SEO vs Social Media Marketing

The two most popular strategies in digital marketing are SEO (Search Engine Optimization) and Social Media Marketing (SMM). Both approaches have their own disadvantages and advantages and both create online traffic to flow to a company website.

SEO, the method of moving a business or product website to the top of a Google search list through the publication of linked articles casts a wide net over-generalised internet traffic whereas social media marketing spells a more bespoke targeted form of fishing for clicks and interactions within targeted communities.

Both SEO and SMM strategies, when used skilfully in tandem, can create a symbiotic relationship in Australia and across the world.       

SEO

SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, is a strategy aimed at improving a website’s visibility on search engines like Google. The core elements of SEO include research and identifying relevant keywords before writing and publishing content. SEO management in Sydney will help research the relevant keywords and landing websites required for a successful SEO campaign. While some entrepreneurs and businesses may try to tackle SEO independently, this marketing is best deployed by a professional digital media marketing team.  

Social Media Marketing

Social Media Marketing, on the other hand, uses the power of Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X to reach and engage with a target audience. Many companies handle social media marketing in-house. Each platform requires a different approach. Although brand awareness is the ultimate expected outcome direct sales approaches are generally frowned upon. For the purpose of this article, we will not include Facebook advertising or direct sales approaches on social media and instead use SMM to cover Facebook pages and groups, X posts, and YouTube content that focuses on building subscriptions rather than broadcasting infomercials or direct advertising. Content creation should have an original voice to be able to stand out in a saturated marketplace.   

Similarity in Goal

Both SEO and social media marketing contribute to a brand’s online presence. While SEO is a more subtle “behind the curtain” approach SMM is a direct link to the customer base. Their objectives share the same outcome – to drive traffic to a point of purchase. Social media marketing focuses on building brand awareness and driving traffic through social media platforms. Both methods require traffic to flow in the same direction – a user-friendly home website. The site should be easy and clear to navigate and should have a “call to action” facility and the digital infrastructure for customers to commit to a purchase, booking, or subscription.      

Timeframe.

SEO is a long-term investment, and results may take time to manifest. In contrast, social media marketing sees more immediate results when it comes to building brand awareness and engaging with an audience.

Cost-Effectiveness

While SEO is a sustained investment that pays off over time, social media marketing can provide quicker returns, making it an attractive option for businesses looking for immediate results, such as increased website traffic or sales.