertising by the click or the impression. The cost per click varies and is determined by a bidding process for keywords.

Although Google Ads do not replace the need for search engine optimisation, they do provide several distinct advantages. These are some examples:

1. Ad distribution is robust across other Google-owned platforms, such as YouTube and Blogger.
2. Users who are primed and ready to convert can be reached quickly and easily.
3. The ability to tailor individual ad campaigns based on budget.
4. Detailed analytics to assist advertisers in optimising campaigns and improving future efforts.

What Is the Difference Between SEO vs Google Ads?

Comparing SEO and Google Ads is a difficult task because, while they serve similar functions, they are very different. It’s like attempting to compare apples to oranges! SEO is a long-term marketing strategy that is necessary for developing a loyal audience and a reliable customer network.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of some of the key differences:

1. SEO strategies can take weeks or months to produce tangible results, whereas Google Ads can provide near-instantaneous bursts of traffic.
2. SEO strategies work best when they target a smaller set of keywords and long-tail key phrases at a time, whereas Google Ads has no hard limits on the number you can target.
3. Google Ads is all-around paid to advertise, whereas SEO is about ongoing work, maintenance, and improvement.
4. Google Ads can be turned on and off at will as a marketing tool, whereas SEO provides consistent organic results over time.

Consider Google Ads a way to promote time-sensitive events, advertise specific products, and provide a quick influx of traffic as needed. In contrast, SEO is about playing the long game, establishing long-term authority and a devoted audience that will stick with your brand indefinitely.

Advantages and Disadvantages of SEO

SEO is a long-term strategy that can take months or even years to produce results. However, it is generally more affordable than Google Ads and can be more effective in the long run. Once you rank highly in search engine results pages, you will continue to get organic traffic without having to pay for it.

The downside of SEO is that it requires time and patience – results are not guaranteed, and you may never achieve a top ranking. However, SEO is generally a more sustainable and cost-effective option in the long run, so it may be worth considering if you’re patient enough to wait for results. In addition, SEO is a relatively passive form of marketing.

If you have the time and patience to invest in SEO, it can be an extremely effective way to build your brand and drive traffic to your website.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Google Ads

While SEO is a long-term strategy that can take months or even years to produce results, Google Ads can deliver immediate traffic to your website. However, this comes at a price, as Google Ads can be costly and time-consuming to manage. Google Ads require a more hands-on approach.

Google AdWords, on the other hand, is a much quicker way to get your website seen by potential customers. You can create an ad campaign and start seeing results almost immediately. The downside of Google AdWords is that it can be expensive, and you will only continue to appear in search results if you keep paying for your ads.

However, if you need quick results or are working with a limited budget, Google AdWords may be the better option. Once you stop paying, your ads will disappear and your traffic will drop off sharply.

SEO vs Google Ads: What Is the Most Suitable Option Right Now?

So, which is the better option for small businesses? There is no easy answer, as it depends on several factors such as budget, time frame, and business goals. Ultimately, the best approach for your business will depend on your specific needs and goals.

For small businesses looking to generate leads, Google Ads can be a great option. Google is the most popular search engine, so businesses that appear at the top of the search results are more likely to get noticed. Additionally, Google AdWords allows businesses to target their ads specifically to customers who are interested in what they have to offer.

Businesses can also use Google AdWords to track how many people click on their ads and how many people convert into leads. Overall, Google AdWords is a powerful lead-generation tool that can be very effective for small businesses.

Contact SOMS for Expert Guidance on Google Ads Perth

If you’re looking for expert guidance on Google Ads Perth, look no further than SOMS. We have a team of experienced professionals who can help you to get the most out of your Google AdWords campaigns. We can help you to create effective ad campaigns that target your customers effectively and deliver results.

We also offer a range of other digital marketing services, so if you’re looking for a one-stop shop for all your digital marketing needs, then SOMS is a perfect choice. Contact us today to find out more about our services and how we can help you to grow your business online.